**Ian Wright Set for ITV Return Amid Family Tragedies and Broadcaster Row**
Ian Wright, the legendary Arsenal striker turned much-respected pundit, is poised for a high-profile return to ITV’s football coverage as England’s Lionesses face Italy in the Euro 2025 semi-finals. His presence on the expert panel comes at a time of both personal and professional turbulence, not least due to a recent, publicly-aired disagreement with fellow pundit Eni Aluko, and a particularly difficult period in his family life.
Wright’s journey from the non-league pitches of south London to becoming Arsenal’s record goalscorer remains one of English football’s most inspiring tales. Despite only earning his first professional contract with Crystal Palace at an age many deemed too late for the top flight, Wright’s prolific form soon earned him a move to Arsenal, where he etched his name into club history. His footballing credentials laid the foundation for a successful career in punditry, where he has become a familiar face and passionate advocate for both the men’s and women’s games.
As Wright re-enters the television studio for this pivotal Euro 2025 clash, he is expected to join an esteemed line-up featuring Emma Hayes, Karen Carney and Laura Woods. ITV’s selection of Wright signifies the broadcaster’s faith in his expertise and charisma, even as discussions about equal opportunities in sports media continue to stir intense debate.
A recent point of contention arose when former England international Eni Aluko suggested that Wright’s prominent role in women’s football punditry could be limiting opportunities for female broadcasters attempting to break into the industry. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour in April, Aluko stressed the finite nature of available roles and encouraged male pundits to consider their impact on the pathway for women. Although she later issued a public apology and clarified her respect for Wright, the episode prompted considerable public discourse about the dynamics of diversity and inclusion within sports media.
Wright responded to Aluko’s comments with a firm but conciliatory message, stating on Instagram that while he could not accept her apology, he was determined not to become a distraction from the ongoing progress and collective spirit within the women’s game. He highlighted his own contributions to supporting female colleagues and reiterated the need to address historic inequalities in football.
Beyond his broadcasting career, Wright’s personal life has seen its share of highs and lows. The former striker is father to eight children, including ex-professional footballers Shaun and Bradley Wright-Phillips. His complex family history — including his role as a teenage adoptive father, periods of estrangement, and candid reflections on his own struggles with fidelity — has been detailed in his autobiography and various interviews. He credits his current wife, Nancy Hallam, whom he married in 2011, with bringing stability and unconditional love into his life.
Despite accumulating significant wealth through football, media roles, and television appearances — with reported net worth estimates in the region of £15 million — Wright’s openness about his personal regrets and efforts to heal from childhood challenges resonates with many fans, providing a human counterpoint to his sporting success. His varied television projects, from sports podcasts to prime-time game shows and reality TV appearances, showcase not just his versatility but also his enduring appeal across diverse audiences.
This past year, though, has been marked by profound loss for Wright. In the summer of 2024, he suffered the deaths of both his former Arsenal teammate and close friend Kevin Campbell, and, shortly after, his elder brother. Speaking on the ‘Stick to Football’ podcast, Wright addressed the unique pain of these bereavements and the ongoing nature of grief. “It catches you every now and then,” he reflected, emphasising the unpredictable and persistent character of mourning while underlining the support offered by both colleagues and the wider football community.
As the Lionesses prepare for their vital semi-final, Wright’s return to punditry takes on added significance. Both ITV and the viewing public will be watching not only for his trademark insight and infectious enthusiasm, but for the example he sets as someone who navigates personal adversity and public scrutiny with forthrightness and generosity.
While controversies and heartache have left their mark, Wright’s lasting connection with the sport and its supporters persists, continuing to inspire new generations both on and off the pitch. His story, now interwoven with the evolving narrative of women’s football, remains a powerful testament to resilience, reform, and the enduring draw of the beautiful game.