It comes after the former celebrity couple made the shock announcement about the end of their marriage after 22 years
Vernon Kay and Tess Daly have separated after more than two decades together(Image: Instagram)
Vernon Kay has addressed his and Tess Daly’s split live on his BBC Radio 2 show, just days after the former couple made the shock announcement about the end of their marriage.
The Bolton-born TV and radio presenter and the former Strictly Come Dancing host, who hails from Stockport, issued a statement on Friday (May 8) confirming their separation after 22 years of marriage, during which they welcomed two daughters, Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16.
Shared to their Instagram Stories, Tess and Vernon’s statement read: “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 for what is best for both of us.
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“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 as we navigate this transition together.”
And now, Vernon, 52, has thanked fans for their support on his BBC Radio 2 show on Monday (May 11) morning, saying during his programme’s crossover with current Breakfast host Gary Davies: “I just want to say on behalf of myself and Tess, thank you, thank you for all your well-wishes, it’s been greatly appreciated.”
Vernon and Tess confirmed the end of their marriage after 22 years(Image: Tess Daly Instagram)
The presenting pair met while working for rival channels in 2001, apparently crossing paths at a BBC Christmas party. “It was all quite immediate, really, because we instantly had such a blast together,” Tess once told The Sun’s Fabulous Magazine of her and Vernon’s connection. “I couldn’t imagine having more fun with anyone else. It was pretty explosive, I tell you.”
Two years later, Vernon got down on one knee and proposed at her parents’ home in Stockport on Christmas Day. Tess told the Bolton News at the time: “I was so shocked and surprised, but I am truly over the moon. It’s the best Christmas present I’ve ever had.”
But their marriage was hit by scandal in 2010, when it emerged that Vernon had sent texts to other women. He admitted to sending flirty messages to “four or five girls” during that period, but a spokesperson for the star said at the time: “They never at any point had a physical sexual relationship.”
“I’ve let down my wife Tess. I’m an idiot,” he told Radio 1 listeners in the aftermath. “I’ve been stupid and daft but I’m not a sex pest. I’m glad this story has come out. It feels like a weight has been lifted from my shoulders.”