Strictly’s First-Ever Winner Natasha Kaplinsky Reportedly Splits From Husband Justin Bower — But The Private Family Life Behind Their Long Marriage Tells A More Personal Story

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Comprehensive Deep-Dive: Former Strictly Winner and Newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky Announces Separation From Husband After 20 Years

Broadcasting veteran and the inaugural Strictly Come Dancing champion Natasha Kaplinsky has announced that she is separating from her husband, Justin Bower, after two decades of marriage.
Justin Bower and Natasha Kaplinsky attending a pre-show drinks reception.
Justin Bower and Natasha Kaplinsky have ended their marriageCredit: Getty
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Natasha and her husband had been married for 20 years

1. The Announcement and Joint Statement

The prominent news anchor and her husband confirmed the major life change through a carefully coordinated statement released to the media.
Breakfast : 2003
The star won Strictly in 2004 with Brendan ColeCredit: BBC Press Handout
Breakfast : 2003
Natasha was known for hosting BBC Breakfast – seen here with the late Dermot Murnaghan
  • Ending a Two-Decade Marriage: Kaplinsky, 54, and investment professional Bower tied the knot in August 2005 following a whirlwind romance after meeting around the time of her historic Strictly victory.
  • Focusing on Family: The joint statement released by the couple read: “We can confirm that we have made the joint decision to end our marriage and our focus now is on our children.”
  • Privately Navigating the Transition: Insiders close to the television presenter noted that the split has been deeply difficult, with friends emphasizing that the former BBC and Sky News anchor is devastated by the end of her 20-year marriage while striving to maintain privacy for their family.

2. A Look Back at Their Shared Life and Careers

  • Founding Strictly History: Kaplinsky remains an iconic figure in British television history, having won the very first series of Strictly Come Dancing back in 2004 alongside professional partner Brendan Cole.
  • A Quiet Family Life: Over the years, the couple largely stepped away from intense tabloid spotlight to raise their two children, residing primarily in a countryside home in East Sussex while balancing demanding media and financial careers.