Even after splitting in 2016, Norman Cook (Fatboy Slim) and Zoe Ball have remained remarkably close, co-parenting their children Woody, 25, and Nelly, 16, and keeping their friendship strong. Speaking on Davina McCall’s Begin Again podcast, Norman reflected on their journey:
“Our triumph is to remain really good friends and parents, even though we’re not a couple anymore… It was a bit awkward at first, but then we got into a rhythm where we’re probably actually better than we were when we were a couple.”
The duo, who married in 1999 and weathered public scandals, continue to put family first. Zoe recently shared that their daughter Nelly has moved in with Norman, making her home life quieter and more settled. Despite her own romances — including dating BAFTA-winning production designer Mathieu Weekes — Zoe emphasizes protecting her kids from the turbulence of adult relationships:
“Introducing new partners is tricky… the right person will respect your relationship with your kids, will respect the relationship you have with your ex.”
From past heartbreaks to modern blended family dynamics, Norman and Zoe’s story highlights how respect, communication, and shared parenting can turn a difficult split into a lasting friendship — a masterclass in co-parenting with grace.
