Joe Marler has opened up on his battle with depression, admitting he “would not be here” if it wasn’t for his wife Daisy.
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The former Harlequins prop, who will appear on The Jonathan Ross Show, built a reputation as one of rugby’s biggest characters across a career that included nearly 300 club appearances before retiring in 2024.
But away from the pitch, Marler was fighting a very different battle.
Speaking on Jamie Laing’s Great Company podcast, the 33-year-old delivered an emotional tribute to his wife.
“I wouldn’t be in this world without her. She’s everything… she’s incredible.”
Marler, who married Daisy in 2017 and has four children, also revealed the lowest point of his struggle came in 2018 following a row at home.
After an argument sparked by a minor incident on the school run, the England international said he “had a complete meltdown” before experiencing thoughts of ending his life.
“I thought maybe the world’s better off if I’m not around… what would it look like if I wasn’t here anymore?”
The moment proved to be a turning point.
“That was when I was like, ‘f***ing hell, I need help. Proper help.’”
Marler had been struggling internally for years, but it was the following day — after a game against Saracens — that he finally spoke to the club doctor and began seeking professional support.
“He said, ‘we’re going to get you some help, mate.’ That was the moment.”
Since then, Marler has undergone therapy and taken antidepressants, and says he is now in a much better place mentally.
“I’m in a better headspace now.”
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