Ore Oduba, beloved for his 2016Strictly Come Dancingvictory and years as a familiar face on children’s television, has revealed a deeply personal struggle: a thirty-year addiction to pornography. The presenter opened up about the consuming nature of the habit, describing it as a constant companion throughout his life.
Oduba confessed the addiction became a refuge, a twisted source of comfort during moments of self-doubt and rejection. He explained it felt intrinsically linked to his identity, a hidden part of himself he consistently turned to, regardless of circumstance. This pattern began decades ago and continued even as his public profile soared.
His early career included a popular stint onNewsroundfrom 2008 to 2013, endearing him to a young audience. The subsequent win onStrictlycatapulted him to national fame, followed by a year-long tour withThe Rocky Horror Show. However, the demanding schedule and time away from home proved particularly challenging.
The strain on his personal life became apparent in 2021, when Oduba publicly acknowledged a difficult period in his relationship with his wife, Portia. The couple, who met at Loughborough University in 2010 and married five years later, navigated a challenging time that he now links to the underlying addiction.
Beyond his television work, including appearances on shows likeCelebrity SASandThe Cube, Oduba continues to pursue his passion for musical theatre. He now speaks openly about his experiences, hoping to shed light on the pervasive issue of pornography addiction and its devastating impact.
Oduba’s decision to share his story is driven by a desire to raise awareness, particularly concerning the exposure of children to sexual imagery. He hopes that by speaking candidly about his own struggles, he can contribute to a broader conversation and offer support to others battling similar demons.
He describes the addiction not as a moral failing, but as a deeply ingrained compulsion that has eroded his sense of self from within. It’s a revelation that underscores the hidden battles fought by those in the public eye, and the courage it takes to confront and address them.
