After enduring a difficult period, Kate Garraway has found herself in the midst of criticism due to her new relationship. The Good Morning Britain host recently went public with financial journalist Liam Halligan, whom she started dating earlier this year. However, Kate, 59, has faced backlash from some individuals following the death of her late husband Derek Draper in January 2024.
A source revealed, “The negative comments have been distressing for Kate. She went through immense heartache with Derek, and now she has found someone who is truly supportive and caring towards her. She simply hoped for others to share in her happiness – believing that she is deserving of some joy after all this time.”
The backlash surfaced when Kate publicly acknowledged her new relationship with Liam, 57, by posting a photo of them together at a friend’s birthday celebration. Despite knowing each other for over two decades, some have raised doubts about Kate’s decision to re-enter the dating scene two and a half years after losing Derek to a prolonged battle with Covid.
Among the hurtful comments, one individual suggested, “Guess she needs the cash again since she’s run out of things to say about her late hubby.” Another critic accused her of exploiting Derek’s illness in ITV documentaries and now exploiting her new relationship. A third comment read, “At least we know what her next self-centered documentary will be about. How much attention can one woman need, for goodness’ sake?”
Discussing the impact of the online abuse, the source added, “Kate tries to avoid reading such hurtful comments, but she is puzzled by the hostility. She has been open about her relationship with Liam, and while it’s still early days, everyone close to her believes she deserves a chance at happiness. It deeply upsets her that some individuals cannot allow her to embrace something positive in her life.”
Fortunately, Kate, who hosts a mid-morning show on Smooth Radio, has received support from others who have condemned the abuse and shown approval for her new romance. One supporter defended her by saying, “She does not deserve this. She has endured a harrowing experience – I’m glad she has found a new partner.” Another supporter urged, “Give the poor woman a break. She has been through enough. She stood by her husband as she watched him slowly deteriorate over the years and dealt with the financial burden of keeping him alive. I believe she has the right to live her life to the fullest.” Another individual suggested that Derek would want her to find happiness.
Confirming her relationship with Liam at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May, Kate mentioned, “It’s delightful. We haven’t had the chance for a proper date yet.” She humorously shared Liam’s eagerness to go out more frequently now that their relationship is public. At the TRIC Awards in June, Kate expressed, “It’s still early days, but it has been a wonderful year.”
In May, the mother of two was photographed with Liam in Paris after he completed a 300km tandem bike ride to the city. They also recently traveled to Italy together. Liam mentioned in an interview, “I have known Kate for many years, and we have grown closer recently. We share laughter and enjoy each other’s company.”
He continued, “For various reasons in recent years, we both found ourselves single against our wishes. In recent weeks and months, Kate and I have