Comedian and actor Sacha Baron Cohen has shared a glowing public tribute to his ex-wife, actress Isla Fisher, to mark her milestone 50th birthday. The heartfelt message, posted on social media, described Fisher as "the funniest, most joyful person, a brilliant talent, and a fantastic mum."
A Public Celebration Despite Divorce
The Borat star, 54, accompanied his warm words with a sweet photograph of Fisher wearing a bold orange cap while relaxing at a beachside café. This public display of affection comes despite the couple's divorce being finalised in June 2023, following their mutual announcement of separation at the end of the previous year.
The former couple were married for 14 years and share three children: daughters Olive, 18, and Elula, 15, along with son Montgomery, 10. Baron Cohen's birthday message explicitly wished his ex-wife well for her next decade, stating: "May the next decade be even better."
Divergent Paths Post-Separation
While Baron Cohen has publicly celebrated his ex-wife's birthday, their approaches to single life have reportedly differed significantly since their separation. Only three months after their divorce was completed, reports emerged that the comedian had moved on with 27-year-old model Hannah Palmer.
Then in November, Baron Cohen was photographed with social media personality Kelsey Calemine, who is 28 years his junior. These public appearances contrast with Fisher's more private approach to her post-divorce life.
Isla Fisher's Personal Journey
In a recent interview with NewBeauty magazine, Fisher opened up about the emotional challenges she has faced since the separation. "It has been a really challenging time," she revealed. "I definitely feel like there's something about the divorce club that anyone in it understands in a way other people don't. It's a different grief."
However, the actress has also embraced the opportunities that have come with her changed circumstances. She explained: "I feel like creating a new identity after your divorce is so fun, though. You get to reflect on your values and goals, explore new interests, focus on what you want and rebuild your sense of self."
Rediscovering Passions and Relationships
Fisher described enjoying the "headspace and time to focus on myself" that has come with her new chapter. She elaborated on reconnecting with childhood passions that "fell by the wayside when you were raising a family" and strengthening supportive friendships.
"All the relationships that you have in your life that were not necessarily the forefront of the way that you spend your time, because you're married," Fisher noted. "Those relationships that are so supportive and brilliant and often really, really old get to retake centre stage. I think that's a really exciting thing."
Looking Forward with Grace
The actress emphasised the positive aspects of her post-divorce journey, stating: "There are lots of positives that have come about from all this - like self-exploration and just trying to be kind to myself. I can just give myself grace whenever I like. That's all I'm trying to do."
Regarding future relationships, Fisher has been clear about her current priorities. Speaking to The Sunday Times last year, she admitted: "That's not on my to-do list. I'm not ready to think about any of that." She referenced her own parents' separation when she was nine years old, noting that their peaceful arrangement is what she now strives for in her own co-parenting relationship with Baron Cohen.
The public birthday tribute from Baron Cohen suggests that, despite their divorce, the former couple maintain mutual respect and affection as they navigate their separate paths while continuing to co-parent their three children.
