Stephanie Thirkill is a successful British businesswoman best known as the partner of rugby league player Richie Myler and the mother of their two young children. The daughter of prominent Leeds businessman and former Leeds Rhinos president Andrew Thirkill, she has built her own career in marketing and equity release while maintaining a relatively private life away from the spotlight.
Quick Facts About Stephanie Thirkill
- Born: December 1989 (age around 36)
- Profession: Non-Executive Director and Marketing professional in the retirement/equity release sector
- Partner: Richie Myler (Leeds Rhinos and other clubs)
- Children: Daughter Olivia and son Freddie (with Richie Myler)
- Education: Degree in Retail Marketing Management from Leeds Metropolitan University
- Family: Daughter of Andrew Thirkill, a wealthy Yorkshire entrepreneur
Who Is Stephanie Thirkill?
Stephanie Thirkill grew up in a family deeply connected to business and rugby league in Leeds. Her father, Andrew Thirkill, built a significant reputation as a successful entrepreneur, particularly in the equity release and retirement planning industry through companies like Age Partnership. Stephanie followed in professional footsteps by joining the family business while developing her own expertise.
She earned a degree in Retail Marketing Management and started working at Age Partnership Group Limited as a Senior Market Executive. Over time, she advanced to Direct Communications Marketing Manager and later took on the role of Non-Executive Director. She has also served as a director for Advice Wise Limited, another firm focused on client advice for equity release plans.
Those who know her describe Stephanie as a rugby league fan who values hard work and family. She keeps a low public profile compared to her high-profile relationship but has occasionally shared glimpses of her life on social media.
Her Relationship with Richie Myler
Stephanie Thirkill and Richie Myler began dating around May 2022, shortly after Myler’s separation from his ex-wife, TV presenter Helen Skelton. The couple went public with their relationship through social media posts, including romantic trips and family moments.
In early 2023, they welcomed their first child together, daughter Olivia. Their son Freddie arrived in 2024. Richie has publicly praised Stephanie on her birthdays, calling her “the most wonderful person I know.” The family appears settled in the Leeds area, with rugby league remaining a central part of their lives.
Stephanie Thirkill’s Business Background
Unlike many who gain attention through celebrity relationships, Stephanie built a professional foundation before her relationship with Myler became public. Her work centers on helping people with retirement planning and equity release — practical financial services for older homeowners.
Her roles involve marketing strategy and non-executive oversight, contributing to companies that have seen strong growth in the sector. This background reflects a hands-on approach to business, grounded in the family enterprise her father developed over decades.
Andrew Thirkill’s influence extends beyond business into rugby. He served as president of Leeds Rhinos, the club where Richie Myler played for several years, adding another layer of connection between the families.
Life in the Public Eye
Being linked to a well-known rugby player and the daughter of a prominent businessman has brought Stephanie some media attention, especially during the early days of her relationship with Myler. She has faced online commentary and scrutiny, at times asking people to avoid harsh judgments.
Despite this, Stephanie focuses on her family and career. She updated her social media to celebrate becoming a mother of two, showing pride in her growing family. The couple navigates co-parenting situations with Myler’s children from his previous marriage while building their own household.
Timeline of Key Moments
- 1989: Stephanie born in December
- University years: Studies Retail Marketing Management at Leeds Metropolitan University
- Early career: Joins Age Partnership Group
- 2021: Appointed director of Advice Wise Limited
- May 2022: Begins relationship with Richie Myler
- Early 2023: Welcomes daughter Olivia
- 2024: Welcomes son Freddie
- Ongoing: Balances business roles and family life
Why Stephanie Thirkill Stands Out
What makes Stephanie interesting is her balance of professional achievement and personal life. In an era where many gain fame through social media or reality TV, she represents someone who succeeds through education, family business involvement, and quiet determination.
Her story connects business, sport, and family in Yorkshire — a region known for strong community ties and entrepreneurial spirit. While much of the coverage focuses on her relationship, her own career and background provide a fuller picture of a capable, grounded individual.
Stephanie continues her work in the retirement sector while raising her young family. As Richie Myler continues his rugby career and her father remains active in business and sport ventures (including involvement with Hull FC), the Thirkill name stays linked to success across multiple fields.