Vinnie Jones has returned to work on the upcoming celebrity version of 'The X Factor' as he copes with the tragic death of his wife Tanya.
Vinnie Jones and Tanya Jones
The retired soccer player-turned-actor has been left heartbroken following the passing of his 53-year-old spouse Tanya - whom he married in 1994 - on June 7 following a lengthy battle with skin cancer.
Vinnie, 54, had already committed to taking part in the new version of Simon Cowell's talent show and has decided to go ahead with appearance and met with production staff and the other contestants in Hollywood.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "Vinnie had agreed to be part of the show some time ago but that was before he went through the tragedy of losing his wife. Obviously most of the team expected a phone call saying he wouldn't be involved any more. But instead he came along and made it clear he wants to throw himself straight into this project.
"It must be incredibly tough for him right now so the producers gave him the option to delay for as long as he wants. But he's keen to plough on - perhaps something to focus on will help him."
The 'Snatch' star was by Tanya's bedside at their Los Angeles when she passed away, along with their daughter and other family members.
A statement released by Vinnie's management said: "At 8.46am local time in Los Angeles on Saturday July 6, Vinnie Jones's wife, Tanya Jones, passed away after a long illness.
"Tanya passed peacefully at the Jones family home surrounded by Vinnie, their daughter and other family members.
"Vinnie and the family ask for privacy while they go through an understandable period of mourning during this devastating time."
Back in 2013, Vinnie revealed both he and Tanya had been diagnosed with melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. Tanya had previously been treated twice for cervical cancer and had undergone an emergency heart transplant at the age of 21.
'Celebrity X Factor', and an 'All-Star X Factor' featuring past contestants, are set to replace the usual series of 'The X Factor' this year, with rumoured names for the celebrity version including 'TOWIE' favourite Gemma Collins, Jenny 'The Vixen' Ryan from 'The Chase', and Kevin McHale from 'Glee'.
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