The Traitors star Jonny Holloway has publicly addressed swirling rumours that he could be the biological father of his former co-star Charlotte Chilton's daughter, Penelope.
The Paternity Dispute Unfolds
This complex story involves multiple claims and counter-claims. Charlotte Chilton has consistently maintained that singer Conor Maynard is the father of her two-year-old daughter, Penelope. However, Maynard has repeatedly denied paternity, a position supported by not one, but two separate DNA tests confirming he is not the biological father.
With Maynard ruled out by scientific evidence, speculation turned to another potential father. Jonny Holloway, who appeared with Chilton on the popular BBC show, has now confirmed that he and Chilton were intimate around the relevant time. He alleges this occurred during a drunken night out, for which he claims he was heavily intoxicated.
Holloway's Account and DNA Test Request
In a detailed statement, Holloway expressed his willingness to take responsibility if proven to be the father. "If I was the father I would step up and take that child as my own," he told the Daily Mail. Emphasising his character, he added, "I'm a man of values and standards, I come from a military background. I pride myself on having respect and being a good dad to my children."
Holloway claims he has proactively sought clarity on the situation. He has requested a DNA test several times but says his efforts have been ignored. He provided a specific account of his communication with Chilton, stating, "I said to Charlotte, 'Look we both know what happened here. Should we do a DNA test because of what has happened?'" According to Holloway, she initially agreed but then ceased communication when he attempted to arrange the test.
Conflicting Narratives and Emotional Fallout
Charlotte Chilton's position remains firm. She has reportedly rejected claims that she slept with Holloway and refuses to engage with him on paternity matters. Despite the two DNA tests exonerating Conor Maynard, she became emotional in a recent interview, declaring, "I know for a fact that the only person who can be my daughter's father is Conor Maynard."
Maynard's response to this ongoing situation has been publicly dismissive. He appeared to mock Chilton's emotional interview by sharing a video online where he offered "an invisible tissue for your invisible tears." He later posted a new song with lyrics telling the subject to "please shut up," and suggested on social media that another Traitors star could be the father, a claim Chilton has also denied.
With nearly two years having passed since Penelope's birth, the paternity question remains publicly unresolved, creating a protracted and deeply personal dispute between all parties involved.
