After 23 years together, TV presenters Tess Daly and Vernon Kay shocked fans with news of their split, citing that they have drifted apart and are at different life stages. The couple released a joint statement on social media announcing their amicable divorce.

A close friend of the couple revealed that there was no major conflict leading to the separation, but rather a realization that their interests and priorities had evolved over time. Tess, aged 57, and Vernon, aged 52, who have a five-year age difference, seem to have grown apart as their individual preferences diverged.

Reported by the Mail, a source shared that Tess and Vernon no longer share many common interests and have “aged differently.” While Vernon enjoys socializing at gigs and American football games, Tess prefers relaxing on girls’ weekends and focusing on herself post her involvement in Strictly Come Dancing.

The insider highlighted that Vernon’s social activities, such as attending the Brit Awards and DJing nights, have often been without Tess by his side. Despite past challenges, including Vernon’s sexting scandal, the couple emphasized in their statement that their split was mutual and no third parties were involved. They expressed their commitment to co-parenting their two daughters, Phoebe and Amber.

Following the announcement, Tess and Vernon toasted to each other’s future and pledged to maintain a friendly relationship, prioritizing their family. Their joint statement emphasized their mutual respect and dedication to their parental roles, seeking privacy during this transition period.

The couple’s friend conveyed that Tess and Vernon acknowledged their differences and agreed to handle the separation with grace, refraining from negative public statements. They affirmed their enduring friendship and commitment to their children.