Music legend Rod Stewart and his wife Penny Lancaster presented a picture of marital bliss as they graced the red carpet for the premiere of Finding Harmony: A King's Vision at Windsor Castle on Wednesday evening. The iconic rocker, aged 81, and the former model, 54, were among the notable figures who turned out for the special screening, held within the historic royal residence.
A Stylish Arrival on the Red Carpet
Sir Rod Stewart made a distinctive sartorial statement for the occasion, opting for a unique take on formal wear. He sported a white lace shirt beneath a tailcoat blazer, paired with classic pinstripe trousers. The ensemble was accessorised with a religious cross necklace and polished patent leather shoes, completing his eclectic look. Demonstrating their close bond, the Maggie May singer wrapped a protective arm around his wife as they posed for photographers.
Penny Lancaster captivated onlookers in an elegant pink and brown floral chiffon gown, featuring delicate tiered ruffles that added movement and grace to her appearance. She complemented the dress with a sophisticated black velvet fringed shawl and striking red patent stilettos, carrying a miniature black leather handbag. Together, the couple radiated affection and style, drawing admiration from fellow attendees and fans alike.
Reflecting on a Decades-Long Love Story
The public display of unity comes shortly after Penny Lancaster became visibly emotional while recounting the couple's romantic journey in a recent BBC festive special. In the first episode of series two of Anita Rani's My Life At Christmas, Penny repeatedly broke down in tears during the interview, with Rod himself shedding a tear as they revisited their beginnings.
An Unconventional Start to Romance
The pair first crossed paths in 1999 when Penny was a student at Barking College and Rod was performing. However, their connection faced an unexpected delay. After exchanging contact details, Rod did not reach out to Penny for nine months. This pause was orchestrated by his band leader and close friend, Carmine Appice, who deliberately withheld Penny's telephone number.
Carmine believed that Rod, who had recently divorced his second wife Rachel Hunter after a marriage lasting from 1990 to 2006, was not yet emotionally prepared for a new serious relationship. "He didn't think I was in the right position because I had just got a divorce and didn't know if I was coming or going," Rod explained during the interview. "He said I will give it to you when I think you are ready." Rod later joked, "I should have fired him but I couldn't!"
Recalling this period, Penny revealed that she had assumed she would never hear from the rock star again. "I really thought that was the last I would see of Rod," she admitted. "I remember processing those photos I took of Rod [at his concert] and thinking, what a lovely memory and that was that."
Building a Life and Family Together
Once Rod felt ready to pursue a new chapter, he finally contacted Penny, and their relationship blossomed. The couple welcomed their first son, Alistair, now 20, in 2005, before marrying in 2007. Their second son, Aiden, now 14, arrived in 2011. Penny was warmly welcomed into Rod's extensive blended family, which includes children from his previous relationships.
Prior to starting a family with Penny, Rod was already a father to six children. His eldest, Sarah, 62, was placed for adoption when he was just 17, but they later reconnected. With his first wife, Alana Stewart, he shares daughter Kimberly, 46, and son Sean, 45. He had daughter Ruby, 38, with former girlfriend Kelly Emberg, and with ex-wife Rachel Hunter, he is father to Renee, 33, and Liam, 31.
The couple's appearance at Windsor Castle not only highlighted their continued red carpet glamour but also served as a testament to their resilient and deeply emotional partnership, which has endured for over two decades amidst the complexities of fame and family life.
