Marcus Mumford: 'Who do I admire most among the living? I hate to say it, but it's probably my wife.'

Marcus Mumford: 'Who do I admire most among the living? I hate to say it, but it's probably my wife.'

Marcus Mumford, 39, was born in California and formed the band Mumford & Sons in 2007. Two years later, they released their Brit Award-winning debut album, Sigh No More, which featured the song “Little Lion Man.” In 2013, Babel won Album of the Year at the Grammys, and in 2025, the band earned their third No. 1 album with Rushmere. Their latest release is Prizefighter, and on July 4th, they will perform at BST Hyde Park in London. In 2022, Mumford released a solo album titled Self-Titled. He is married to actress Carey Mulligan, has three children, and lives in the West Country.

Which living person do you most admire, and why?
Sickeningly, it’s probably my wife, because she’s a legend.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Pride.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Pride.

What was your most embarrassing moment?
One of our band’s first TV appearances in America, on The Craig Ferguson Show. I forgot the lyrics to “Little Lion Man” and then broke two strings.

Describe yourself in three words.
Trying quite hard.

What do you most dislike about your appearance?
I’m all right.

What is your most unappealing habit?
Chewing gum.

Who would play you in the film of your life?
Alec Baldwin.

What is the worst thing anyone’s said to you?
“I have it on very good authority he’s a complete cunt.”

What would your superpower be?
Flying.

What makes you unhappy?
Not being able to fly.

What does love feel like?
Freedom.

Have you ever said ‘I love you’ and not meant it?
No.

Which living person do you most despise, and why?
We have a rule in our house where we don’t say hate.

What is the worst job you’ve done?
Working on a farm in Somerset at 18. Some parts were awful, but they were all really edifying. Feeding chickens in sleet was hard work, but I’m so glad I did it.

When did you last cry, and why?
This morning, during a really great conversation with my dad.

What would you like to leave your children?
A spirit of generosity.

What is the closest you’ve ever come to death?
Rolling a quad bike.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life?
Not having my injuries: shoulders, knees, and ankles. I played a lot of contact sports as a kid.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Football Player of the Year, 4th XI, 2002.

What keeps you awake at night?
Infinity. I can’t get my head around it.

How would you like to be remembered?
I don’t care much about legacy externally, but within my family, I do.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Know the things you are responsible for and the things you aren’t.

What happens when we die?
Disneyland times a million.

Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Marcus Mumfords Quote on Admiring His Wife

Q1 What did Marcus Mumford say about his wife
A1 He said Who do I admire most among the living I hate to say it but its probably my wife It was a candid affectionate answer during an interview

Q2 Why did he say I hate to say it Was he being negative
A2 Not at all Its a common humble British turn of phrase He likely meant it feels almost too obvious or cliché to pick his spouse or he didnt want to sound boastful but he was being genuinely heartfelt

Q3 Who is Marcus Mumfords wife
A3 His wife is actress Carey Mulligan They married in 2012 and have two children

Q4 Is Marcus Mumford still married to Carey Mulligan
A4 Yes as of the latest public information they are still married and have been together for over a decade

Q5 When and where did he say this
A5 He made the comment in a 2022 interview with British GQ magazine discussing his solo album and personal life

Q6 What was the context of the interview Was he promoting something
A6 Yes he was promoting his first solo album which dealt with deeply personal themes including trauma and healing The question about admiration fit into discussions about his support system

Q7 Why is this quote getting attention
A7 It stands out for its raw honesty and simplicity In a world of polished celebrity answers his slight reluctance made the admiration feel more genuine and relatable

Q8 Has Carey Mulligan publicly responded to this quote
A8 Theres no widely published direct response from her to this specific quote but they have both often spoken publicly about their mutual support and admiration in other interviews

Q9 Is this quote representative of their relationships public image
A9 Yes They are known for being a very private but solid couple Both have frequently credited each other as their biggest supporters and sources of strength avoiding Hollywood drama

Q10 Did fans react positively to the quote
A10 Overwhelmingly yes