Mathew Horne has recently set the record straight regarding rumors that he had a fallout with his Gavin & Stacey co-star, James Corden. The two have shared a long professional history, both starring in the hit sitcom Gavin & Stacey—which was created by Corden and Ruth Jones—along with collaborating on a sketch show and the 2009 film Lesbian Vampire Killers. Despite their longstanding partnership, rumors swirled back in 2009, before Corden's meteoric rise to fame in the U.S. as the host of The Late Late Show, that the two had fallen out. These rumors surfaced as Corden was gaining international recognition, especially through the viral success of Carpool Karaoke.
However, Horne is adamant that these claims were baseless. In a recent interview, he shared that the narrative of a falling out between the two simply wasn’t true. According to Horne, the “notion” that they had a falling out was pushed on them, and it ultimately “silenced” him during a time when he wanted to publicly address the situation. “I couldn’t really do anything about it,” Horne explained. “Because James then went off to the States, that was the narrative, and however much I said that we didn’t fall out, no amount of protesting would have convinced people that it didn’t happen.” He acknowledged the challenges of dealing with such rumors, especially when they overshadowed his ability to speak about his friend and co-worker.
The rumors that plagued Horne’s relationship with Corden were a source of frustration for him, particularly as they had to endure for years. Reflecting on that time, Horne called it “hectic.” He further shared his desire to move beyond such drama, noting that the experience drained him emotionally. “I really don’t want any more hecticness and chaos in my life. I just want to be grateful and enjoy the things that I’m so fortunate to have,” he said. This sense of gratitude, he explained, comes from having a rewarding career and a wonderful family. “Honestly, I’m sick of talking about 15 years of this. It sapped my energy at the time and it’s not important,” he added, highlighting the toll that the rumors had on him personally and professionally.
While Horne admitted to feeling “silenced” by the false narrative, he also expressed his feelings of loyalty and protection toward Corden. In recent years, Corden has faced a fair share of public criticism from fellow celebrities, with some labeling him as “the rudest celebrity” (Mel B) and a “serial name-dropper” (Sharon Osbourne). Horne, however, is quick to defend his friend and co-star. “The root of all the flak that he takes—and it’s beyond flak—is jealousy,” he said. According to Horne, Corden is an immensely talented individual, a skilled actor and writer, and a true success story who has come from a working-class background to achieve global fame. This success, Horne believes, is the real reason behind the harsh criticism Corden has faced.
Horne is passionate about protecting Corden’s reputation, especially when he sees negative comments made about him by fellow stars. He described Corden as “phenomenally gifted” and emphasized that much of the criticism he receives stems from jealousy rather than any genuine wrongdoing on his part. Horne’s loyalty to his friend is clear in his words: “I am protective of him.” He explained that despite the challenges that Corden has faced, especially in the media, he continues to admire and support his co-star’s success.
Looking ahead, Horne is focused on the upcoming events that matter to him most. The final episode of Gavin & Stacey is set to air on Christmas Day, marking the end of the beloved series. Horne, who has had a unique and dynamic career in British television, expressed his excitement about the special. This 90-minute episode will serve as a fitting conclusion to the series that captured the hearts of so many viewers.
As for the legacy of Gavin & Stacey, it’s clear that both Horne and Corden have made lasting impacts on the show’s fans. Despite the false rumors that have clouded their relationship at times, both actors have managed to maintain a strong and positive connection, with Horne’s protective stance serving as a testament to their enduring friendship.
Horne’s reflections on the entire situation underline the importance of focusing on the positive aspects of his career and personal life. In the face of persistent rumors and public scrutiny, Horne remains grounded and committed to moving forward with a sense of gratitude for the opportunities he has had. “I’ve been silenced in discussing him because of this narrative that’s been imposed,” Horne shared, suggesting that, for a time, his ability to speak freely about his friend was restricted. Now, as the Gavin & Stacey finale approaches, it seems like the perfect moment for Horne to break his silence and share his true feelings.
In the end, Horne’s words serve as a reminder that the entertainment industry is often filled with rumors and false narratives. While some might take joy in spreading negativity, others—like Horne—are focused on the positive and are determined to protect their friends and the relationships that matter most. Horne’s unwavering support for Corden proves that the bond between the two extends far beyond the confines of Gavin & Stacey. And with the show’s finale just around the corner, fans can expect one last, heartfelt goodbye to the beloved characters they’ve followed for so many years.
With the finale set to air on Christmas Day, fans of Gavin & Stacey will finally get the resolution they've been waiting for. For Horne, the end of this chapter will be a moment of closure, allowing him to leave behind the chaos of the past and embrace the future with a sense of peace.
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