Once a regular fixture on the London party scene with glamour model Katie Price, celebrity makeup artist Gary Cockerill has since taken a sharp turn away from the spotlight.
These days, he’s far more interested in drills than red carpet drama, having reinvented himself as a passionate DIY renovator alongside his husband, Phil Turner.
Celebrating a Love That’s Lasted Over Three Decades
Last September marked not only Gary’s birthday but a huge milestone: 33 years of love with Phil.
The heartfelt tribute from Phil to his “silver fox” husband was brimming with love and nostalgia.
“Happy Birthday & Happy 33 years Anniversary of being together to my silver fox husband @garycockerill,” Phil wrote, promising more adventures and “another property to develop” together—plus birthday cuddles from their beloved pets.
Once Wild with Katie Price, Now Grounded with Phil
Gary’s previous social life was nothing short of headline-worthy.
He and Katie Price were often seen out together, enjoying glitzy nights and wild antics.
Phil even met Katie when she was just 17 during a photoshoot and remained close with her for years.
But one infamous moment still lingers: their 2009 civil partnership celebration.
The Infamous Wedding Reception That Katie Almost Ruined
Katie was supposed to serenade the couple during their first dance with Whitney Houston’s “I Have Nothing.”
But what unfolded became legendary for all the wrong reasons.
According to reports, she refused to sing live, launched into a foul-mouthed rant about the guests, and mimed the song—not once, but three times.
Fresh off her split from Peter Andre, she allegedly used the mic to insult him as well.
Unsurprisingly, she wasn’t present when Phil and Gary officially married in 2019—a decision likely made to avoid a repeat of the 2009 chaos.
A Touching Message from a Dear Friend, Dame Barbara Windsor
What did make their wedding truly special was a surprise video message from none other than Dame Barbara Windsor.
The beloved actress had been the matron of honour at their civil partnership and remained a cherished friend.
In her heartfelt video, recorded during her battle with Alzheimer’s, Barbara said, “Gary, Phil! I’ve been told that you’ve got married.
Oh, that’s wonderful, congratulations to you both.”
Phil shared the clip with an emotional caption, reflecting on their two decades of friendship.
“Barbara has been in our lives for the past 20 odd years and means as much to us now as she always has,” he wrote.
“Dementia affects so many lives in different ways.
Please support the Alzheimer’s Society if you can.”
From Civil Partnership to Marriage: A Legal and Emotional Milestone
After being civil partners since 2009, the couple finally tied the knot legally in 2019—six years after gay marriage was made legal in the UK.
It was a full-circle moment for Gary and Phil, who celebrated their bond in heartfelt Instagram posts.
Gary shared a photo of Phil with the caption, “My Gorgeous Hubby.
Aren’t I the lucky one?” He added, “Not a day goes by that I don’t have to pinch myself and be grateful that I have this wonderful man in my life.”
New Chapter, Same Love Story
Though he may no longer be glamming up the stars, Gary Cockerill has clearly found joy in his new chapter.
Whether he’s holding a paintbrush or hammering floorboards beside his husband, one thing hasn’t changed—his love story with Phil continues to be the foundation of his life.