Wayne Rooney’s decision to abstain from alcohol since February marks a significant turning point in both his personal and professional life, sources close to the former footballer say. The change followed a night out at the newly opened Soho House in Manchester, when photographs emerged of Rooney, then 40, appearing intoxicated and conversing with an unknown woman wearing a short skirt. The incident reportedly prompted an intense reaction from his wife, Coleen Rooney, who had been under strain due to her husband’s past behavior related to alcohol and public scrutiny.
According to individuals familiar with the situation, Coleen was especially upset because she was under the impression Wayne was attending a pre-Brit Awards event with friends and was making efforts to reduce his drinking after stepping down as manager of Plymouth Argyle. Upon discovering the true nature of the evening, she confronted not only Rooney but also reached out to Soho House with complaints about the environment that allowed the situation to occur. This reaction was described as unprecedented and marked a “tipping point” in their relationship.
The incident, detailed in the couple’s Disney+ series The Real Rooneys, appears to have been instrumental in Rooney’s lifestyle transformation. Since that night, sources say he has not consumed alcohol and has taken steps to improve his health and public image. Rooney is reported to have lost approximately four stone, adopting the Macro diet, and has updated his style with the help of a professional stylist. Over the summer, he also underwent a rhinoplasty, a decision reportedly influenced by Coleen.
Professionally, Rooney is experiencing a resurgence. Once seen largely as a former athlete struggling with off-field issues, he has become a prominent figure in sports broadcasting. His commentary, noted for its candidness—such as his viral critique of the 2022 World Cup final halftime show—has garnered praise from broadcasters including the BBC, where he is said to earn around £8,000 per episode on Match of the Day. He also hosts a podcast focused on Manchester United, his former club, and enjoys growing demand from various television and streaming platforms.
Rooney is also expected to follow Coleen, who finished as runner-up two years ago, by participating in the upcoming series of the reality show I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! Reports indicate that his management team is finalizing terms for his appearance, with sources suggesting he will command one of the highest fees ever paid by ITV for the show. Industry insiders note that his rehabilitated image has made him a more attractive candidate for such opportunities.
Wayne Rooney’s past controversies, including incidents involving alcohol-related offenses and allegations from escorts in the late 2000s and 2010, have long attracted media attention. Coleen has publicly acknowledged the challenges his behavior caused their marriage, at one point considering separation. Nevertheless, those close to the couple say she is proud of his recent transformation and the efforts he has made to turn his life around.
The shift in Rooney’s lifestyle and career underscores a broader narrative of personal redemption and professional reinvention, illustrating a significant evolution from his earlier public persona.