Amanda Holden has shared what she describes as a 'very controversial' secret to keeping her marriage to Chris Hughes alive. The couple recently celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary after marrying in Somerset in 2008.
The Britain's Got Talent judge, 54, told Closer Magazine: 'Everyone gets wrapped up with their children and their schedules and all the drama around your children when they're growing up. But you have to remember that you and your husband were together first.' She added that investing in the marital relationship is crucial 'for your children's sake as well as your own', noting that the approach is 'supported by research'.
Amanda and Chris, who have been together for over 20 years, share two daughters: Lexi, 19, and Hollie, 13. The couple first met in Los Angeles in 2003, after Amanda's marriage to Les Dennis ended.
Despite living together, Amanda has previously admitted they lead 'separate lives'. On Heart Radio, she explained: 'Our lives have been very separate for a long time because we're both very busy. Obviously, we're very happily married, but we do lots of things separately.' To spend more time together, her husband suggested they take up badminton, a game they often play in the summer.
In past interviews, Amanda has also highlighted the importance of a sense of humour and physical attraction. She told OK! Magazine: 'I really fancy Chris. We'll be eating dinner in a restaurant, he'll go to the loo, then I'll look up and catch a glimpse of a man and think he's fit! Then I'll realise, 'Gosh, that's my husband!''
