BBC Radio 2 host Vernon Kay provided listeners with an unforgettable moment of live radio gold this week, after suffering a spectacularly awkward mental blank during his mid-morning show.
The 49-year-old presenter, known for his smooth delivery and charismatic style, was left completely flummoxed when he momentarily forgot the name of his wife of nearly 20 years – television personality and Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly.
The Moment of Panic
The cringe-worthy incident occurred as Kay was discussing the upcoming episode of ITV's 'DNA Journey', which features his famous spouse. As he began to speak about the programme, he stumbled dramatically, unable to recall the most important name in his personal life.
"It's my wife... the wife... what is she called?" Kay was heard frantically asking his production team off-mic, his voice tinged with genuine panic. After an agonising pause filled with studio shuffling, the name finally returned to him. "Tess! Tess Daly! Sorry about that!"
Quick Recovery and Audience Reaction
Displaying the professionalism of a seasoned broadcaster, Kay quickly laughed off the bizarre lapse in memory, attributing it to "brain freeze" and the frantic nature of live radio. The charming host took the embarrassing moment in stride, even joking about the incident with his audience afterwards.
Listeners immediately took to social media to share their amusement, with many praising Kay for his relatable and human reaction. The moment has since gone viral, with fans calling it both "hilariously awkward" and "endearingly genuine".
A Marriage Built to Last
Despite the on-air forgetfulness, Vernon and Tess remain one of Britain's most solid celebrity couples. Married since 2003, the pair have two daughters together and are frequently supportive of each other's careers in the public eye.
This isn't the first time Kay has entertained his audience with relatable moments. His popular Radio 2 show has become known for its warm atmosphere and the presenter's ability to connect with listeners through both polished performance and authentic human moments – even when they involve temporarily forgetting your partner's name.
