Ashley Banjo split from his wife 18 months ago.
Ashley Banjo has split from his wife
The 34-year-old Diversity star has confirmed he and Francesca Abbott - the mother of his children Rose, three, and Micah, two - went their separate ways in 2021 but have kept the news to themselves while they took the time to process the breakdown of their 16-year relationship.
The former couple said in a joint statement shared to their Instagram accounts: "After much thought and consideration we both feel now is the time to share some personal news.
"Nearly 18 months ago we took the difficult decision to separate. After being together for over 16 years, since we were teenagers, this is not a decision that has been taken lightly.
"It has not been easy and the processing of the situation has not been fast by any means. But we feel that as we approach the new year it is time to share this news with others."
The paid vowed to continue to put their children first and pledged to remain "the best of friends".
They continued: "Our main focus will always be our beautiful children. Every decision that has been made is to make sure we can continue as a loving family and give the very best of ourselves as parents.
"Raising Rose and Micah in a healthy and happy environment is the most important thing to both of us.
"Sometimes after so many years people just move in different directions, but we do so lovingly and we continue to try and be both the best parents possible and the best of friends to each other.
"We have always been private with our personal lives, so we kindly ask that everyone please continue to respect that privacy. We won't be making any further comment on the situation.
"Thank you... Lots of Love Ash and Chess x."
The 'Dancing On Ice' judge got engaged to Francesca in 2014 and they married the following year.
Tagged in Diversity