In a heartbreaking revelation that has stunned fans and colleagues alike, former Sunrise host Samantha Armytage has confirmed the end of her marriage to businessman Richard Lavender after just two years together.
The 47-year-old television personality, who stepped down from her high-profile role on Channel Seven's breakfast show in 2021, released an emotional statement confirming the couple's separation.
A Love Story Cut Short
Armytage and Lavender, 65, tied the knot in a romantic ceremony in the Southern Highlands in February 2021, surrounded by close friends and family. Their relationship had been widely celebrated as a fairytale romance, with the media veteran often speaking glowingly about finding love later in life.
'This is a very sad, difficult, and challenging time,' Armytage confessed in her statement. 'Richard and I have decided to separate with heavy hearts.'
From Sunrise to Personal Sunset
The news comes as a particular blow to those who followed Armytage's journey from television fame to married life. After leaving Sunrise, she had spoken frequently about enjoying a quieter life with Lavender on their country property, often sharing glimpses of their rural existence on social media.
The couple had been living between their Southern Highlands property and Sydney, with Armytage focusing on her podcast 'Something To Talk About' and other media ventures since departing morning television.
Support Floods In
Fellow media personalities and fans have been quick to express their support for both Armytage and Lavender during this difficult period. The separation marks a significant personal setback for the broadcaster, who had often spoken about the joy of finding love after years in the public eye.
While neither party has disclosed specific reasons for the split, sources close to the couple suggest the decision was mutual and made after careful consideration. Both are said to be focusing on maintaining privacy and dignity throughout the separation process.
As Armytage navigates this new chapter in her life, the media industry watches with sympathy, remembering the strong, resilient woman who graced Australian television screens for nearly two decades.
