Jake Quickenden has opened up about the emotional turmoil following his split from wife Sophie Church, describing a week of 'ups and downs' in a reflective social media post. The 37-year-old singer, presenter, and actor revealed last month that his four-year marriage had ended, and he is now adjusting to single life while co-parenting their three children.
Family Focus Amid Personal Turmoil
On Sunday, Quickenden shared a collection of photographs on Instagram, many featuring his sons: five-year-old Leo, one-year-old Kit, and his stepson Freddie, whom Sophie welcomed in a previous relationship. The images showed the family enjoying sunbathing, dining out, exploring woodland, and relaxing together, with the former I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! runner-up also posting topless gym selfies.
In an accompanying caption, Quickenden wrote: "It's been a hot week… full of ups and downs. It will all be ok in the end, and if it's not ok it's not the end." He added: "Spent lots of time with the boys this week and it's been super fun, exhausting but fun. Have a great Sunday."
Support from Followers
The post was well received by fans, with many commenting on the happiness of the children despite the recent family change. One follower wrote: "Those smiles on your boys faces when your around them is what life's about," which Quickenden acknowledged. Another encouraged him: "Aw Jake. Keep your head up high. That's what I'm doing. Happiness is somewhere for you." When a fan noted his close bond with Freddie, Quickenden replied humorously: "He's my bro when he's not on Fortnite lol."
Announcement of Separation
Earlier in June, Quickenden publicly announced the separation, explaining that he and Sophie had been apart for a few months. In a social media statement, he said: "Me and Sophie have unfortunately separated… it's been a few months now, tried to keep it private for us to come to terms with it and navigate it properly, while it also involves our beautiful children."
He praised his estranged wife, writing: "Sophie is an amazing person and Mother and we shared some very special moments together that I will always cherish, we have beautiful children together and they will always come first, I have respect and love for her and I want her to succeed in everything she does, I will always have her back." He added that the split was not due to a dramatic incident but "two people growing apart and realising that happiness rests its head somewhere else."
Co-Parenting Commitment
Following the announcement, a source told The Sun: "Jake and Sophie have ended their marriage but they remain incredibly amicable. There is still a huge amount of love and respect between them. Their main priority has always been, and continues to be, their children, and they are fully committed to being the best parents possible."
The source continued: "Over time, they started to grow apart and Jake and Sophie have had some long and honest conversations about this. While they might not be together any more, they are still on great terms and are looking to the future, co-parenting together. Maintaining a happy and supportive family unit together is their focus now."
Quickenden and Church began dating in June 2018 and married in September 2022. The former X Factor star is now focusing on his children and his career, having recently been linked to a potential role on Strictly Come Dancing.
