Tess Daly and Vernon Kay separating after 22 years of marriage

Tess Daly and Vernon Kay separating – Tess Daly, the former presenter of BBC One’s *Strictly Come Dancing*, and Vernon Kay, a prominent BBC Radio 2 host, have confirmed their decision to end their 22-year marriage. The announcement came as a joint statement shared on Instagram, where they expressed their commitment to maintaining a respectful and amicable relationship moving forward. The pair, who have been together since September 2003, described the split as a thoughtful choice rooted in mutual understanding and a shared vision for their future.

Joint Announcement on Instagram

The couple’s decision to separate was made public through a collaborative message on social media, highlighting their emotional approach to the situation. “After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably,” they wrote. The post emphasized their dedication to preserving their bond as friends and their ongoing partnership as parents, which they said would remain their top priority. They also assured followers that there are “no other parties involved” and that they are seeking privacy to process this transition without unnecessary public attention.

After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably.

22 Years of Partnership

Married in 2003, Tess Daly and Vernon Kay have navigated the challenges of a long-term relationship while balancing their careers in the entertainment industry. Their union, which spanned over two decades, was marked by public appearances and shared responsibilities as both individuals and a couple. The couple’s decision to part ways was described as a “not easy choice,” with Tess Daly and Vernon Kay acknowledging the emotional weight of ending a partnership that had defined significant parts of their lives.

Their announcement comes at a time when both have been deeply involved in their respective roles. Tess Daly, known for her charismatic hosting style, had been a staple of *Strictly Come Dancing* until the show’s final episodes in December 2025. Her departure followed a two-month notice period, during which she and her co-host, Claudia Winkleman, delivered memorable performances. Meanwhile, Vernon Kay has been a central figure in BBC Radio 2’s weekday morning programming since taking over from Ken Bruce in 2023. His show currently holds the distinction of being the most listened to on UK radio, reflecting his established presence in the industry.

Focus on Family and Future Goals

Despite the separation, the couple has stressed their continued support for one another and their children. “We remain great friends and most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents,” they said. This focus on family underscores their determination to keep their personal lives separate while maintaining a cooperative dynamic. The statement also hinted at a shared desire to pursue individual aspirations, which they believe will allow them to grow independently and remain united in their family responsibilities.

Both Tess Daly and Vernon Kay have expressed a desire to avoid further public commentary on the matter. “We will not be making any further public statements,” they added, signaling a shift toward private reflection. This approach aligns with their earlier request for privacy, as they navigate the emotional and logistical aspects of their new arrangement. The couple’s decision to step back from the spotlight reflects their prioritization of personal space and time to adjust to life after their long-term partnership.

Legacy and Industry Contributions

Throughout their marriage, Tess Daly and Vernon Kay have left a lasting impact on the media landscape. Tess Daly, who has been a household name since her early days in television, was honored with an MBE in November 2025 for her contributions to broadcasting. This recognition highlights her dedication to the industry and the influence she has had over the years. Vernon Kay, on the other hand, has been a consistent presence on BBC Radio 2, where his programs have garnered a loyal audience. His transition to hosting the weekday morning show in 2023 marked a new chapter in his career, one that has solidified his reputation as a respected broadcaster.

The couple’s decision to split may also signal a new phase in their professional lives. Tess Daly’s departure from *Strictly Come Dancing* in December 2025 followed a period of transition, during which she balanced her responsibilities to the show with her personal life. Vernon Kay’s continued success on Radio 2 suggests that their separation does not diminish their individual achievements. Instead, it appears to be a natural progression as both seek to explore new opportunities and redefine their paths outside of their marital union.

Public and Private Lives

The couple’s announcement has sparked discussions about the balance between their public personas and private lives. Tess Daly and Vernon Kay have long been associated with the UK’s television and radio scenes, often appearing together in media events and interviews. Their joint statement, however, underscores a growing emphasis on personal space. “As we navigate this transition together, we asked for privacy,” they noted, a sentiment that resonates with their history of maintaining a low-key, family-focused lifestyle.

While their separation is a significant moment, it also highlights their resilience and adaptability. The couple’s ability to remain supportive of one another, even as they step apart, speaks to their strong foundation. Their shared commitment to their children and careers has been a constant throughout their marriage, and this decision seems to be a reflection of that dedication. As they move forward, both Tess Daly and Vernon Kay will continue to be active in their fields, with their individual journeys now taking center stage.

Looking Ahead

The end of their marriage does not mark the conclusion of their stories. Tess Daly, who has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for years, will likely continue to engage with audiences through her work. Vernon Kay, whose radio show has become a cornerstone of BBC Radio 2’s programming, will also maintain his presence in the media. The couple’s separation is portrayed as a step toward personal fulfillment, with both parties expressing confidence in their future endeavors.

As the public absorbs the news of their split, the focus will remain on their ability to coexist respectfully. The joint statement’s tone of optimism and unity suggests that their relationship, though ending, will not be defined by conflict. Instead, it is framed as a mutual decision to prioritize their individual growth while keeping their family intact. This narrative aligns with their public image as balanced and dedicated professionals who have managed their careers and personal life with care.

The couple’s announcement serves as a reminder of the complexities of long-term partnerships in high-profile careers. Tess Daly and Vernon Kay’s journey, spanning two decades, has been one of collaboration and shared success. Now, as they part ways, the spotlight shifts to their individual paths, with the hope that they will continue to thrive and inspire in their respective fields. Their separation, while notable, is a testament to their enduring respect for one another and their commitment to making the best choices for their future.