Former England footballer and BBC presenter Jermaine Jenas has separated from his wife, Ellie Penfold, after 16 years together.
Ellie, a model, confirmed the split in a heartfelt statement on her Instagram story, expressing the couple’s decision to part ways while maintaining a co-parenting relationship for their four children.
“I never imagined I would have to share something so personal with the public, but given the situation, I feel it’s necessary,” she wrote.
“After 16 years together and four wonderful children, Jermaine and I have decided to part ways.
“We will remain friends and continue to co-parent.
“We kindly ask that you respect our children’s privacy during this challenging time.”
The couple, who had been married for over 13 years, were known for their strong bond and family life away from the public eye. However, their separation follows a turbulent period for Jenas, 42, who has faced professional and personal setbacks in recent months.
Recent professional struggles
Jenas, a former Tottenham Hotspur and England midfielder, transitioned into television following his retirement from football. He became a well-recognised face on BBC’s Match of the Day and The One Show, where he was being groomed as a potential successor to Gary Lineker.
However, in August, he was dismissed from the BBC following complaints about workplace conduct. His removal from the broadcaster’s presenting lineup came amid reports of “inappropriate messages” he had exchanged, although he maintained that they were “between two consenting adults” and that he had done “nothing illegal.”
Jenas later apologised for his actions but admitted the controversy had taken a toll on his personal and professional life.
Return to broadcasting
Despite the setback, Jenas has recently returned to the media spotlight. Last month, he made his comeback on TalkSport radio, where he reflected on the challenges he had faced over the past year.
Speaking candidly about his experiences, he admitted:
“The last six, seven months have been extremely tough for myself and my family.
“But it’s also been a really good opportunity to take stock, have a good look at why you find yourself in these kinds of situations, and start to have some honest conversations, really.
“With yourself, with other people, people that are close to you, people that have been very supportive during this period of time and just kind of work your way back to a position where I can get back to doing what I love most.”
Jenas’s return to broadcasting suggests he is keen to rebuild his career, but his personal life remains under scrutiny following the announcement of his separation from Penfold.
A private couple in the public eye
Jenas and Penfold had long been considered a private couple, rarely sharing details of their relationship in the media. They first met during Jenas’s playing days and built a life together while he transitioned from football into broadcasting.
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The couple welcomed four children over their 16-year relationship, with Jenas often speaking about the importance of fatherhood. In interviews, he has described Penfold as his “rock,” crediting her with keeping their family together through the demands of his football and television careers.
However, their separation marks a significant personal upheaval for Jenas, coming at a time when he is attempting to restore his public reputation.
Public reaction and support
News of the split has been met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow media personalities. Many have expressed sympathy for both Jenas and Penfold, particularly given their efforts to keep their family life away from the media spotlight.
While Jenas has yet to issue a personal statement regarding the separation, it is clear that he is focusing on moving forward professionally and personally.
As he looks to rebuild his broadcasting career and navigate life post-divorce, both he and Penfold have requested privacy, especially for the sake of their children.
For now, Jenas continues his return to radio and sports punditry, while Penfold remains focused on their family, with both emphasising their commitment to co-parenting despite the split.
