'I NEVER THOUGHT I'D BE A MODEL AT 45!'

MARTINE MCCUTCHEON ON STRIVING TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF HERSELF AND HOW CHANGING CAREERS IN HER FORTIES IS THE BEST THING SHE'S DONE

- VICKI POWER

Martine McCutcheon has much to celebrate in 2022. Alongside her 10 years of marriage to 37-year-old singer Jack McManus, the former EastEnders and Love Actually star has just launched a modelling career after being signed by the prestigious Elite model agency, which has represented supermodels Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell. And we can see why – a glance at Martine’s Instagram page confirms that she’s practically glowing.

Over the past decade, Martine has suffered a number of hidden illnesses that have been tough to deal with, including chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. But she has found ways to manage her health, which has given her the energy to chase both her dreams and her seven-year-old “miracle baby” Rafferty, who was conceived despite fertility issues.

Here, Martine, 45, talks about her eating regime, cold showers and the secret behind her youthful looks...

Congratulations on landing a modelling contract! How did that come about?

During lockdown, I just started to share more of my home and outfits. Something that helped me, mentally and physically, get through another day of this pandemic was to show up for myself and get dressed and put my make-up on. Then people online were like, “She’s wearing this, she’s wearing that,” and asking where I got the rugs in my living room from. And then Elite got in touch and said, “We love your style and we would love to sign you.” I couldn’t believe it. I was so flattered and over the moon. My 13-year-old self nearly died and went to heaven.

What have you done so far?