Lily Allen opens up about ex David Harbour’s relationship with her daughters

Singer says she deliberately keeps her distance when it comes to how her daughters and ex stay connected

Lily Allen has opened up about her ex-husband David Harbour’s relationship with her two daughters following their separation, explaining that she deliberately keeps her distance when it comes to how they stay connected.

The singer, who shares daughters Ethel, 14, and Marnie, 12, with her former husband Sam Cooper, spoke candidly about Harbour’s continued contact with the girls after the end of her marriage to the Stranger Things actor.

“I stay out of it,” Allen said when asked about Harbour’s relationship with her children. “They’ve both got phones. They all text each other.”

Allen made it clear that she does not attempt to manage or control those interactions, choosing instead to allow the relationship to continue naturally. She emphasized that her focus remains on supporting her daughters without complicating their connections.

The comments come amid heightened public interest in Allen’s personal life following her recent split from Harbour after four years of marriage. While aspects of the relationship have been reflected in her recent music, Allen said she has learned difficult lessons from past experiences.

“I’ve learned how horrible it is to be on the receiving end of that,” she said, speaking broadly about relationship pain and emotional growth.

Despite the challenges of navigating life after divorce, Allen has stressed the importance of maintaining stability for her children. By stepping back, she allows them space to sustain their own bond with Harbour without pressure or interference.

Her remarks reflect a hands-off, respectful approach to post-divorce family dynamics, one centered on prioritizing her daughters’ well-being while keeping clear boundaries in her own role.