Cat Deeley has revealed the reasons behind her move from Los Angeles to London in 2020, explaining that her children's education and the city's diversity were key factors. The This Morning presenter, who spent 15 years in California with her ex-husband Patrick Kielty and their sons Milo and James, told The Times that she wanted her boys to be educated in the UK.
"I moved back to the UK because I wanted the boys to be educated here. London is a melting pot," Deeley said. "I like that there is very little segregation and I think it's important that [my sons] see different types of people from different backgrounds. I wanted them to understand the opportunities they have and never take them for granted."
Life in Los Angeles and the decision to return
During her time in the US, Deeley fronted the dance show So You Think You Can Dance and made history as the first Brit to host Live With Regis and Kelly. She also appeared as a correspondent on The Tonight Show and was nominated for five Emmy Awards. The family lived in a £2.1 million mansion with its own office, gym and swimming pool.
Deeley acknowledged one typically British downside to her return. "I struggled with the weather when we moved back to London," she admitted. "In LA, I'd open my doors and have a coffee in my pyjamas outside."
A terrifying incident in the US
Her explanation appears to contrast with an earlier account she gave in 2020, when she suggested the move was prompted by a mall shooting that involved Patrick and her son. She told You magazine: "They shut down the centre. I got a call from Paddy, saying, 'They're taking us out through the fire exits, but nobody can get to their car. If we walk to a junction, can you come and get us?'"
She described the incident as "terrifying" and said Patrick was "shaken". The threat of active shooters remained a concern, as she recalled discussing emergency plans with a friend while looking at schools for Milo. "We had to ask the question," she said, and the danger quickly became a "reality".
Life now and future plans
Having separated from Patrick last year, Deeley now lives in London and has been a regular presenter on ITV's This Morning with Ben Shephard since 2024, though the duo are currently on their summer break.
She admitted missing one aspect of LA life: the family's love of outdoor activities. "We would go horse riding or surfing at the weekend," she said. While the family might return to the USA at some point, she said it would not be for an extended period. She added that her sons are "flourishing" after returning to the UK.
