Tess Daly and Vernon Kay announce separation after 22 years of marriage

Tess Daly and Vernon Kay confirm split after 22 years, saying decision was mutual and amicable in joint statement

Tess Daly and Vernon Kay have announced that they are separating after 22 years of marriage, confirming the news in a joint statement shared on Instagram.

The former Strictly Come Dancing presenter and the BBC Radio 2 host said their decision was made “after much consideration” and came from a place of “mutual understanding and a shared desire for what is best for both of us.” The couple married in September 2003.

In their statement, Daly and Kay emphasized that the separation is amicable and not the result of any external involvement. They also stressed that they remain close and continue to support each other as they move forward.

Photo: Instagram

“After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably,” the couple wrote. They added that it “has not been an easy choice” but one made with clarity and respect.

The pair also highlighted their continued commitment to their family, stating they remain “fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents, which will always be our priority.” They requested privacy as they navigate this transition and confirmed they will not be making further public comments.

Tess Daly is best known for co-hosting Strictly Come Dancing alongside Claudia Winkleman until her departure in 2025. That same year, she was awarded an MBE for services to broadcasting.

Vernon Kay has been a prominent voice on BBC Radio 2 since taking over the weekday morning show in 2023, making it one of the most listened-to radio programmes in the UK.

The announcement marks the end of one of British entertainment’s longest-running celebrity marriages.