Junior Simpson, known for his role as the DJ in the wedding scene of the holiday classic Love Actually, has retired from acting following a diagnosis of vascular dementia triggered by multiple strokes.
Fundraiser Supports Family Amid Health Challenges
Friend and fellow comedian Peter Vincent launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist Simpson’s wife, Emma, with living expenses now that the actor can no longer perform or write.
Vincent explained: “Emma, Junior’s wife, recently contacted Manford’s to share some very difficult news. Following a series of strokes, Junior has been diagnosed with vascular dementia and has had to retire from performing and writing.”
He added: “Junior has given so much to this industry over the years. Now it’s our turn to show up for him and his family. If you’re able to contribute, no matter the amount, it will make a real difference. And if you can’t, simply sharing this page will help enormously.”
Notable figures including Adam Hills, Richard Osman, Paul Sinha from The Chase, Strictly Come Dancing contestant Chris McCausland, and Michael McIntyre have donated to the cause.
Romantic Backstory with Wife Emma
Simpson and Emma first connected in 2017 for a brief romance that ended soon after. They rekindled their relationship in 2020 via a dating app during the pandemic.
With Simpson in Birmingham and Emma in London, their long-distance courtship relied on extended phone conversations during lockdown. They met in person only a few times but professed their love on Christmas Day 2020.
Simpson shared how Emma saved his life: “I fell in love and then she saved my life. I’d been talking to her in January and said I felt ill but would call back later or the next day. When I didn’t after three days she panicked – she knew I wouldn’t have ghosted her.”
Emma rushed to his flat, discovering him collapsed from COVID-19 and a diabetic coma. He spent a month on a ventilator. She relocated to Birmingham to support him, and he proposed in August during another hospital stay after a minor stroke.
“It was a very tough time, but I’d go through it all again twice if it meant I still ended up with Emma,” Simpson reflected.
The couple married in May 2022 and now resides in Streatham, south London.
