**Trinny Woodall Reflects on Former Husband’s Death and Supporting Daughter Through Grief**
Trinny Woodall, well known for her role on the BBC’s iconic fashion series *What Not To Wear*, has spoken candidly about the emotional toll of her ex-husband Johnny Elichaoff’s suicide, and how the tragedy affected their daughter, Lyla. Appearing as a guest on Fearne Cotton’s *Happy Place* podcast, Woodall, now 61, revisited the devastating events of 2014 and discussed the long road to acceptance and healing.
During the podcast, Woodall made it clear that she does not blame herself, despite the natural inclination to question if she could have done more. Explaining her perspective, she said, “The thoughts of should’ve, would’ve, could’ve can be all-consuming, but ultimately, when someone is in that state, no one can intervene once their mind is made up. It’s a painful lesson, but one I had to learn.” Her statement serves as a frank acknowledgment of the powerlessness often felt by those left behind after a loved one’s suicide.
Woodall took a moment during the interview to shine a light on organisations dedicated to mental health and suicide prevention. She highlighted the urgent need for ongoing support, noting how suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50 in the UK. She expressed gratitude for the resources and support provided by charities in this area, while calling for more conversation and awareness around the issue.
The fashion expert also offered a rare insight into the heartbreaking task of informing her daughter about Elichaoff’s passing. At the time, Lyla was just 11 years old. Woodall described her anxiety over finding the right words, eventually enlisting the help of Julia Samuel, renowned author of *Grief Works*. Samuel advised Woodall to explain that Elichaoff had suffered “a heart attack in his head,” a gentle euphemism to help a young child comprehend the nature of his death.
Lyla’s reaction, as described by Woodall, was deeply distressing: “She screamed in a way that was almost animalistic. The pain was all-consuming, yet within 20 minutes she was downstairs, moving on with her day.” This stark transition, says Woodall, demonstrates the complex, sometimes bewildering ways in which children process bereavement.
Woodall went on to detail the days that followed, describing how Lyla faced a rush of sympathy and support that, at times, she struggled to absorb. There was a cremation, followed swiftly by a memorial service attended by more than a thousand people. Woodall recounted how Lyla honoured her father by reciting the poem “If” in front of the congregation – not with tears, but with composure. “It wasn’t about putting on a brave face. Children experience and express grief so differently,” Woodall observed.
The conversation also touched on Woodall’s own past, including her struggles with substance use. When asked if she regretted a decade spent using drugs, Woodall said she did not. Instead, she believes those experiences fostered resilience. “Having to deal with difficult situations early on gave me a depth of character. That strength has been invaluable in facing life’s toughest moments,” she told listeners.
Beyond her broadcasting fame, Woodall has since forged a successful career as the founder of Trinny London, a cosmetics brand noted for its emphasis on simplicity and empowerment for women. Her openness in discussing personal loss has resonated with many, offering reassurance that grief, with its many shades and stages, is a journey that does not follow a straight path.
Anyone living in the UK or Ireland seeking support for mental health or suicidal feelings can contact Samaritans any time, for free, on 116 123 or by email at jo@samaritans.org. As conversations around mental health continue to evolve, stories like Woodall’s highlight the need for compassion, awareness, and ongoing dialogue.
The full interview with Trinny Woodall is available on the *Happy Place* podcast via Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify.