Last Updated on 21 April, 2025 by Nike Carkarel
You’ve probably caught yourself wondering—how is Kate Garraway really doing these days?
After everything she’s endured with her late husband, Derek Draper, it’s only natural to feel invested in her journey. And now that 2025 has rolled in with whispers of a new boyfriend, it’s no surprise the curiosity is buzzing.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or just admire her resilience, this isn’t about idle gossip. It’s about hoping someone who’s been through so much might finally get a chance at something joyful. So grab a cuppa, and let’s catch up on what’s new with Kate Garraway—especially when it comes to matters of the heart.
Kate Garraway New Boyfriend
Who’s the New Guy?
Word on the street is that Kelby Blackwell might be the new man in Kate’s life. He’s not a celebrity, not a media regular—just someone who friends describe as kind, grounded, and quietly supportive. Honestly? That kind of energy feels like the exact right fit for Kate.
There are no official couple photos, and nothing’s been confirmed publicly (which, knowing Kate, isn’t surprising at all). She’s always protected her private life, especially when it comes to her kids, Darcey and Billy.
But there’s more…
What About Louis Church?
Another name floating around? Louis Church—a younger, somewhat low-profile figure that’s caught the eye of the rumor mill. But again, there’s no hard proof. No red carpets. No loved-up selfies on Instagram. Just speculation, and a lot of it.
Kate, as always, is keeping her cards close to her chest.
And that’s part of what people love about her—she’s never rushed into the spotlight for the sake of headlines. After Derek, it’s clear she’s taking her time—and rightly so.
How’s Kate Holding Up After Derek?
Let’s take a second to reflect.
Kate’s marriage to Derek Draper spanned nearly 20 years. He wasn’t just her husband—he was her partner through every storm. His long battle with COVID complications turned their lives upside down, and she stood by his side through every heartbreaking twist.
When Derek passed away in January 2024, the loss wasn’t just personal—it was public. And yet, Kate handled it with a grace that left many in awe.
She later opened up in her raw and emotional documentary, Kate Garraway: Derek’s Story, giving viewers a glimpse into the pain, love, and courage it took to survive those years.
So if there’s talk of a new man in her life now, it’s not about “moving on.” It’s about letting a little light back in. A sign that maybe—just maybe—she’s finding her way toward new joy.
What’s the Deal with Ben Hawkins?
Let’s address another name making the rounds: Ben Hawkins.
Now, before you mix him up with the gardener linked to Alison Hammond—different Ben. This particular Ben Hawkins has been connected to Kate since late last year, though no one seems to know much about him.
Is he real? Is he “the one”? Is he just a friend?
Well, Kate’s not saying. Which means everything out there is pure speculation for now. But if you’ve ever had a friend go through heartbreak, you know how much it means to see them smile again—even if they don’t want to shout it from the rooftops just yet.
Kate’s Emotional Journey: Not Just About Romance
Kate’s been open about the complicated emotions that come with grief. She’s said it’s not a straight path—it’s tangled, unpredictable, and sometimes bittersweet.
She’s spoken about the guilt of smiling again, the fear of forgetting, and the strength it takes to keep living when your world has changed. So if there is someone new in her life, it’s not about “replacing Derek.” It’s about allowing herself the space to feel alive again.
Think of it this way: Kate’s not erasing her past. She’s just turning a new page—one that’s still being written.
How Much Is Kate Garraway in Debt?
This part’s tough to hear, but it’s real.
Kate Garraway has been incredibly honest about the financial strain her late husband Derek Draper’s care placed on her family. In her ITV documentary Kate Garraway: Derek’s Story, she revealed that Derek’s care costs reached £4,000 per week (about £16,000 per month)—more than she earned through her ITV salary.
“I have an incredible job that I love, which is well-paid, but it’s not enough,” she shared candidly in the documentary.
— Sky News, March 2024
To stay afloat, Kate had to dip into her pension, and despite working full-time, she was left with debt reportedly between £500,000 and £800,000, according to several media outlets.
- The Independent confirms the financial burden in coverage of the ITV documentary.
- GB News reports the full debt range and the collapse of Draper’s psychotherapy company.
It’s a gut-wrenching reality—and one that underscores why so many fans and fellow Brits are rooting for Kate, not just emotionally, but practically too.
Why Has Kate Garraway Sold Her House?
There’s talk that Kate might’ve sold, or is planning to sell, the home she once shared with Derek. The house had been modified with medical equipment, hoists, ramps—you name it.
Now, those same memories may feel too heavy. Selling could be both a financial and emotional reset. Nothing confirmed yet, but given her situation, it would make perfect sense.
Does Kate Have a New Partner?
Here’s the truth: we still don’t know.
She hasn’t made any public declaration. No swooning Instagram posts. But the whispers continue—Kelby, Louis, Ben. Whether they’re real or just hopeful thinking, only Kate knows for sure.
What’s clear is she’s not rushing into anything. Her kids, her work, her own healing—all come first. But wouldn’t it be lovely if someone was walking quietly beside her, cheering her on?
Is Kate Garraway Still a Smoker?
Funny you should ask.
Kate’s mentioned smoking in the past—lightheartedly, as something she once snuck in. No recent updates, but it’s one of those charming, very real things about her. Picture her outside the ITV studios, lost in thought with a coffee and a quiet puff. She’s always felt refreshingly down-to-earth.
How Much Does Kate Garraway Earn?
Kate’s salary has long been a topic of curiosity.
While she hasn’t shared exact numbers, most estimates place her annual earnings around £500,000 from Good Morning Britain, Smooth Radio, and other media work. And yet—even that wasn’t enough to fully cover the cost of Derek’s care.
Again, it puts things in perspective, doesn’t it?
What’s Next for Kate?
Kate isn’t slowing down.
She’s back on GMB, sharing laughs with Ben Shephard, planning time with her kids, and teasing more documentaries. A book might be on the horizon, too. And maybe—just maybe—there’s someone new quietly walking beside her through it all.
To me, Kate’s like a tightrope walker—carefully balancing hope and heartbreak. And the best part? She’s doing it with authenticity and grace.
Final Thoughts
Kate Garraway’s story is one many of us have followed with full hearts. From the deep love she shared with Derek Draper, to the strength she’s shown since his passing, Kate is living proof that grief and growth can go hand in hand.
Whether or not there’s a new man in her life, she’s showing us what resilience looks like—messy, beautiful, and completely real.
So the next time you see her on your screen, give her a little mental applause. She’s still standing, still smiling, and still moving forward. And honestly? That’s everything.
Author Bio (Nike Carkarel)
Nike Carkarel is a tech writer from the UK and the founder of TechyApple.co.uk. He writes easy-to-understand content about smart technology and automation. With a background in computer science, Nike enjoys helping readers stay updated on the latest in industrial and consumer tech.
