Ulrika Jonsson, 57, hits back at cruel ageist comments after podcast appearance

TV Presenter Ulrika Jonsson fired back at ageist comments with a passionate Instagram post. This comes after the 57-year-old was met with "nasty comments" about her appearance after she recently joined Spencer Matthews on his Untapped Podcast.

Ulrika said that the episode, which was filmed as well as audibly recorded, had many comments that claimed she looked "over-tanned, imperfect and was ageing." In her post, the mum-of-four also highlighted that it's tiresome to constantly point out flaws and judge another woman's appearance. Alongside a selfie, the Gladiators star penned: "I feel I need to address something. I don't get a lot of nasty comments - or if I do, I don't see them or send people love in response. But a couple of weeks ago I took part in a fab podcast @untapped.podcast to discuss my sobriety with the smart @spencermatthews."

Ulrika continued: "I wore no make-up. Partly because I kinda forgot that a project for the ears is nowadays also a feast for the eyes. But as someone who has had to wear heavy make-up on screen from 5am for years, I'm not a fan.

"Most crucially tho, since childhood I've suffered from eczema. On my body - the creases of my arms and legs - on my face - eyes and lips. Make-up has always been the enemy because it's been agony to wear." (sic)

The TV star continued: "There were a lot of positive comments about the WORDS I said on the podcast. But a considerable amount about my tanned appearance.

"AND how OLD I look. In a few weeks I will be 58. I will never look like the fresh 21yr old that used to greet you first thing in the morning by the weather board.

"I'm not ashamed to say that I am a sun worshipper and will no doubt pay the price for that. But UV lamps and salt baths, astringent solutions and creams were a feature of my life since I was a small child. I have uneven pigmentation doubtlessly not helped by ageing."

Ulrika explained: "I sometimes use filters in my pics because it's easier than foundation and less painful.

"I work tirelessly in my garden year-round and often in the sun. I rarely sunbathe any more. Haven't had a sun bed for 6 months - which I do occasionally in winter months. Not ashamed.

"I have not had a holiday - of any kind - since 2018. That's 7yrs. So, I understand that an over-tanned, imperfect and AGEING face offends you. But try to listen to the words rather than constantly judge women's appearance. You might learn something. And making people feel s*** doesn't make you a hero."

During the podcast appearance, Ulrika spoke on her sobriety journey, what her life looks like as a recovering alcoholic and how she approaches dating without drinking.

To which she revealed: "Not having a drink and going on a date, it's hard, it's really hard because people are not as attractive," before adding about herself after drink "you just become a little bit more available I guess, it is easier."