Vernon Kay was still wearing his wedding ring as he travelled to Wembley to watch Bolton Wanderers storm to a thrilling 4-1 victory in the League One play-off final on Sunday, even after splitting from wife Tess Daly earlier this month. The pair, who share two daughters, Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16, are reportedly navigating what has been dubbed the ‘friendliest divorce in showbiz history’ after 22 years of marriage.
The Radio 2 presenter, 52, showcased his wedding band while speaking to Sky Sports News ahead of the match, signalling a continued mutual respect between the former couple. The amicable exes were recently spotted together at Pub In The Park, taking selfies with fans and spending time with friends in an unusually harmonious display for showbiz.
Sources suggest that Vernon and Tess, both highly-paid BBC presenters, are unlikely to dispute their estimated £6 million fortune, properties, or business ventures. Vernon reportedly earns around £395,000 from his Radio 2 mid-morning slot, taking over from Ken Bruce in 2023, while Tess earned about £400,000 annually as co-host of Strictly Come Dancing until stepping down last December. She also supplements her income with beauty endorsements and her own swimwear brand, NAIA Beach. 
Central to their joint wealth is a five-bedroom Buckinghamshire home, bought 22 years ago for £1.18 million and now valued around £3 million. Despite their separation, the couple are said to be living in the property together temporarily, maintaining a cordial and supportive environment for their daughters.
A source close to the family explained: “After they released their statement on Instagram, Vernon and Tess took a moment to toast each other and their futures. They only want the best for each other and their family. There has been no big fallout — more a gradual growing apart and wanting different things. They have vowed to stay friends and keep things classy in any interviews.”
Vernon and Tess first met in 2001, with Vernon proposing the following Christmas. Bolton’s victory over Stockport County was marked by goals from Ruben Rodrigues (third minute and a stoppage-time penalty), S. Dalby (81st minute), and an own goal from Stockport’s K. Wootton (64th minute), securing the team’s promotion back into the Championship.
Even in the midst of personal change, Vernon’s support for his beloved team remained unwavering, showing that mutual respect and friendship can endure beyond marriage.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/
