The former television power couple are reportedly seeking a straightforward legal separation while apparently continuing to live together and prioritise their daughters following the end of their 22-year marriage.
Tess Daly is reportedly exploring a low-cost, amicable, “quickie” divorce from Vernon Kay after the couple’s surprise separation brought an end to one of British television’s longest-lasting celebrity marriages.
The presenter, 57, and Vernon, 52, announced in May they had decided to separate after 22 years of marriage and now, according to The Daily Mirror, the pair are considering using online legal services in an effort to keep proceedings straightforward and avoid a costly court battle.
Tess and Vernon have two daughters, Phoebe and Amber, and are understood to have remained living together in their Buckinghamshire family home while discussing future arrangements.
The Mirror stated representatives for the former couple have been approached for comment.
A source told The Mirror: “Tess doesn’t want to spend thousands on solicitors for a divorce. A friend suggested they look at getting a quickie divorce online.
“They don’t see there’s anything to fight over and know they’ll agree on everything fairly.”
The insider added: “They’re still living under the same roof and have effectively re-coupled as friends. They won’t be fighting over assets and will always stay close.”
Tess and Vernon confirmed their separation in a joint statement shared online last month.
They 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 of 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.”
The announcement marked the end of one of television’s most enduring relationships.
Tess has been synonymous with BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing since taking over as co-host in 2004, becoming one of the programme’s most recognisable faces alongside Claudia Winkleman.
The ballroom competition remains one of the BBC’s highest-rated entertainment shows and continues to dominate weekend viewing.
Meanwhile, Vernon remains a familiar figure to television and radio audiences through programmes including All Star Family Fortunes, Splash! and his presenting work on BBC Radio 2.
In recent years he has also attracted renewed attention following his appearance on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2020, where he finished third.
According to a friend quoted following the separation announcement, the decision had been discussed privately for some time.
The pal added: “They have had many conversations about this and tears were shed.
“It wasn’t a sudden decision but it’s something they have been quietly navigating together for some time. It was very natural in a way, it’s just one of those things.
“Vernon is a real social butterfly, he loves going to parties with Phoebe and hanging out with her doing things, while Tess is a bit more of a homebody.”
The friend added: “They’re still such good friends.”
Tess and Vernon married in September 2003 after two years together and have frequently spoken publicly about the importance of family life while balancing demanding television careers.
Reports have said their primary focus remains Phoebe and Amber as they continue to navigate the next stage of their relationship.
Tess Daly and Vernon Kay ‘eyeing quickie divorce’ after shock split
