“AFTER 23 YEARS… IT’S OVER”: Tess Daly & Vernon Kay SPLIT in Shock Showbiz Twist - G

The ones who survived scandal…

The ones everyone thought would last forever.

But now—

It’s officially over.

Tess Daly and Vernon Kay have split after 23 years of marriage, confirming the heartbreaking news in a joint statement that has stunned fans across the UK.

And despite the calm words…

The impact is huge.

Tess Daly and Vernon Kay have split after 23 years of marriage, the Daily Mail can reveal

“After much consideration… we have made the decision to separate amicably,” the couple said—emphasising their “deep care and respect” for one another and their commitment to their daughters.

A dignified message.

But behind it?

A long, emotional journey.

Because this wasn’t sudden.

In a heartbreaking statement, the two revealed they had decided to split after 'much consideration, and a deep sense of care and respect for one another'

Sources reveal the couple spent a “significant” amount of time coming to terms with the decision—carefully discussing their future, even involving their daughters Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16, in the process.

A family-first approach…

Even in heartbreak.

“They had grown apart,” an insider shared.

Not dramatically.

Not explosively.

Just… gradually.

Until one day, they realised something difficult:

They might be happier apart.

Newlyweds Tess Daly and Vernon Kay leave St Mary's Church, Horwich, Bolton on their wedding day

A painful truth.

But an honest one.

And while fans may be shocked, those closest to them insist the split is completely amicable—with no third party involved, no scandal, and no bitterness.

In fact…

“They’re actually really, really happy now,” a friend revealed.

A surprising twist.

But one that speaks to a deeper reality:

Sometimes, letting go is the healthiest choice.

Tess 'want[ed] to be a bit selfish' as she felt like she had 'missed out' on travelling due to working since her teens, a source said: 'She is desperate to have a grown-up gap year'

The pair—who first met in 2001 while working on TV together—built a life filled with success, laughter, and resilience.

They weathered storms, including Vernon’s infamous 2010 sexting scandal, which Tess ultimately chose to forgive.

They stayed strong.

They kept going.

For over two decades.

But time changes people.

And now, both in their 50s, they’ve chosen a different path—one that allows them to grow individually, while still remaining united as parents.

For now, they are still living together in their Buckinghamshire home—but that is expected to change as they begin this new chapter.

Their split comes after reports they were 'entering a new chapter in their marriage' after she quit her Strictly Come Dancing hosting job after 21 years