Chef and author Prue Leith shared candid reflections on aging and love during an appearance at the Henley Literary Festival on October 10, 2026. Addressing common perceptions surrounding growing older, Leith challenged the notion that aging is inherently negative, drawing parallels to the struggles and uncertainties of adolescence.

Leith recounted her own turbulent teenage years marked by familial conflicts and uncertainty about her identity and future. She contrasted these experiences with the challenges of aging, suggesting that the emotional turmoil of youth was often more intense. “I didn’t have a boyfriend, and desperately wanted one. I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. I didn’t know who I was – and that was much more stressful than being old,” she said. While acknowledging that some older individuals face illness or loneliness, Leith urged people in good health to embrace life actively, emphasizing the importance of making the most of available time.

In the same event, Leith discussed finding love later in life following the death of her first husband, Rayne Kruger, a property developer, who passed away in 2002. The couple had two children. After years of widowhood, she began a relationship with retired clothes designer John Playfair, marrying him in October 2016.

Leith described the experience as unexpectedly joyful, noting that although she had grown accustomed to the independence and solitude of widowhood, meeting Playfair brought a renewed sense of excitement. “I was 70, but I had that same thing of your heart going, like a kettle drum, and anxiety about whether he'll phone or ring or something,” she remarked, likening falling in love at an advanced age to the feelings experienced during adolescence.

Reflecting on her approach to life, Leith emphasized the value of maintaining an open mind toward new experiences. “If your mind stays open to new experiences and enjoyment, and just does it, there's far more likelihood of you being happy,” she said. She cautioned against dwelling excessively on life’s difficulties, advocating instead for a proactive attitude towards happiness.

The Henley Literary Festival, where Leith spoke, continues through October 11 in Henley-on-Thames.