King Charles Sends Heartwarming Message to Diarmuid Gavin’s Daughter

Celebrity gardener Diarmuid Gavin recently shared a touching moment involving King Charles and his daughter, Eppie, marking her transition from school. The message was delivered as part of a new episode of the Virgin Media series, “Living with Lucy,” which showcases Gavin’s life and career.

Gavin’s connection with the monarch dates back over a decade, when he was appointed a special ambassador by Prince Charles. In the episode, Gavin unpacks a delivery of three metal birds intended for a garden showpiece, which serves as a reminder of a previous project for the King. While discussing this, he revealed a video message from the King, wishing Eppie success on her last day at school, saying, “… wishing you every possible success on your last day at school, what a relief!”

This revelation came during a candid conversation with host Lucy Kennedy, where Gavin opened up about various personal challenges, including fame, burnout, and his turbulent younger years. He also spoke movingly about the death of his brother, Conor, and a near-drowning experience while filming a show on a beach in Kerry.

Gavin recounted the incident, explaining how he was caught in rough waves. “I discovered I couldn’t get back, and it was wild,” he said. A cameraman, thinking Gavin was signaling a thumbs-up, later realized he was in danger. With a few remaining strokes, Gavin managed to swim to safety. Reflecting on the moment, he admitted, “Isn’t this silly? Isn’t this silly?”

Despite his achievements, Gavin revealed that he did not enjoy school. He described himself as being perceived as “conventionally dim,” stating, “School didn’t suit me, exams didn’t suit me.” Growing up as one of five children, the impact of his brother’s tragic death during an accident left a profound mark on his family. “It’s hard to grow up with grief,” he said, acknowledging the immense love from his parents but recognizing that childhood was a challenge for him.

In his heartfelt tribute to his parents, Gavin praised their strength in the face of adversity. He highlighted how his mother’s resilience sometimes came at a cost, while his father derived joy from his accomplishments. “Dad said, ‘our brightest star’,” he recalled, visibly moved by the memory of his father’s pride in him.

Gavin’s personal journey also led him to meet his wife, Justine Keane, the daughter of the late journalist Terry Keane, while working in her garden. He expressed admiration for Terry, describing her as “utterly brilliant.” He fondly recounted a time when she showed compassion towards a homeless person living in a shed on her property, illustrating her deep humanity.

Amidst his rise to fame, Gavin’s mother-in-law found humor in his celebrity status, especially when he had multiple television series in the top ten. “She looked at me and said, ‘Ah, the brat’,” he laughed, reflecting on the affectionate banter within the family.

Gavin candidly acknowledged that his creativity was often coupled with outbursts in the past, which led to a reputation that required oversight from his employers. “It’s not pretty, and it’s very cutting and very cruel,” he admitted, expressing regret for his earlier behavior.

Today, Gavin and Justine continue the tradition of hospitality that Justine’s family upheld, often opening their home to those in need, including a young Croatian man who lived with them for a year. “If you have a big house, the only value it has is being a good neighbour, being a good parent, and sharing it,” he stated.

As Gavin reflects on his journey, he expresses a newfound appreciation for aging. “I love the fact that I don’t give a f**k anymore,” he said with a smile.

“Living with Lucy” featuring Diarmuid Gavin airs tonight at 21:00 on Virgin Media One and is available for streaming on Virgin Media Play.