Declan Donnelly, one-half of the beloved TV duo Ant & Dec, has found enduring happiness in the arms of his wife, Ali Astall.
Their love story is one that evolved from a deep friendship into a lasting romantic connection, capturing the hearts of fans around the world.
The couple’s journey began in 2013 when they officially started dating. However, prior to this, Dec and Ali had been close friends for over a decade.
Their bond was forged through a professional relationship, with Ali serving as Dec’s long-term talent agent. Despite a palpable chemistry between them, both had reservations about pursuing a romantic involvement due to their work ties.
Dec humorously recounted their Valentine’s Day tradition during their single years, saying, “When she was single and I was single, we’d go out for dinner on Valentine’s night together (as friends) because we didn’t have partners.” This ritual continued until 2013, when they decided to take the leap and transition from friends to romantic partners.
After a year and a half of dating, Dec made a romantic gesture that would change their lives forever. In 2014, while working together in Australia where Dec was filming “I’m A Celebrity,” he proposed to Ali. The picturesque setting and the shared adventure of being in Australia added a special touch to the proposal.
The culmination of their love story took place in 2015 when the couple exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony in Dec’s hometown of Newcastle.
Since then, Dec and Ali have continued to capture the public’s imagination with their love and happiness. Ali, as Dec’s life partner, has been a pillar of support in his personal and professional life.