Former EastEnders star Tamzin Outhwaite has bravely spoken out about the painful realities of co-parenting following her divorce from actor Tom Ellis. The couple, who split in 2014 after nine years of marriage, share two daughters together.
The Emotional Toll of Separation
In a candid interview, Outhwaite admitted that navigating life as a separated parent hasn't been easy. "There are moments that are incredibly painful," she revealed. "When your children are with the other parent, you're left with this emptiness that's hard to describe."
Putting the Children First
Despite the challenges, the 53-year-old actress emphasized that she and Ellis have always prioritized their daughters' wellbeing. "We made a conscious decision early on to keep things amicable for the kids," Outhwaite explained. "They didn't ask for any of this, so it's our job to make it as smooth as possible."
Life After EastEnders
Since leaving the iconic BBC soap where she played Melanie Owen, Outhwaite has focused on theatre work and television appearances while balancing her parenting responsibilities. She credits her career with helping her through difficult times, stating: "Work has been my salvation in many ways - it gives me purpose when I'm not with my girls."
Advice for Other Separated Parents
The actress offered words of wisdom for others in similar situations:
- Communication with your ex is key, even when it's difficult
- Create consistent routines between both households
- Allow yourself to grieve the relationship while moving forward
- Remember that children are resilient with the right support
Outhwaite's honesty about the realities of post-divorce parenting has resonated with many fans, sparking conversations about the emotional aspects of modern family dynamics.
