SAM Thompson’s relationship with Zara McDermott “never recovered” after she cheated on him, it has been reported.
Former Love Island star Zara, 28, previously confessed to having a fling with music exec Brahim Fourad while taking part in The X Factor: Celebrity in 2019.
Yesterday it was revealed she and Sam, 32, had split after five years and insiders have insisted his family – especially sister Louise, 34 – struggled to forgive Zara for her infidelity.
A source said: “Zara and Sam’s relationship just never had felt like it was heading for the long haul.
“They never really recovered from Zara’s cheating, most couples would have struggled lasting for as long as they did afterwards.”
The insider added to MailOnline: “Zara had some big making up to do, especially with Louise, she really wasn’t happy when Sam took her back.
“But she managed to make it work and they had some great times together again, but it just felt like it was never going to be truly serious.”
Following the shock split, fans speculated Zara dropped a huge hint days ago – but nobody noticed.
Reflecting on 2024, Zara posted a montage of clips and photos from the year on Instagram.
While Sam was seen in the post, fans noticed he wasn’t mentioned in Zara’s lengthy caption.
She shared highlights from year – including shooting her documentaries, joining the Morning Live presenting team and launching a new business – but her ex-Made in Chelsea star boyfriend didn’t make the cut.
Commenting, one fan wrote: “So, no Sam this year?”
On New Year’s Day, MailOnline reported Sam and Zara had split, with a source claiming their hectic schedules had forced them apart.
An insider said: “Sam and Zara have ended their relationship. It’s been an incredibly difficult decision for them to part ways, they still care and have a lot of love for each other.
“But after a tough year of working hard at their romance, they have split and will be focusing on their individual careers going forward into 2025.”
