Martine McCutcheon, the beloved former EastEnders star, turned heads on Wednesday while enjoying a sun-soaked getaway in Marbella. The 48-year-old actress showcased her toned physique in a glamorous one-shoulder swimsuit adorned with a vibrant floral print, posing effortlessly in a sun lounger with stylish tortoiseshell sunglasses.
McCutcheon has been making the most of the summer holidays with her nine-year-old son, Rafferty. The duo were spotted larking about in a swimming pool, capturing their fun-filled moments with a selfie. "In the pool with my little water baby!" she captioned the Instagram post, adding, "I love our little cuddles and gamesâ¦. Nothing else fuels me like Rafferty does."
The actress, who married singer-songwriter Jack McManus in 2012, has been open about the challenges they have faced as a couple. In December 2016, she revealed on Loose Women that her friends had "saved" her marriage during difficult times.
McCutcheon's recent Instagram posts have reflected a more sombre mood, as she acknowledged the recent passing of McManus's father, Mick. Celebrating his 40th birthday earlier this month, she described the occasion as "bittersweet" due to the loss.
In a heartfelt message to her husband, McCutcheon acknowledged the grief he was experiencing. "Darling Jack, Happy 40th Birthday Darling. I know itâs a weird one and bittersweet as you have lost your Darling Dad, Mick and he was your best friend⦠Itâs so hard to see you miss someone so much," she wrote.
Acknowledging the loss of her own brother, LJ, in 2022, McCutcheon continued, "You know when I lost my brother that I understand your grief and pain - And I also know that in time, You will value the gift of even having him be such a major role in your life and that he will be with you always. Nothing will ever take that awayâ¦"
She expressed hope that in time, McManus would be able to see how much he is loved and the positive impact he has on their son. "I think you show your children how to âDo lifeâ not so much by what you say but by what you actually do and act through the good, bad and all thatâs in between," she wrote. "And I know that Rafferty is a source of strength and comfort to you and is so excited to have you be his guide and make magical memories together!"
Despite the recent grief, McCutcheon reassured her husband that they would navigate the challenges together. "Itâs been a tough time for a long time but Mick has passed on to you, the resilience, strength and grace that you will need to not just survive but thrive in your life. I have no doubt you will show him that you took it all on board," she wrote. "One step at a time darling. You know I love you unconditionally and I just wish I could make it all better!"
Reflecting on McManus's career as a singer/songwriter, McCutcheon ended the post with a message of optimism and support. "You are only just 40 and have already achieved so many dreams! Most of all YOU now have the love to pass on to your greatest achievement and gift in life, our boy," she wrote. "I hope you feel the love around you today and know, that despite it all, you have the most amazing and rewarding next chapter coming your way! Now, deep breath, letâs have some fun with our boy!"
McCutcheon and McManus share a son, Rafferty, who was born in February 2012. The couple married in a picturesque ceremony in Lake Como, Italy, in 2012, after five years of dating. Despite the challenges they have faced, McCutcheon's words offer a glimpse into the strength of their bond and the unwavering support they offer each other.
