Ant McPartlin and Lisa Armstrong Reunite After Dog's Death, Ending Eight-Year Silence
In an emotional turn of events, television presenter Ant McPartlin and his ex-wife Lisa Armstrong have reunited for the first time in eight years following the tragic death of their beloved dog, Hurley. The pair, who divorced in 2018 after eleven years of marriage, had reportedly not seen each other face-to-face since their separation until this heartbreaking circumstance brought them together.
A Sudden and Tragic Reunion
The reunion occurred last week after Ant McPartlin abruptly left a launch event for the new series of Britain's Got Talent upon hearing that Hurley, their twelve-year-old chocolate Labrador, had been rushed to the veterinarian. Once at the clinic, Ant, 50, and Lisa, 49, made the devastating joint decision to put the ailing pooch to sleep, setting aside years of acrimony in the process.
The couple adopted Hurley in 2013 and were doting dog parents throughout their marriage. When they split, Hurley became the centre of a bitter custody battle, with Ant allegedly stating that his ex could have "anything but Hurley." He emphasised at the time, "Hurley's welfare comes first and we both love him very much. That's the way it is really."
Joint Custody and a Go-Between
Eventually, it was decided that Ant and Lisa would share joint custody of Hurley, with the dog spending time at both of their homes. Given that the ex-couple wanted no direct contact with each other, it is believed that Ant's television partner, Declan Donnelly, acted as a go-between, ferrying Hurley between residences. This arrangement lasted until Hurley's recent illness and passing.
A source close to the situation revealed, "The one thing they both loved was that dog. The dog brought them together and was like an anchor. Lisa has been very hurt by Ant, but they were able to put that behind them in the vet's office. It was a truce."
Emotional Realisations and Hopes for Healing
The source further described the emotional scene, noting, "There were tears and they both realised that it's been a long time and life is so short. Hopefully they can move on now. Without a doubt that is what friends want. They've wanted Lisa to not be so upset with him for a while now." This reunion has sparked hopes that Hurley's passing may help heal some of the past wounds from their bitter break-up.
While Ant is now happily married to Anne-Marie Corbett, 46, his former personal assistant, with whom he shares a twenty-month-old son named Wilder, Lisa's love life has faced more complications. Earlier this month, it was reported that the Strictly Come Dancing make-up artist had split from her latest boyfriend, actor Grant Kilburn, 34. A source commented, "It's very sad but it wasn't to be."
Public Expressions and Private Grief
On Valentine's Day, Lisa appeared to make a pointed post that some interpreted as a dig at her former flames. The tongue-in-cheek poem read, "Roses are flowers, pebbles are stones. Here's a big shout out to those on their own. Count yourself lucky and try not to sob. Look on the bright side, you're not with a n*b!" While the source admitted it could reference both Ant and Grant, they viewed it positively as a sign Lisa is able to poke fun at her situation. "It was a bit of both, but more about recent events," the source explained. "It was a very funny post and things are softening between her and Ant. She's got a sense of humour and that anger is leaving her."
Since Hurley's death, both Ant and Lisa are said to be struggling with profound grief. Sources indicate Lisa feels "heartbroken," while Ant jetted overseas to mourn privately. Lisa recently posted a poem titled Rainbow Bridge alongside a sweet photo of Hurley's paws as a tribute. The poem reads, "You left paw prints on our hearts from the moment we brought you home, so many wonderful adventures, all the places where we roamed. The rainbow bridge came to call you, our time came to an end, you were never just a dog but always our best friend."
Hurley's Role in Ant's Life
Ant has yet to speak publicly about his loss, but Hurley played a significant role in his life, particularly during tough times such as his battles with drink and prescription drug addiction. In 2019, Ant expressed his deep affection for the Labrador, saying, "There's a loyalty, love and companionship with Hurley you can't describe. He never tells me off and is always pleased to see me."
Following Hurley's passing, a source revealed that the TV star was "in bits" and decided to head abroad because it was too painful to be around Hurley's toys at home. "He's inconsolable," said the source. "He absolutely adored Hurley and, naturally, he's devastated. Hurley has been a part of his life for 12 years, so to lose him like this is crushing."
Looking to the Future
While Ant has two other dogs, maltipoos named Milo and Bumble, friends hope that Lisa, who regularly posted clips of her "baby boy" Hurley online, might consider getting another dog to help cope with her loss. "She's so distraught about Hurley, but she's also such a dog lover and all her friends are saying the best way to get over a dog is to get another one," says the source. "But, you know, losing Hurley was also like saying a final goodbye to Ant."
This poignant reunion marks a significant moment for both Ant McPartlin and Lisa Armstrong, as they navigate their shared grief and the complex emotions surrounding their past relationship, all while honouring the memory of their beloved canine companion.
