Tricia Penrose, known for her iconic role as Gina Ward on ITV’s Heartbeat, has just revealed she’s engaged—only a few years after splitting from her husband of nearly two decades.
The 55-year-old actress took to social media with a glowing announcement, showing off a dazzling diamond ring as she smiled beside her partner Chris during a romantic dinner. “My lovely Chris has proposed on our 7-year anniversary! Off to Tenerife now with my lovely fiancé to celebrate – what a lovely surprise,” she wrote.
Dressed in a chic blue shirt and signature glasses, Tricia leaned into her partner with pride, flashing the ring that marked a fresh chapter in her love story. The pair looked overjoyed as they embraced for the sweet selfie, and followers were quick to shower them with congratulations.
One fan gushed, “What fabulous news! I’m beyond thrilled for you both!” Another added, “Beautiful Tricia – congratulations, and you’re looking fabulous.”
The engagement marks a new beginning for Tricia, who ended her 18-year marriage to TV presenter Mark Simpkin in 2021. The couple share two sons, Jake, 21, and Freddy, 16. An insider at the time said they had “grown apart” and decided to separate amicably.
Remarkably, Tricia found love again just two weeks after the split. She introduced Chris to her Instagram followers later that year, posting a cosy photo from a date night with the caption: “Lovely night with my gorgeous fella.”
Now, with a ring on her finger and a holiday in the sun, it seems Tricia is ready to begin a joyful new chapter.
