In a candid revelation, Emmerdale legend Patsy Kensit has shared details of a passionate and largely private chapter from her past, disclosing that she once had a secret affair with Hollywood star Terence Stamp, despite a significant 30-year age difference between them.
The Beginning of a Hidden Romance
The actress, now 57, explained that the relationship blossomed in the early 1990s while both were collaborating on the crime thriller Prince of Shadows, which was filmed in Madrid. At that time, Patsy was just 23 and already establishing herself as a rising star, whereas Terence, then in his fifties, was an Oscar-nominated actor renowned internationally for his role as General Zod in the original Superman films.
How They Met and Reconnected
According to Patsy, their initial encounter occurred at a dinner party in Chelsea, where they were introduced through a mutual friend. Although brief, this meeting left a lasting impression. Shortly after, Patsy was cast as Rebeca in Prince of Shadows and personally recommended Terence for the lead role of Darman, reuniting them professionally and paving the way for a romantic connection.
Speaking openly about their time together, Patsy described the bond as intense and deeply emotional, transcending the obvious age gap. She told The Sun: ‘We were star-crossed lovers and he was a total gentleman. Even though there was an age gap, we had a strong bond. He was an amazing and generous lover.’
A Romance Away from the Spotlight
Filming in Madrid provided the couple with an opportunity to grow closer away from the intense scrutiny of the UK media. Once production concluded, the romance continued back in London, with Patsy frequently visiting Terence at his Piccadilly flat. She fondly recalled these moments as special and strangely timeless, reflecting on that period as a ‘lost few months in my life’—a fleeting yet unforgettable experience that has remained with her over the years.
The End of the Affair
The relationship eventually faded when Patsy left the UK in 1991 to film Timebomb. She later admitted to making the decision to walk away, attributing it to being ‘young and stupid’ at the time, a choice she now views with greater understanding and perspective.
Terence Stamp passed away in August 2025 at the age of 87 in Los Angeles. Following his death, his family released a statement honouring his remarkable career and legacy, noting: ‘He leaves behind an extraordinary body of work, both as an actor and as a writer that will continue to touch and inspire people for years to come. We ask for privacy at this sad time.’
Patsy Kensit's Career and Legacy
While the romance was short-lived, it occurred during a pivotal phase in Patsy's career, which soon saw her rise to fame as one of Britain's most recognisable soap stars. Although she had been in the public eye since childhood, her iconic role as Sadie King in Emmerdale solidified her status as a television legend.
Patsy joined the ITV soap in the early 2000s, quickly becoming a fan favourite due to Sadie's dramatic storylines, fiery personality, and memorable confrontations. Her performances were widely praised for adding depth and glamour to the series. More recently, she made a brief appearance in the BBC's EastEnders as Lola Pierce's estranged mother in 2023.
Reflecting on the Past
Over the years, Patsy has remained a familiar presence on British television, balancing acting with music, reality TV appearances, and honest interviews about her life. Known for her openness, she has never hesitated to discuss her past, including the highs, heartbreaks, and decisions that shaped her journey.
Her revelation about Terence Stamp offers a rare glimpse into a quieter, more private aspect of her life, distinct from the drama of soaps. Decades later, Patsy looks back on the affair with warmth rather than regret, cherishing it as a brief but meaningful chapter in her personal history.
