Tess Daly expressed a desire to be 'selfish' and take a 'grown-up gap year' just one day before her split from Vernon Kay was made public. The former Strictly Come Dancing host, 57, who stepped down from her long-standing role on the BBC programme after prioritizing her career for years, is reportedly 'desperate to explore the world' following 21 years on the show.
Announcement of Separation
Tess announced the heartbreaking decision to separate from Vernon, 51, on Friday after 23 years of marriage, acknowledging that they had agonized over the choice. They emphasized that the split is amicable and that they will continue to be supportive parents to their daughters, Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16.
Desire for Travel
Just a day prior, sources disclosed that Tess hoped to travel 'for a whole year,' but Vernon could only manage a few weeks due to his work commitments. A source told Closer magazine: 'Tess always put Vernon and the girls first, and now she wants to be a bit selfish and make the most of their situation and her newfound freedom.'
The source added: 'She has been working since her teens and never really got to do all the travelling. She feels she's missed out even though she knows how lucky she is. Vernon says they couldn't really do a whole year as he has his Radio 2 show, but he likes the idea of jetting off for weeks at a time, then coming home.'
Official Statement
In a heartfelt statement released on Friday, the couple revealed they had decided to part ways after 'much consideration, and a deep sense of care and respect for one another.' They confirmed the separation was 'amicably' and that 'no other parties' were involved. 'This has not been an easy choice, but it comes from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire of what is best for both of us,' they said. 'We remain great friends and, most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents, which will always be our priority.'
Past Challenges
The couple, who also have a joint deal as food ambassadors for Marks & Spencer, live together in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, and regularly post together on Instagram. Friends expressed shock at the split, with one remarking they 'did not see it coming' and calling it 'very, very sad.'
Their split surprises fans as they were considered one of the strongest marriages in show business, despite Vernon cheating on Tess in 2010 when he was caught 'sexting' Page 3 model Rhian Sugden. Tess, then 57, was devastated but fought to save the relationship and moved on from the incident. Rhian later spoke about the scandal in a Channel 4 documentary, saying: 'He just got away with it. It ruined everything for me.'
Vernon was a regular at Strictly Come Dancing, the show his wife hosted since its launch in 2004, and was spotted at Elstree studios several times during last year's series.
