Ian Thorpe breaks silence after long-term ex-partner Ryan Channing’s death

Ian Thorpe has spoken for the first time after the shock death of his former partner Ryan Channing earlier this month.

Swimming legend Ian Thorpe has spoken for the first time since the death of his former long-term partner Ryan Channing.

Channing died at the age of 32 earlier this month in Bali.

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Channing, who previously dated Olympic swimmer Ian Thorpe, was rushed to hospital on May 6 after fainting in a Bali villa, where he had been holidaying with family.

Two days later, he died in BIMC Hospital in Kuta, where police confirmed to Daily Mail Australia he was being treated for an “overdose of prescription medication” although the cause of death has yet to be officially confirmed.

Police also said the death was not being treated as suspicious.

Ryan Channing and Ian Thorpe as seen on Instagram posts. Pic: Instagram @ryanchanning

While tributes have flowed for Channing in the days since his death, Thorpe shared his feelings publicly for the first time in an interview with The Daily Telegraph.

“This is a relationship that I had that was a long-term relationship and I feel for Ryan’s family,” Thorpe said.

“I hope people are able to respect their privacy as well. I think when it is someone that is so young, it is tragic for anyone to see them passing at that kind of age.”

Channing was Thorpe’s first official partner after coming out as gay in an interview with Michael Parkinson following years of speculation.

Channing and Thorpe started dating in 2015 before going their separate ways in June, 2019.

The pair were vocal during the marriage equality plebiscite and had explored options to have their first child with the help of a surrogate in the US.

Ryan Channing and Ian Thorpe as seen on Instagram posts. Pic: Instagram @ryanchanning

Channing was a model and skincare entrepreneur, who founded The Blaq Group – which is the largest skincare exporter in Australia.

In an emotional tribute, the company, remembered Channing for his “fun loving spirit”.

Channing’s mother Joy who sat by his bedside during the businessman’s final days, made a statement thanking “everyone for their overwhelming love and support” through the “tragic time”.

In a tribute to her son, Mrs Channing said he “lived life to the fullest”.

“Constantly surrounded by excitement and creativity, with an undeniable drive to seek perfection in everything,” she wrote on Instagram.

“To be part of Ryan’s world, and to be swept up in his adventures and triumphs was a privilege for all of us.”

The family held two memorials in Bali: a dinner to remember the 32 year old, and another on the sand of Kuta beach where lanterns were lit and friends held a banner with Channing’s face.