Former EastEnders star Forbes Masson has announced his separation from his wife Melanie, a singer who rose to fame on The X Factor, after more than 25 years together. The actor, known for roles in EastEnders, Red Dwarf, Taggart, and Netflix's The Crown, shared the news with a 'sore heart' on social media.
Forbes Masson's Emotional Announcement
In a post on Instagram and Facebook, Forbes wrote: 'It is with a deep sadness and a very heavy and sore heart that I have to announce that after over 25 years together, Melanie and I are going our separate ways. I wish Melanie only love and happiness and hope she finds it. It has been a very difficult decision for both of us. Sorry to family members and close friends who are finding out this way.'
Hours later, he added: 'Thanks to all my pals for your kind and caring responses to the announcement today. Rest assured, I am fine and in the glorious highlands. Melanie seems fine, too. I am not really up to talking about this to folk yet, so please don't be upset if I don't respond directly to messages or calls. I have Ramsay with me and I am hard at work on Lear at Pitlochry. It will obviously take a while to process and grieve which I will do in my own time. I have tremendous support from close friends, who I can never thank enough in this difficult time.'
Support from Fellow Celebrities
The post received an outpouring of support, including from actress Amanda Abbington, who shared three red heart emojis, and EastEnders legend Tamzin Outhwaite, who commented with a single heart. Fans also expressed sympathy, with one writing: 'So sad to hear this. Wishing you both strength and healing through this journey.' Another said: 'Sending love and best wishes to you both at this difficult time.'
Forbes Masson's Career Highlights
Forbes is best known for his role as Rodney Morris on EastEnders in 2000. The storyline saw Rodney help Nicky di Marco with her maths GCSE, but later kiss her and sexually assault her. He was arrested but avoided prison after the di Marco family dropped charges. Forbes also appeared as photographer Duncan Muir in series six of The Crown and co-created the Scottish comedy series The High Life with Alan Cumming.
Melanie's X Factor Journey and Career
Melanie gained fame on the 2012 series of The X Factor, competing in the over-28s category and becoming the second contestant eliminated in the live shows. Since then, she has built a successful career as a session vocalist, working with acts like Stereophonics, Kasabian, and Fatboy Slim, and performing in West End musical theatre.
The couple's split marks the end of a long relationship, with both seemingly handling the separation with grace and mutual respect.
