Stuart Hogg’s Exeter Chiefs bosses shut down secret girlfriend’s pleas for help amid campaign of abuse

Stuart Hogg’s Secret Relationship Unveiled by Exeter Chiefs Amid Abuse Allegations

Stuart Hogg, the former Scotland captain, has been embroiled in a scandal as his secret relationship with Jilly O’Donnell was brought to light. O’Donnell shared her desperate pleas for help as she faced harassment and unwanted messages from Hogg, who was also convicted of a campaign of abuse against his wife. Despite O’Donnell reaching out to the Premiership side Exeter Chiefs for assistance, the club dismissed her concerns. O’Donnell, who believed Hogg was separated from his wife, expressed her disappointment in the lack of support from the club.

Hogg, once lauded as a Scottish rugby star, confessed to a five-year abusive relationship with his estranged wife, Gillian, and faced charges of harassing O’Donnell after their breakup. O’Donnell, a student nurse from Newcastle, detailed her distress after seeking help from Exeter Chiefs, only to receive more unwanted communication from Hogg following their conversation. The club’s Chief Operating Officer, Natasha Pavis, declined to intervene in players’ personal lives, leaving O’Donnell feeling unsupported.

The relationship between Hogg and O’Donnell began during the pandemic in 2020 when they met on social media. Despite Hogg’s assurances of being separated from his wife, O’Donnell later discovered the truth through a TV interview where Hogg revealed his wife’s pregnancy. Hogg, who played for Exeter Chiefs from 2019 to 2023, earning a substantial salary, retired from professional rugby and returned to Scotland with his family in 2023.

O’Donnell described Hogg as manipulative, often blaming alcohol for his actions and refusing to take responsibility for his behaviour. Hogg’s admission of attending a rehabilitation centre earlier this year highlighted his struggles with alcohol and mental health. O’Donnell painted a picture of a troubled individual who sought validation and sympathy, despite his harmful actions towards others.

Hogg’s abusive behaviour towards his wife, including shouting, swearing, and tracking her movements, culminated in a court case where he acknowledged his wrongdoing. O’Donnell, on the other hand, was denied the opportunity to testify against Hogg due to a plea deal with prosecutors. Both Exeter Chiefs and Hogg chose not to comment on the matter, leaving O’Donnell to share her story and seek closure.

In conclusion, the revelations surrounding Stuart Hogg’s abusive relationships and manipulative behaviour shed light on the complexities of personal struggles faced by public figures. O’Donnell’s courage in speaking out against the mistreatment she endured serves as a reminder of the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their status or achievements in society.