Top News

Tess Daly and BBC Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay announced their separation in a joint statement shared on Friday. The former Strictly Come Dancing presenter, 57, tied the knot with her former husband over two decades ago, but at the time of their nuptials she received heartbreaking news that left her "completely broken up on the inside."

Tess and Vernon said "I do" in front of their closest friends and family. However, one guest insisted on walking her down the aisle. Her father Vivian Daly, who had been battling emphysema - a chronic and progressive form of lung disease.

Just 18 days later, Vivian sadly died and in the aftermath, Tess admittedly "fell apart". "The show that turned things round for me was Strictly Come Dancing, but no one had any idea how torn up I was when I did that very first show," she told The Mirror.

Recalling the aftermath of his death, she explained: "I fell apart. I miss him so much, every day." She has admitted she is delighted that he got to meet her husband, but said the fact that he was never part of her daughters' lives is her "biggest regret."

"I know my dad was glad to see me with Vernon. Even though he was so ill when we got married he still wanted to walk me up the aisle. I'm glad he got to see us settled."

Tess, who has since quit Strictly, announced her split from Vernon after 23 years of marriage.

"After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably," they posted on Instagram in a joint statement. Their decision had "not been an easy choice", but came "from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire for what is best for both of us".

They added that they "remain great friends and most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents, which will always be our priority". And also clarified that there are "no other parties involved" and asked for privacy "as we navigate this transition together".