Mathew Horne, renowned for his portrayal of Gavin Shipman in the beloved British sitcom Gavin & Stacey, leads a life away from the cameras that is equally captivating. While his on-screen persona found love with a Welsh girl after a whirlwind romance, Horne’s real-life love story unfolded differently, culminating in a marriage to Celina Bassili, a talented Norwegian set designer. Their paths crossed professionally, a collaboration that blossomed into a romance witnessed by surprised fans accustomed to Horne’s previous engagement.
Celina Bassili, a creative force in the world of set design, carved her niche in the British entertainment industry after completing her studies at the University of the Arts, London. Her portfolio boasts an impressive array of projects, including work on high-profile films like Enola Holmes 2, The Gentleman, and Wrath of Man. It was during her involvement in the 2019 Gavin & Stacey Christmas special that her connection with Mathew Horne ignited, capturing the attention of onlookers and confirming their burgeoning relationship. Their professional collaboration extended beyond the sitcom, with both contributing to the murder-mystery sitcom Agatha Raisin.
The revelation of Horne’s relationship with Bassili surprised fans who were still invested in his previous engagement to Casualty star Evelyn Hoskins. The timeline of events added to the intrigue, as Horne was seen with Bassili shortly after his proposal to Hoskins, leaving many to believe the wedding was still on the horizon. It later emerged that the couple had amicably separated in October 2018, clarifying the situation and paving the way for Horne’s new relationship.
The culmination of Horne and Bassili’s romance was a private ceremony held in Oslo, Norway, in September 2021. The picturesque setting of a 1930s mansion provided the backdrop for their nuptials, with Bassili radiating elegance in an ivory gown. The event marked a significant chapter in Horne’s personal life, contrasting with the whirlwind fictional romance of Gavin and Stacey. Horne’s romantic history, prior to Bassili, includes reported relationships with singer-songwriter Laura Marling and model Amber Le Bon, as well as rumored flirtations with pop icon Kylie Minogue, which he later dismissed as an unrequited crush.
The anticipation surrounding the final Gavin & Stacey Christmas special, airing on December 25, 2024, is palpable among fans eager to witness the resolution of Nessa’s proposal to Smithy. The highly anticipated episode promises a gathering of the Shipman and West families, with Christmas festivities unfolding in Essex. The plot hints at various storylines, including Neil the Baby’s apprenticeship, Gwen’s peculiar behavior, Pam’s hosting anxieties, and Mick’s golfing pursuits. Amidst the familial dynamics, the central focus remains on Gavin and Stacey’s enduring relationship, exploring their efforts to reignite the spark after 17 years of marriage.
While Mathew Horne continues to entertain audiences with his comedic talent, his personal journey reflects a more nuanced narrative. His relationship with Celina Bassili stands as a testament to the unexpected turns life can take, diverging from the fictionalized whirlwind romances portrayed on screen. As fans await the final chapter of Gavin & Stacey, they can also appreciate the real-life love story that unfolded behind the scenes, a testament to the intertwining of personal and professional lives in the world of entertainment.
