My Mum, Your Dad's Paul discusses split with Natalie following return to ITV show

ITV My Mum, Your dad star Paul has opened up about his split with season one star Natalie as he prepares to return to the mansion in the latest instalment of the dating show.

On Thursday's episode of This Morning, presenters Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley were joined by My Mum, Your Dad's first season participant Paul and his daughter Mazey.

Paul became a fan favourite on the ITV programme last year when he formed a romantic connection with fellow single parent Natalie. Despite the initial sparks, their relationship seems to have cooled off, as Paul is preparing to re-enter the mansion.

Reflecting on his time with Natalie, Paul told the two presenter: "In the house, it's kind of like a holiday. You've got no real life. So, when we come out we had a good few months but we just unfortunately weren't compatible. We had a good nice few months together though."

When probed by Cat about his reasons for returning to the dating show, Paul expressed an openness to possibilities, stating that he doesn't want to close the door on any opportunity because you never know what will happen, reports the Mirror.

Mazey, when asked about her reaction to being invited back to the show, enthusiastically said: "I was like 100%!"

She revealed that her father was quite reserved during the initial weeks of the first season and didn't quite seem himself until later on. Mazey explained to Ben and Cat she believed the workshops were beneficial and saw them as another reason to return.

Paul opened up about his return to the spotlight, admitting an evident transformation in his approach, he said: "I went in there and this time around I was completely myself. It was almost like walking into my home, getting my slippers on, getting the cigar out, it just felt so comfortable.Whereas in season one, I went in and I didn't know what to expect and I closed up. I saw the cameras and it was just very daunting."

When Ben queried whether Paul had been able to offer guidance to the new cast given his previous experience, Paul acknowledged that he became a pillar of support for the single parents on set who were feeling anxious.

He added: "My shoulder was there for them. I was like, I felt exactly the same last year just give it a few days and relax then it'll make it a lot easier. I formed a friendship with them a lot quicker as well, for that reason."

Despite the fact that things did not end romantically with Natalie, Paul hinted at a blossoming interest within the mansion's walls, coyly speaking about Steph. With restrained excitement, Paul said: "She is a very interesting lady, when she's in a room she kind of owns the room and I think everyone appreciates that, she's a very nice lady."

My Mum, Your Dad is available to watch on ITVX.

This Morning continues weekdays on ITV from 10am.