Jake Quickenden has opened up about the challenges of pursuing his dreams while raising a young family. 

The 36-year-old singer's career has flourished since his time on The X Factor, with notable appearances on Dancing On Ice and I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!

However, in recent years, the ex-footballer has found a new passion for acting. 

Currently touring with the production Rita, Sue and Bob Too! alongside stars like Jessica Ellis, Warren Donnelly, and Siobhan Phillips, Jake kicked off the show this month, with performances running through to April in Liverpool.

However, after his first performance in St. Helens, where he received a standing ovation, Jake admitted to The Mirror that touring presents its own set of challenges.

Jake revealed that it's 'hard' to be away from his two young sons, Freddie and Leo. However, he is happy that he can still see their faces everyday via FaceTime. 

He said: 'It's hard. But there's so many parents who have to work away in all lines of work, and it can be tough. But we’ve got FaceTime now which is great, so we get to see their faces every day.' 

Despite missing his family, Jake emphasised that his motivation stems from his desire to be a positive role model for his children. 

He shared: 'I just want to be a decent role model for my kids, and if they see me working away and trying to better myself then hopefully that will rub off on them. And as hard as it is being away, it’s not forever.'

Jake also praised his wife, Sophie Church, whom he married in 2022, saying: 'I’ve got to work, and I’ve got an amazing wife at home who understands and is just the captain of the ship' 

Acknowledging the emotional strain, Jake admitted that, like anyone, he has 'down days' when he can’t see his loved ones but tries to focus on the bigger picture. 

He reiterated that he wants to show his sons that 'you need to work in life' and that 'nothing comes easy'. 

Though Jake is enjoying his new acting career, the transition hasn't been without its struggles.

He admitted to experiencing 'imposter syndrome' in the acting world, surrounded by talented professionals who have years of training. 

When asked if acting was always his ultimate goal, Jake confessed that he never really knew what he wanted to do. 

But the star admitted that he likes to entertain and have a laugh while trying new things.

So, he took part in football, was a bricklayer, and even worked in McDonalds and Topman before appearing on the X Factor.

But everything changed when Jake unexpectedly auditioned for the musical Hair and landed the role. 

Now, he has his sights set on the West End or a role in one of the soaps.