Tess Daly has received an outpouring of support from her former Strictly Come Dancing co-stars after she and estranged husband Vernon Kay released a joint statement on social media. The pair, who announced their separation earlier this year, reunited with their daughter Phoebe to mark her birthday.
The couple first revealed their split in May 2026 after 22 years of marriage. In their initial statement, they wrote: "After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably. This has not been an easy choice, but it comes from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire for what is best for both of us. We remain great friends and most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents, which will always be our priority." The pair also confirmed that "no other parties" were involved in the decision.
Birthday Celebration at The BoTree
This week, Tess and Vernon reunited alongside their daughter Phoebe and released another joint statement on social media. To celebrate Phoebe's birthday, the family headed to The BoTree in London and shared photos from the party. Both their official accounts posted on Instagram: "The best time celebrating our @phoebekay. With the beautiful backdrop of @the_botree London," accompanied by a pink heart emoji.
In the first of the snaps, Tess and Vernon stood on either side of their daughter with their arms around her. Tess leaned her head in close to Phoebe's while wearing a floral dress, while Vernon slipped a hand into his pocket and grinned at the camera. Tess was seen walking into the party arm-in-arm with Phoebe, as Vernon took to the DJ decks to entertain the guests.
Support from Strictly Stars
Tess's former Strictly co-presenter Claudia Winkleman was among the first to show her support for the post, commenting a row of heart emojis – one white and four red. Ex-It Takes Two host Janette Manrara echoed: "Happy Birthday @phoebekay!", while Strictly pro Vito Coppola added a red heart emoji, writing: "Auguri di buon compleanno [Happy Birthday]." The pair also received support from MasterChef star John Torode, Strictly's La Voix and Michelle Visage.
The party included cocktails with pictures of Phoebe's face on them, and a curated bar menu with drinks like The Phoebe Spritz and Hotter than the Birthday Girl.
