Vernon Kay has revealed that he was initially drawn to Tess Daly's independence when they first met, as it has come to light that the once-solid couple were leading separate lives prior to their separation. The pair announced their split on Friday, stating that they had struggled with the decision but remain committed to co-parenting their daughters, Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16.
Their Early Romance
Vernon and Tess began dating in 2001 after meeting while working together. Vernon proposed on Christmas Day the following year. Reflecting on their first encounter, Vernon told The Telegraph: "She didn't know anyone except me because we'd worked together that day – she spotted me in a crowd and we had a laugh. I was instantly attracted by how independent Tess was, and that's not changed at all." They married in September 2003 in Horwich, Lancashire, near where Vernon grew up.
Living Separate Lives
A source close to the couple revealed that they had been living separate lives for some time. "Basically, without meaning to, they've been living separate lives. They don't really do much together any more, they have different interests and hobbies. They had grown apart. They acknowledged that and decided that life would be better if they were to split," the source told Daily Mail.
The couple released a joint statement, saying: "After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably. This has not been an easy choice, but it comes from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire of what is best for both of us. We remain great friends and, most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents, which will always be our priority. There are no other parties involved in this decision. We kindly ask for privacy during this time."
Friends React to the News
Friends of the couple were stunned by the announcement. One said: "When Vernon told me, I was stunned, I didn't see it coming, nobody did. This is going to take some getting used to." However, insiders say the decision was made after significant deliberation, with their daughters fully involved in the conversations. "Tess and Vernon are actually really, really happy now. They're still living together for now though that will of course change in the near future. The girls were very much part of the decision. They had grown apart, they are different to when they first met. They acknowledged that and decided life would be better if they were to split. They are both in their 50s, they have so much time left and they have decided they would be happier not being together so that's what they've done. It is all very, very amicable," a friend explained.
Past Controversies
The couple had weathered past storms, including Vernon's "sexting" scandal with Page 3 model Rhian Sugden in 2010. Tess was devastated but chose to forgive him and save their marriage. Rhian later said: "He just got away with it. It ruined everything for me." Vernon admitted to sending flirty messages to multiple women, calling himself an "idiot" but not a "sex pest." The scandal damaged his career, costing him his role on Family Fortunes.
Current Situation
Despite the split, both remain at their marital home in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire. Divorce lawyers have not yet been instructed, but sources say they will be in due course. Tess recently stepped down from hosting Strictly Come Dancing after 20 years, while Vernon continues his radio and television work.
