Rylan Clark split from his husband Dan Neal in 2021, with reports claiming they had different desires when it came to having children.

Rylan Clark with his ex-husband Dan Neal in 2017Rylan Clark’s wish to start a family reportedly led to the end of his marriage with Dan Neal as they both had different desires when it came to careers and children.

According to MailOnline, despite Rylan being content playing a stepfather role to Dan’s son Cameron, he was craving to have his own family.

A source told the publication: “Rylan loved being a stepdad and was wonderful but it just couldn’t fill the gap he felt for wanting his own children.”

Reports also suggested that Dan was concentrating on his television career with the aim of regaining stardom.

The 2013 Big Brother contestant hosted This Morning alongside Rylan in 2017, but despite his efforts, he did not go on to bag any significant TV roles.

Rylan Clark and Dan Neal

Rylan Clark and Dan Neal announced their marriage split in 2021. (Image: Splash)

The source added: “Dan really wants a TV career. He looks at Rylan being so effortless. He’s had showreels made and would love to be a TV star.”

Rylan had expressed his longing to build a family with Dan soon after their wedding in 2015.

He told new! magazine in 2016: “[Having children] is something I’d like to do but only when the time is right.

“I’ve always said I wouldn’t have kids unless I was in a financial situation where I knew I wouldn’t have to worry, and I’m fortunate enough to be in that now.”

In 2019, Rylan said that being a stepdad to Cameron had made him even more desperate to be a dad. He explained: “I have a 19-year-old stepson already – Cameron – and he’s amazing. I want to be a dad, I’d love it to happen, it’s when and how.”

Announcing his split from Dan in 2021, Rylan admitted to making a “number of mistakes” during their relationship.

The Celebrity Big Brother winner said in a statement: “Following reports about Dan and I spending time apart, I feel I have to speak out – as the way it is being reported is unfair.

“I have made a number of mistakes which I deeply regret and have inevitably led to the breakdown of our marriage.”

“I have taken time away from work as I am not in a good place at the moment and am seeking help.”