Britain's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden has candidly shared the unconventional secret behind her long-lasting marriage to husband Chris Hughes, a partnership that has now spanned over seventeen years.
The 'Controversial' Formula for Marital Longevity
In a revealing discussion, the 54-year-old television and radio presenter outlined what she described as a 'very controversial' approach to keeping a marriage strong. Holden, who wed music manager Chris Hughes in Somerset in 2008, stressed the importance of prioritising the couple's bond above all else, even amidst the chaos of family life.
'Everyone gets wrapped up with their children and their schedules and all the drama around your children when they're growing up,' she explained to Closer Magazine. 'But you have to remember that you and your husband were together first.'
She emphasised that actively investing in that primary relationship is crucial, not just for the couple's own happiness but for the stability of the entire family unit. Holden pointed out that this perspective, while perhaps contentious to some, is actually backed by relationship research.
Leading 'Separate Lives' Within a Happy Union
This advice comes months after Holden made headlines by admitting that she and Chris lead largely 'separate lives' due to their demanding careers and individual interests. On her Heart Radio show, she clarified that this separation is a conscious choice that works for them.
'Our lives have been very separate for a long time because we're both very busy,' she stated. 'Obviously, we're very happily married, but we do lots of things separately. I love my Peloton and running, he goes and plays squash.'
The couple, who have been together since meeting in Los Angeles in 2003, share two daughters: Lexi, 19, and Hollie, 13. Despite their independent schedules, they maintain a strong family home.
Finding New Ways to Connect
In a bid to carve out more shared time, Hughes recently suggested they take up badminton together. Holden, who expressed enthusiasm for the sport, revealed they were set to play their first proper match. 'We often play it in the summer in the back garden and with the kids,' she shared with listeners in February. 'It's such a good game... I love the noise.'
This isn't the first time Holden has opened up about the foundations of her marriage. In a past interview, she cited a brilliant sense of humour as essential and confessed to still finding her husband incredibly attractive, even after two decades together.
As the couple celebrates 17 years of marriage, having marked the milestone without traditional gift-giving, Amanda Holden's message is clear: a successful long-term partnership requires deliberate effort, mutual respect for independence, and never taking the spark for granted.
