Inside Tess Daly and Vernon Kay’s marriage and Page 3 model ‘sexting’ scandal
Showbiz sweethearts Tess Daly and Vernon Kay have announced they are parting ways after 23 years of marriage and the pair haven’t exactly had the smoothest journey
Vernon became involved in a “sexting scandal” part way through their relationship(Image: Getty Images for the NTA’s)
Tess Daly and Vernon Kay are breaking up after 23 years as husband and wife, and the couple have had their fair share of ups and downs to say the least.
Daly and Kay said “I do” in September 2003 at a ceremony in Vernon’s hometown, which reportedly left the TV star “over the moon”. Tess once branded their relationship as “explosive” and that she “couldn’t imagine having more fun with anyone else,” but their fairytale romance came to a grinding halt once his sexting scandal came to light.
Back in 2010 it was revealed that Vernon had been “sexting” Page 3 model Rhian Sugden for a few months. After the news broke, Vernon publicly apologised to Tess while hosting his radio show and told listeners: “I’ve let down my wife, Tess. I’m an idiot. I’ve been stupid and daft, but I’m not a sex pest. In some ways, I’m glad this story has come out. It feels like a weight has been lifted from my shoulders.”
Tess is best known for presenting Strictly Come Dancing(Image: Getty Images)
Tess Daly posted family photo online day before surprise split from Vernon Kay
Nadia Sawalha ‘dropped’ from Loose Women over ‘unhinged’ conspiracy theories
“I knew it was getting silly. I’m never going to do it again, and hopefully I can clear the slate clean and start again. I’m so sorry. I’ve been an idiot and I’ve let my family down.”
Things died down and the couple got on with their lives as they raised their two children together. However, six years later the issue resurfaced as Vernon faced allegations that he had been back in contact with Rhian.
To set the record straight, Vernon took to Facebook to write a statement. He said: “I was contacted by Rhian out of the blue back in December regarding the story in 2010, claiming she had information she wanted to pass on.”
Vernon was texting model Rhian Sugden throughout his marriage(Image: @rhiansuggers/Instagram)
“I recognise how it may look when messages are pulled out of context, but there was never any inappropriate intent in our communication. I was merely trying to find answers to questions that I’ve had since 2010. Tess is aware of everything that has been discussed with Rhian.”
After 23 years of marriage, Vernon and Tess have now decided to go their separate ways. They broke the news with a message to their fans on Instagram on 8 May as they asked for privacy.
In a joint statement, Tess and Vernon said: “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. There are no other parties involved in this decision.”
“We kindly ask for privacy during this time as we navigate this transition together. We will not be making any further public comments.”
