It was a love story that captured Britain’s attention, but now Les Dennis has shared a candid, bittersweet reflection on his marriage to Amanda Holden — admitting there were early signs the relationship might not last.
The former Family Fortunes host married the Britain’s Got Talent judge in 1995, when Amanda was just 23 and Les 40. Looking back, Les recalls a telling moment that foreshadowed their future:
“One day in 1995, a plumber came to fix our washing machine. Amanda ran down excited about placing a bet on Grand National Day. I handed over the money, and the plumber looked at us and said, ‘Kids, eh?’… I should have known,” Les revealed on Sherrie Hewson’s podcast. 😳
The couple eventually separated in 2002, two years after Amanda admitted to an affair with actor Neil Morrissey, whom she met while working on the BBC show Happy Birthday Shakespeare. Despite the heartbreak, Les reflects fondly on their years together:
“We were together 10 years — seven married — and it was what it was. It was a long time, and we had many happy memories.” ❤️
Today, Les, 72, is happily married to his third wife, Claire, with whom he has two children, while Amanda, 55, married Chris Hughes in 2008 and shares two daughters with him.
Amanda has also reflected on her mistakes candidly, admitting to The Daily Mail:
“I brought it on myself. Nothing will ever be as bad again. It was a very dark time… I could hardly breathe.”
From the early sparks to public heartbreak and reflection, their story is a reminder that love, mistakes, and growth are all part of life in the spotlight. And even after splits and regrets, both Les and Amanda have moved forward — embracing new chapters, families, and happiness.
