Alex Best (née Pursey) is widely recognised as the former wife of football legend George Best, but her story extends far beyond that association. Often described as resilient, loyal, and quietly dignified, Alex has spent much of her adult life navigating fame, personal heartbreak, and public curiosity, while maintaining a strong sense of identity. This biography-style profile explores her life in depth, from her early years and marriage to George Best to her later reflections on love, loss, and legacy.
Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Alex Best (née Pursey) |
| Date of Birth | 1971 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 55 years old |
| Birthplace | England, United Kingdom |
| Nationality | British |
| Height | Approximately 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
| Hair Colour | Blonde |
| Eye Colour | Blue |
| Education | Educated in England (exact institutions not publicly disclosed) |
| Profession | Former air hostess, media personality, public speaker |
| Family | Former spouse – George Best; no biological children |
| Estimated Net Worth | £1–2 million (estimated) |
| Known For | Marriage to George Best, candid discussions about life with alcohol addiction, and media interviews following his death |
Early Life and Education
Alex Pursey was born in England in 1971 and spent her formative years away from the glare of public attention that would later define much of her adult life. Raised in a relatively ordinary environment, Alex’s early life was marked by structure, discipline, and independence. Those who have spoken about her background often describe her as grounded and emotionally intuitive, qualities that would later play a significant role in her relationships.
While detailed records of her schooling remain private, Alex is believed to have received a standard British education. From a young age, she showed an interest in travel, people, and communication. These interests naturally guided her towards a career in aviation, a profession that suited her calm manner, organisational skills, and confidence. Friends from her early years have described her as sociable yet thoughtful, with a strong sense of empathy that made her both approachable and resilient.
Personal and Family Life
Alex’s life changed dramatically in the early 1990s when she met George Best, one of the most famous footballers in the world. George, already a global sporting icon by that time, was known as much for his extraordinary talent as for his turbulent personal life. Their relationship quickly became serious, and in 1995, Alex married George, becoming his second wife.
The marriage placed Alex firmly in the public eye. Life with George Best was glamorous on the surface but deeply challenging behind closed doors. George’s long-standing battle with alcoholism cast a constant shadow over their relationship. Alex later described their marriage as emotionally intense, comparing George’s behaviour to “Jekyll and Hyde,” with alcohol dramatically altering his personality.
The couple did not have children together, a fact Alex has spoken about with quiet reflection rather than regret. Instead, much of her emotional energy was devoted to caring for and supporting George through repeated attempts at recovery. Their marriage ultimately ended in 2004, following years of strain linked to his addiction. Despite the divorce, Alex remained close to George and continued to offer support until his death in 2005.
Career Journey
Before becoming known to the public, Alex built a respectable career as an air hostess, a role that allowed her to travel widely and interact with people from all walks of life. The job required emotional intelligence, patience, and composure under pressure—skills that would later prove invaluable.
Following her marriage to George Best, Alex stepped away from traditional employment and found herself navigating the complex world of celebrity culture. While she did not pursue fame aggressively, she became a recognised figure in the British media, particularly after George’s health declined. In the years following his death, Alex appeared in interviews, documentaries, and talk shows, offering honest insights into life with addiction and the realities of loving someone deeply troubled.
Her media presence has always been characterised by restraint. Rather than sensationalism, Alex focused on truthful storytelling, often emphasising compassion and understanding over blame. She has also taken part in discussions around addiction awareness, using her personal experience to shed light on the emotional toll faced by partners and families.
Life Challenges and Turning Points
The defining challenge of Alex Best’s life was undoubtedly her relationship with George Best. Living alongside addiction required emotional strength, adaptability, and resilience. Alex has spoken openly about the unpredictability of their daily life, describing periods of hope followed by devastating relapses.
The 2004 divorce marked a significant turning point. While painful, it also represented a moment of self-preservation. Alex has acknowledged that loving someone does not always mean staying at any cost. George’s death in November 2005, following complications related to alcoholism and organ failure, was another profound moment in her life.
In the years that followed, Alex shared deeply personal accounts of what she described as spiritual experiences, including unexplained household disturbances that she believed were signs of George’s presence. While such claims drew mixed reactions, Alex framed them as comforting rather than dramatic, offering insight into how she processed her grief.
Current Life and Career
Today, Alex Best lives a largely private life, choosing peace and distance from constant media exposure. She has not remarried and has expressed contentment with a quieter existence. While she occasionally participates in interviews or public discussions about George Best’s legacy, she is selective about her appearances.
Alex remains connected to Northern Ireland, where she and George shared some of their happiest moments. She has spoken fondly of returning to places that evoke positive memories, describing them as grounding and healing. Although not heavily active on social media, her name continues to attract interest due to the ongoing fascination with George Best’s life and legacy.
Net Worth and Financial Status
Alex Best’s estimated net worth is between £1 and £2 million. Her financial standing comes from a combination of divorce settlements, inheritance matters, media appearances, and careful financial management over the years. Unlike many figures connected to celebrity culture, Alex is not known for extravagant displays of wealth.
Her lifestyle is generally described as comfortable but understated, favouring privacy and stability over luxury. She has often emphasised that emotional well-being and personal peace matter more to her than material success.
Public Image and Media Presence
In the public eye, Alex Best is widely regarded as dignified, loyal, and emotionally honest. Media portrayals often highlight her patience and strength during years of personal difficulty. Unlike many celebrity spouses, she avoided exploiting her relationship for fame, which has earned her respect among fans and journalists alike.
One of the most distinctive aspects of her public image is her openness about grief and spirituality. While some stories attracted scepticism, many people found her honesty refreshing and human. She is frequently cited as an example of quiet resilience rather than celebrity spectacle.
Fun Facts and Anecdotes
Alex once described George Best as “the most generous man I ever knew when he was sober,” highlighting the contrast between his true personality and the effects of addiction. She has also mentioned that travelling remains one of her greatest comforts, a passion dating back to her days as an air hostess.
Despite her association with fame, Alex has admitted she prefers simple pleasures, such as walking, reading, and spending time near the sea. Friends have noted that she avoids football celebrity circles and rarely attends high-profile sporting events.
Conclusion
Alex Best’s life story is one of strength, loyalty, and self-awareness. While she will always be linked to George Best, her identity is defined just as much by her resilience and integrity. Through years of emotional upheaval, public scrutiny, and personal loss, Alex maintained a sense of dignity that continues to resonate with many people.
Her journey offers a poignant reminder that behind every public icon is a network of private lives shaped by love, struggle, and endurance. Alex Best’s legacy is not one of fame but of humanity.
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(FAQs)
Who is Alex Best?
Alex Best is a British former air hostess and media personality, best known as the former wife of football legend George Best.
When did Alex Best marry George Best?
She married George Best in 1995, and they divorced in 2004.
Did Alex Best have children with George Best?
No, the couple did not have children together.
What does Alex Best do now?
She leads a private life, occasionally giving interviews about George Best’s legacy.
What is Alex Best’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between £1 and £2 million.