Home / Arts and Entertainment / Tess Daly & Vernon Kay Split After 23 Years: Empty Nest Triggers Change
Tess Daly & Vernon Kay Split After 23 Years: Empty Nest Triggers Change
10 May
Summary
- Tess Daly and Vernon Kay announced their separation after 23 years of marriage.
- Daly previously spoke of uncertainty about her future with daughters leaving home.
- The couple confirmed their split with messages on social media.
Tess Daly and Vernon Kay, a prominent TV couple, have announced their separation after 23 years together. In messages posted to social media on Friday, May 8, 2026, they confirmed the split, emphasizing mutual understanding and their continued commitment to co-parenting their two daughters. This announcement comes six months after Daly, 57, discussed significant life changes, including her departure from Strictly Come Dancing, which she co-hosted since 2004.
In an October 2025 podcast appearance, Daly shared her feelings about her daughters, aged 17 and 21, preparing to leave the family home. She spoke of empty nest syndrome, anticipating a drastic shift in her daily life and a mix of anxiety and excitement for the future. Daly noted that the last 20 years were defined by her children's needs, and she looked forward to pursuing personal interests she had previously deferred.
Kay, 52, also acknowledged the evolving family dynamic, noting their relationship with their daughters was changing as they encouraged independence. The couple married in 2003, having met in 2001. Their marriage previously weathered a sexting scandal in 2010, when Kay admitted to sending inappropriate messages.
