Alison Hammond Addresses Public Interest in Her 22-Year Age Gap Relationship
ITV This Morning presenter Alison Hammond has made a rare public admission about her personal life, opening up on the significant age difference with her boyfriend, David Putman. The 51-year-old television personality, who has been dating the Russian model since 2023, revealed she is "absolutely in love" but acknowledges why their relationship draws attention.
Understanding Public Fascination with the Age Difference
Alison Hammond, who is a mother to 20-year-old son Aiden, told the Daily Mail she completely understands why people are interested given the 22-year gap. However, she questioned why similar relationships often receive less scrutiny when the man is older. "What I find interesting is that it's not as interesting when it's the man who is older. Why is that? I just want people to be happy for us," Hammond expressed. She emphasized their strong connection, stating, "We are absolutely in love."
Facing Societal Pressures and Expectations
During a recent appearance on This Morning alongside co-host Dermot O'Leary and guests Nick Ferrari and Ashley James, Hammond confessed to experiencing pressure regarding her marital status. "I think you do get a lot of questions, for instance, I've never married in my entire life, and I get a lot of pressure as to why I'm not married?" she shared. Hammond noted practical differences in how relationships are perceived, explaining, "For instance, like going to parties and things like that, my partners will never be invited, but if I was married, my partner would always be invited to a party."
She further addressed expectations around family size, adding, "Also, having one child as well, having a lot of pressure of going, 'Do you feel like [having] another one?' Well, no, I'm happy with the one." Despite these societal pressures, Hammond maintained she doesn't feel the need to conform to traditional ideals, stating, "I do feel a pressure that I need to have the ideal of having a husband, and I don't feel like I really need one."
Reflecting on the Relationship's Positive Impact
In previous comments to The Mirror, Hammond described her relationship with Putman as going "really, really well." She praised his character, saying, "He just has the most beautiful energy, and everyone feels it when they're in his presence. It's very rare. I am so grateful that he chooses to spend his life with me." Hammond reflected on the emotional benefits of being in love, noting, "It's a lovely feeling to be in love. It makes you more patient, it makes you kinder, because you've always got somebody you want to care for - and they're caring for you."
David Putman is thought to be turning 29 next month, highlighting the age difference that has sparked public discussion. Despite keeping their relationship fairly private until now, Hammond's candid admissions provide insight into her personal happiness and the challenges of navigating public perception.
