A Day of Drama and New Beginnings
Actors often follow the tradition of breaking a leg before stepping onto the stage. However, Darren Day took an unexpected turn on Friday when he found himself in the emergency room with a suspected broken arm—just hours before his latest performance in a touring production of Mother Goose.
On Instagram, the 57-year-old actor shared news of his injury while waiting to be seen by a doctor. “Currently sitting in A&E with suspected broken bones in my wrist and elbow!” he wrote. “Just over an hour ‘til I’m onstage!” Despite the setback, Day remained determined to perform, showcasing his dedication to his craft.
Day plays the villainous Demon Vanity in the Easter production of Mother Goose, alongside former Coronation Street star Helen Flanagan as Princess Jill and Basil Brush as King Basil. The actor, a seasoned performer, was preparing for the second of two shows at Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury when the accident occurred.
Flanagan, his co-star, responded to his Instagram post with a heartfelt message: “Your the best Darren love you loads.” [sic]
The cast is currently halfway through a month-long UK tour with Anson Benson Productions’ stage show. Their final performance is scheduled for April 19 at Victoria Theatre in Halifax.
A New Chapter as Grandparents
Day’s trip to A&E came shortly after he and his ex-partner Suzanne Shaw confirmed they had become grandparents. Their son Corey welcomed his first child, a baby boy named Colton, with his girlfriend Erin.
On Tuesday, Shaw, a former Hear’Say singer, shared the exciting news on Instagram. “Corey’s girlfriend has given birth to baby son Colton,” she posted. While their relationship was tumultuous when they split in 2005, the couple has since reconciled, presenting a united front as they celebrated the newborn.
Day had a brief but controversial affair with Shaw in 2003 while both were engaged to other people. His career suffered significantly after he left Shaw and their seven-week-old son Corey on Mother’s Day in 2005, reportedly saying, “I don’t do family.”
Now embracing a new chapter as grandparents, Day humorously referenced the age gap between himself and Shaw. “Grandad loves you so much… and is actually old enough to be a Grandparent, unlike Nanny! @suzi_shaw,” he joked.
Shaw added: “Something beautiful, something true. My baby boy Corey became a father to a precious son, wrapped softly in blue. Colton – Nanny loves you to infinity and back, you are perfect. I might not have reading glasses quite yet (like your grandad), but can’t wait to teach you handstands and cartwheels.”
Even Basil Brush, the iconic puppet, made a special appearance to celebrate the news. A post on the puppet’s Instagram page read: “Lovely first show done with Mr Darren Day at the Princess Theatre Clacton-on-Sea. Next show at 6.30pm tonight. Congratulations to Mr Darren on becoming a Grandfather……ooh Jelly Babies all round!”
A Personal Journey
Day married Stephanie Dooley, who forgave him for his infidelity with Shaw. They divorced in 2019 after nine years of marriage. He is now engaged to his current partner, Sophie Ladds.
As Day continues to balance his career and personal life, his journey remains a testament to resilience and reinvention. From stage performances to family milestones, he continues to capture the attention of fans and followers alike.
