After seven years of engagement, Lucy Mecklenburgh and Ryan Thomas are still not married—despite their fairy-tale proposal in Positano, Italy, back in 2019. Their love story began in 2017 on Channel 4’s Celebrity Island with Bear Grylls, but despite their strong bond and two beautiful children, Roman (6) and Lilah (3), wedding plans remain on hold.
The couple, who’ve spoken about how life simply got in the way of their big day, have now revealed a more complex reason for the delay. It appears that financial concerns, particularly Ryan’s past money struggles, have caused Lucy to pause their plans. Sources claim that Lucy, who hails from a wealthy family with a substantial property portfolio, wants to keep her finances independent from Ryan’s, particularly after his past financial troubles.
A close source shared with The Sun that Lucy has always been “very financially literate,” thanks to her father’s advice and guidance. Her dad, Paul, who is known for his extensive property holdings, has taught Lucy to be cautious and wise with her money. “She listens to everything he says,” the insider explained. “Lucy’s always been taught to make careful investments.”
In contrast, Ryan has openly admitted to making financial missteps, which he has worked hard to recover from. “Lucy loves him, but it wouldn’t be smart to combine their finances,” the source continued. “They already share money and own property together, but marriage would legally bind their finances in a way that could be risky for Lucy if Ryan ever fell into money problems again.”
Before they even met, Ryan faced a financial meltdown, declaring bankruptcy in 2013 due to an unpaid £40,000 tax bill—despite earning £100,000 a year at the time. Though Ryan has since clawed his way back from financial ruin, including paying off his debts, he is still haunted by the bankruptcy, and it continues to affect his financial standing. Even as recently as 2025, his company, R James Thomas Ltd, had just £1 in its bank account, along with a £30,000 Covid Bounce Back Loan.
Despite the money worries, the couple remains strong. One source even said that the delay in their wedding is more about being “happy as they are” with their young family and busy careers. Another added that Lucy feels their current situation, without marriage, works perfectly for them.
Still, the issue of finances seems to remain a significant factor, and while Lucy supports Ryan through his financial recovery, she is reportedly being cautious about her future financial security. Could a wedding be on the horizon soon, or is Lucy taking a step back until Ryan proves he’s financially stable enough for them to legally tie the knot?
Daily Mail.
