Britain's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden has candidly shared what she describes as the "very controversial" secret to maintaining her long-term marriage to husband Chris Hughes. The couple, who first met in Los Angeles in 2003, recently celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary, having tied the knot in Somerset back in 2008.
The 'Controversial' Formula for Marital Longevity
Speaking to Closer Magazine, the 54-year-old television and radio presenter explained her core philosophy. "Everyone gets wrapped up with their children and their schedules and all the drama around your children when they're growing up," she said. "But you have to remember that you and your husband were together first."
Amanda emphasised that actively investing in the romantic relationship is crucial, not just for the couple's own sake, but for their family unit. She stated this approach is supported by research, even if some might find it a contentious viewpoint amidst the demands of parenting.
Leading 'Separate Lives' Within a Happy Marriage
Despite her advice to prioritise the partnership, Holden has been refreshingly honest about the structure of their daily lives. She previously admitted on her Heart Radio show that she and Chris, who share two daughters—19-year-old Lexi and 13-year-old Hollie—lead "separate lives" due to their busy careers and individual interests.
"Our lives have been very separate for a long time because we're both very busy," she revealed. "Obviously, we're very happily married, but we do lots of things separately." She detailed how she enjoys her Peloton and running, while Chris goes to play squash.
Finding Time to Connect
In a bid to carve out more shared time, the couple have turned to a new joint activity. Earlier this year, Amanda told her radio listeners that her husband suggested they take up badminton together. "We are going to be playing our first ever Badminton match tomorrow," she shared in February, expressing her enthusiasm for the game they sometimes play in their garden with the children.
Beyond shared hobbies, Holden has previously credited a brilliant sense of humour and lasting physical attraction as pillars of their lasting partnership. She once gushed to OK! Magazine about still fancying her husband, often doing a double-take when she sees him in public.
The presenter, who appears on Ant and Dec's Limitless Win Christmas Special, continues to balance a high-profile career with a marriage that, by her own admission, thrives on a blend of togetherness and independence.
