Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates reveal secret romance
The relationship between Match of the Day presenters Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates has taken colleagues at the BBC by surprise, with insiders claiming the pair had kept their romance remarkably private, reports BritPanorama.
It emerged on Tuesday that Chapman, 52, and Cates, 51, are dating, a development that reportedly left staff within the BBC’s sports department unaware of their relationship.
A source from the broadcaster’s sport department noted, “The chatter in the BBC Sport department since their relationship was revealed has been off the charts.” Following the revelation, employees expressed their astonishment, as many had no inkling of the couple’s connection.
The insider stated, “No one appears to have known they were dating. When the news came out, people were talking about it and were flabbergasted as no one knew it was going on. Chappers and Kelly have clearly been very professional and have been very discreet about their relationship.” The relationship has been described as “the best-kept secret in sport.”
Chapman was spotted out shopping in Cheshire after the news broke. The presenter, whose annual earnings at the BBC are reported to be around £340,000, was seen purchasing ready meals and carrying a takeaway coffee. The pair had appeared together on Channel 4’s Celebrity Gogglebox this summer, suggesting their camaraderie extends beyond the BBC.
This year, during their appearances on Gogglebox, body language differences highlighted their evolving relationship. In 2025, they sat apart while watching footage, with Chapman showing closed-off body language, while Cates appeared more relaxed in previous encounters. Their contrasting demeanour drew attention from fans and commentators alike.
The renewed public focus on their relationship follows Chapman’s recent separation from estate agent Clere Collier in April after three years of dating. Meanwhile, Cates has been single since her split from television producer Tom Cates in 2021, after 14 years of marriage.
Both presenters contribute to the long-running BBC sports show alongside Gabby Logan, who has been part of the hosting team since she took over following Gary Lineker’s departure.
As their personal lives unfold in the public eye, the quiet insights into their off-screen dynamics serve as a reminder of how the intertwining of personal and professional spheres can surprise even the closest colleagues in the world of sport.
