Rachel McIntyre, 35, from Edinburgh, has captured the public’s attention with her surprising love story. Just a grandmother at 35, she’s found romance with 19-year-old Seskan, who serendipitously entered her life during her holiday to Turkey. Their relationship raises eyebrows, largely due to their significant age difference—Seskan is the same age as Rachel's eldest daughter, Beth.
Sitting on her couch one chilly October evening, Rachel finds herself longing for the warm embrace of her toyboy boyfriend, reminiscing about their first encounter back in June. She was on holiday in Marmaris when she met Seskan, who was working as a waiter at the hotel she stayed at. Their chemistry was instant, and it wasn’t long before they were sharing laughter and swaying to the rhythm of the Turkish seaside, completely ignoring societal norms and expectations.
Rachel admitted her initial hesitation upon learning Seskan's age, saying, “When I realized he was the same age as Beth, I backed off.” Despite her concerns, his persistent charm melted her reservations, leading to long days filled with cycling and hikes before their hearts intertwined. The two spent nearly every moment together during her stay, deepening their bond.
Upon returning home to Edinburgh, Rachel was relentless with her communication with Seskan. They managed to keep their connection alive through FaceTime, and Rachel was determined to return to Turkey, which she did just three months later, taking her younger daughter, Erika, out of school for the week-long trip. “It's been incredibly controversial, but I couldn't care less. Life is too short to be dictated by textbooks,” she declared, highlighting her desire to give her daughter thrilling experiences beyond the classroom walls. “Besides, it’s not often we soak up the sun like this,” she added, recognizing how rare sunshine is back home.
Despite the judgment she anticipates from the naysayers—who might see her romance as foolish—Rachel remains steadfast, believing their love can withstand any scrutiny. She passionately shared her hopes for the future, including another trip planned to Thailand where she looks forward to more shared adventures with Seskan.
“We often get people mistaking Beth and me for twins, so at least I look my age,” she laughs, poking fun at her unconventional life.
Her early entry to motherhood certainly colored her views on parenthood. Rachel recalls becoming pregnant with Beth at just 15 years old and how decisively she chose to keep her baby against the backdrop of teenage chaos. “I was scared, sure, but I wanted her. There were tough times, but I wouldn't change anything for the world.” Over time, Rachel’s life shaped her relationship with her daughter, making them grow closer than most parents and children. Now, she finds joy not just as Beth’s mother but as Alaia's grandmother.
But this blessing came with shockwaves. Rachel shared her concern when Beth told her she was pregnant at 17. “Beth didn’t have the most supportive partner, and I worried for her. But having Alaia filled my heart with joy; I love being a grandma!" she exclaimed enthusiastically.
Describing her new relationship, Rachel emphasizes how it doesn’t define her life. “I refuse to fit the mold—for me, being a grandmother doesn’t mean wearing aprons and knitting. I’m still young and on my feet, working as a model. This lifestyle allows us to travel and experience the world,” she said, sharing her achievements and ambitions freely. Her modelling work has kept her stylish as she navigates the highs and lows of family life.
Rachel is careful to note how their love is authentic. Unlike previous romances where ulterior motives loomed, she paints Seskan as sincere. “He’s not like the others,” she said confidently, sharing how Seskan takes the lead during their outings and never relies on her financially. “He’s kind, clever, and genuinely funny. It’s been so refreshing,” she gushed, amply describing their shared moments.
The whirlwind romance evolved beautifully and grew stronger each day, even with the challenges of distance separating them. Rachel plans future visits, expressing gratitude to her headmistress for allowing Erika to miss school without repercussion. “It’s important for my kids to experience life beyond the classroom; they’re learning more than just Math,” she pointed out, asserting her choices as much more intentional than mere whims.
What stands out most is the community’s reactions to Rachel’s relationship. The surprise on faces when they learn of the age gap cannot be ignored. “You wouldn’t believe the looks I get when I’m asked for ID at the bar!” she chuckled, displaying no shame and keeping her head held high.
Despite the negative attention, her daughters, particularly Beth, quickly warmed to Sesskan, after facing her initial skepticism. Now, they share genuine affection. Rachel goes on to express confidence about her relationship, emphasizing how Seskan respects her decision against having more children. “I love helping out with feeds and nappy changes, but the beauty of being grandma is I can hand them back!” she said with light humor.
Her love story is undeniably unique, and it certainly transcends ordinary expectations. Rachel McIntyre is living proof of love’s limitless possibilities, sparking conversations about age, relationship dynamics, and redefining what family means.
