I'm turning the anger into positive energy

His best friend's death has made Gok Wan rethink life

- SHELLEY SPADONI

Chatting to Gok Wan, it’s not hard to see why he’s one of our most beloved TV personalities. The fashion guru, DJ and presenter, 50, wears his heart on his sleeve – and whether it’s a fun anecdote or a sad story, you know he’ll speak from the heart.

This time, the subject is a tough one. In May, Gok lost his best friend, Allison Gordon Parry, who had lived with stage 4 breast cancer for many years. As he talks about it, he wipes away a tear and apologises for being “so bloody emotional”. But it’s testament to the special bond between two people who adored each other.

Gok admits he’s so angry that cancer took Ali before her time. Now he’s turning his heartache into a positive with the upcoming release of charity single Deeper Love (A Tribute To Allison), with all profits going to Macmillan Cancer Support.

Here, he opens up about grief, turning 50 and why his beloved Ali will always be by his side…

Gok, how are you doing?

Losing family members when they’re old is sad, but it’s different to losing someone before their time. It’s unexpected and it’s made me evaluate mortality. But it also fired something up in me. I’m probably naughtier, more outrageous and louder than ever. But I’m utterly heartbroken I’ve lost her. I tear up thinking about her. I still talk to her.

What was Ali like?