- Television host Alison Hammond has addressed online scrutiny regarding the 22-year age gap between herself and partner David Putman, urging critics to mind their own business.
- Hammond called out societal double standards surrounding older women dating younger partners, noting that men in similar relationships rarely face comparable wildlife-themed labels.
- The remarks follow a recent health scare on the set of This Morning, where Hammond was hospitalized after suffering an on-air panic attack.
Alison Hammond Confronts Online Trolling Over 22-Year Age Gap
Popular television presenter Alison Hammond has directly addressed ongoing commentary surrounding her personal life, telling judgmental spectators to mind your business
regarding her romance with David Putman. The 51-year-old This Morning host has reportedly been dating the 29-year-old Russian model and massage therapist since 2023. The couple initially crossed paths when Putman was booked to provide Hammond with a treatment, and their 22-year age difference has since generated discussion and trolling across social media platforms.
Speaking in an interview with Attitude Magazine, Hammond underscored that people spend far too much time worrying about other peopleâs relationships
. Defending the autonomy of adult partnerships, Hammond stated: If two consenting adults are happy, loved, respected and making each other laugh, what exactly is the problem? People will always have an opinion,
before adding: Iâve learned that you canât live your life according to everybody elseâs opinions because youâll end up exhausted and miserable. Love who you love.
Addressing Societal Labels and Relationship Dynamics
When questioned about being labeled a cougar
by critics and the media, Hammond noted that it depends whoâs saying it and how theyâre saying it
. She highlighted an enduring gender imbalance in public perception when age gaps occur in romantic relationships.
Sometimes I think itâs funny. Sometimes I think, âDarling, Iâm not a cougar. Iâm a whole safari!â But there is definitely a double standard,
Hammond explained. A man dates a younger woman and everyone goes, âGood for himâ. A woman dates a younger man and suddenly sheâs been given a wildlife classification. Let women enjoy themselves!
Hammond, whose 21-year-old son Aiden supports her partnership with Putman, explained that humor and mutual respect remain the cornerstones of their connection. I love that we can make each other laugh,
she shared. Thatâs the big thing for me. Life is too short to be in a relationship where you canât laugh together. Weâre different in lots of ways, but sometimes those differences are exactly what makes it interesting. And letâs be honest, I bring the life experience and he brings the youth. Itâs basically a human multi-generational home!
Recent On-Air Health Scare on This Morning
The candid interview comes on the heels of an alarming health event for Hammond during a live broadcast of ITV’s This Morning earlier this month. The presenter was forced off-screen midway through the show after clutching her chest, prompting urgent medical attention. Following an evaluation at a local hospital, physicians determined that Hammond had experienced an acute panic attack rather than a cardiac event.
Upon making her return to her regular broadcasting slot, Hammond opened up to viewers about the frightening incident: I couldn’t catch my breath and I genuinely thought I was having a heart attack. I’m so glad I’m here. I feel so grateful. I feel so thankful to God, to everything in life.
Why This Matters
Hammond’s open discussion brings heightened visibility to the persistent gender bias and double standards faced by mature women in high-profile relationships. While public figures who are older men frequently encounter little scrutiny when dating younger partners, women often face gendered terminology and digital harassment. By speaking candidly about her personal happiness, Hammond reinforces conversations around female agency, relationship autonomy, and the emotional toll of uninvited public scrutiny.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Alison Hammond and David Putman meet?
Alison Hammond and David Putman reportedly met in 2023 when Putman, who works as a massage therapist and model, was booked to provide Hammond with a treatment.
What is the age difference between Alison Hammond and David Putman?
There is a 22-year age gap between the couple; Hammond is 51 years old and Putman is 29 years old.
What happened during Alison Hammond’s recent appearance on This Morning?
Hammond had to leave This Morning midway through a live broadcast earlier this month after experiencing severe chest discomfort and breathing difficulties. Although she initially feared she was having a heart attack, hospital staff confirmed she had suffered a panic attack.
