Full Breakdown
Tess Daly and Vernon Kay Announce Amicable Separation After Over Two Decades of Marriage
5/9/2026, 6:31:55 AM
Separation Announcement
On 8 May 2024, television presenter Tess Daly and BBC Radio 2 host Vernon Kay posted a joint Instagram statement confirming they are separating after more than 22 years of marriage. The couple described the decision as mutual, amicable, and driven by a shared desire to act in each other’s best interests.
Relationship History and Key Facts
Daly and Kay first met in 2001 on the *Top of the Pops@Play* spin-off, married in September 2003 in Horwich, Bolton, and have two daughters, Phoebe (born Oct 2004) and Amber (born May 2009). Daly co-hosted *Strictly Come Dancing* from 2004 until her 2025 departure, earning an MBE that year; Kay began presenting BBC Radio 2’s weekday morning show in 2023. Sources differ on the daughters’ ages (Phoebe 21/23, Amber 16/19) and on the marriage length (22 or 23 years). Both serve as Marks & Spencer food ambassadors.
Official Statement Summary
The Instagram post said the split follows “much consideration” and a “deep sense of care and respect.” The couple noted the decision was not easy, stemmed from mutual understanding, and affirmed they remain great friends. They reiterated their commitment to parenting, confirmed no third parties were involved, requested privacy, and said they would not make further public comments.
Verbatim Quotes
- “After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably.” — Tess Daly & Vernon Kay, joint Instagram statement
- “This has not been an easy choice, but it comes from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire for what is best for both of us.” — Tess Daly & Vernon Kay, joint Instagram statement
- “ Kay said he was 'very sorry' and had 'been an idiot' and 'let my family down'.” — Vernon Kay, 2010 public apology after sexting allegations
- “It's iconic, and it's in our family's DNA, it really is.” — Vernon Kay, Radio Times interview about *Strictly Come Dancing*
Past Controversy
In 2010 Kay faced a sexting scandal after alleged messages to Page 3 model Rhian Sugden. He publicly apologized, calling his behavior “stupid and daft” and expressing remorse for letting his family down. Daly later said the partnership was “worth fighting for.” The scandal received extensive media coverage, but the couple stayed together for another decade.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Media outlets differ on basic facts: some cite a 22-year marriage, others 23 years. The daughters’ ages are also inconsistent, with Phoebe listed as 21 or 23 and Amber as 16 or 19. No clarification has been issued, leaving these discrepancies unresolved.
Impact and Outlook
The amicable split of two prominent UK media figures attracts public attention, especially as Daly’s departure from *Strictly* coincides with the announcement. Their joint statement reinforces a narrative of respectful separation, potentially influencing attitudes toward celebrity divorces. Sources indicate Daly has considered a “grown-up gap year” of travel after leaving *Strictly*, though Kay’s radio commitments may limit extended time away. Both intend to focus on parenting, maintain privacy, and continue their professional roles without further public comment.
