TV icons Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty stunned the UK with news of their separation after more than a decade of marriage. The announcement, made jointly on 29 July 2025, arrived as both presenters remain at the forefront of British broadcasting. Their decision places the couple at the centre of trending headlines, with the news dominating Google searches and stirring widespread discussion across the UK’s media landscape.
The Official Statement and What It Means
Deeley, 48, beloved for hosting ITV’s “This Morning,” and Kielty, 54, the face of BBC Radio 5 Live and RTÉ’s “The Late Late Show,” addressed the public with clarity and grace. In their statement, they said, “We have made the choice to end our marriage and are now living separately. There is no third party involved”. They were quick to stress their commitment to co-parenting, explaining, “We will remain united as devoted parents to our children and kindly request that our family’s privacy be honoured. There will be no further statements”. This directness reflects their wish to handle the matter privately, putting their two sons, Milo and James, at the centre of their concern.
A Love Story Spanning Continents
The couple’s journey began in 2002, co-hosting BBC’s “Fame Academy.” Yet, it wasn’t until 2012 that their friendship evolved into romance. That same year, they married in a ceremony in Rome, beginning a partnership admired by many across the country. Shortly after heading to Los Angeles for Deeley’s career as host of the US hit “So You Think You Can Dance,” their move to the United States underscored their strong bond. However, by 2020 they relocated back to London, choosing to immerse their sons in family life closer to their British roots.
Cat has repeatedly highlighted her familial priorities, once saying their sons’ close connection with grandparents, aunts, and cousins played a large part in their decision to return to the UK. She emphasised the fleeting nature of these precious early years, sharing how her boys have made her view life in a new, vibrant way.
Careers in the Spotlight
Both Deeley and Kielty are no strangers to demanding roles and public scrutiny. After Holly Willoughby’s departure, Deeley became the permanent co-host of “This Morning” alongside Ben Shephard in early 2024–a move that revitalised the flagship ITV daytime show and brought with it early starts and a front-facing role in British entertainment.
Meanwhile, Kielty has seen a resurgence in his own career. Since 2023, he has hosted “The Late Late Show” for RTÉ, Ireland’s premier talk show, demanding frequent travel between London and Dublin for live broadcasts. He also continues to be known for his documentaries on Northern Irish history and his acclaimed radio work.
Why Did the Marriage End?
While the official statement did not cite a specific reason for the split, some observers point to the realities of increasingly diverging schedules and high-profile commitments for both presenters. Media speculation suggests that the couple’s geographic divide and professional pressures may have stretched their relationship, a theory supported by recent career changes that have placed both in separate cities and different broadcasting spheres. Yet, the couple remain steadfast in keeping the details private, steering the conversation back to the well-being of their family.
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
Reaction to the announcement has been swift, with the couple receiving an outpouring of support from colleagues, fans, and peers within the media community. Many social media users have expressed surprise but noted how busy schedules and public attention can impact even the strongest relationships. Others have praised their dignified approach, focusing on unity for their children and asking for privacy, which sets a measured precedent for handling personal developments in the public eye.
The UK press, including BBC News, The Guardian, and The Independent, have covered the story extensively, while forums and lifestyle sections continue to examine the couple’s timeline, parenting approach, and the challenges faced by high-profile marriages.
A Legacy of British Television
Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty’s pairing became emblematic of British television’s appeal during the early 2000s, as they charmed audiences on major shows and built significant individual legacies. Their rise came at a time when the UK’s entertainment industry was expanding its global reach, and both have maintained careers spanning continents.
Despite their separation, Deeley and Kielty provide a candid example of how high-profile couples can manage personal changes with dignity and openness — a message that resonates strongly with the UK public and media alike.
