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Karl Bushby walked the world for 28 years. His ex-wife did the parenting - so who’s the real hero here?

The Independent • November 4, 2026 • world

Key Points:

Karl Bushby returned home after 28 years, completing a 50,000km walk around the world, and was welcomed as a hero in Hull by local officials and crowds.
Bushby’s long absence meant missing much of his son Adam’s childhood, who was raised entirely by his ex-wife Angela, highlighting the family sacrifices behind such personal quests.
The article discusses the gendered double standards in adventuring, where men’s exploits are celebrated while women often bear the invisible, unpaid domestic and emotional labor.
Contemporary male explorers express guilt over family absences but continue their pursuits, whereas some, like British skipper Alex Thomson, are choosing to prioritize family and share domestic responsibilities more equally.
The piece calls for more balanced relationships where both partners share domestic duties, allowing women equal opportunities to pursue their own goals and adventures.

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