BBC Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay offered a light-hearted warning to a listener who announced the arrival of his newborn daughter during the 'Good News Wednesday' segment of his show.
Reading a message from listener James, Vernon revealed James was on his way to the hospital to pick up his baby girl. In response, Vernon, who has two daughters himself, said: "Welcome to the club, the dad of daughters club."
In a singing voice, he continued: "James is a daddy of a beautiful daughter." The 52-year-old also congratulated James' partner, Ella, adding: "Bravo team."
Warning About Teenage Years
Drawing on his own experience of fatherhood, Vernon offered James some advice. "James, it's the best feeling it really is, however, I will say this, as they get through their teenage years, prepare and practise your very firm hearty handshake," he added.
Vernon shares daughters Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 17, with his wife, Tess Daly, from whom he separated earlier this year.
Separation Announcement
In a joint statement released in May, the pair said their decision had "not been an easy choice", but came "from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire for what is best for both of us". They added that they "remain great friends and most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents, which will always be our priority".
The statement also stressed there were "no other parties involved" and asked for privacy "as we navigate this transition together".
Opening his first radio show since the announcement, Vernon thanked listeners for their support. "I just want to say on behalf of me and Tess, thank you for all your well wishes," he shared. "It has been greatly, greatly appreciated."
Tess and Vernon, who married in 2003, are believed to still be living together at their six-bedroom home in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, and have both continued to wear their wedding rings.
Father's Comments
Following the announcement, Vernon's father, Norman, spoke about the couple's "amicable split". "There is no bad blood between them. They have just gone in different directions, that's all," he told The Daily Mail. "Sometimes these things happen for the better and this is one of those cases."
Shutting down speculation that a third party was involved, he added: "That's absolutely 100% rubbish. He's not interested in finding anyone else at the moment, and there is nobody else involved."
"My advice to him is not to rush into another relationship and he's not doing that because he's got plenty of time," he continued.
