Life can take you in unexpected directions, and for celebrity makeup artist Gary Cockerill, that’s certainly been the case.
Once famous for painting the faces of glam models like Katie Price and hitting the town for wild nights out, Gary has now turned the page—trading the world of makeup for a hammer and toolbox.
These days, he’s fully immersed in DIY projects, working alongside his longtime partner-turned-husband Phil Turner.
Celebrating Love and Silver Fox Vibes
Back in September, Phil marked two big milestones with a heartfelt Instagram post—Gary’s birthday and their 33rd anniversary together.
He posted a loving tribute, calling Gary his “silver fox” and sharing how deeply he still feels for him: “Love you as much as the day we met.”
Phil also added a playful shout-out from their “fur babies,” along with a mention of their ever-growing list of property projects.
Renovation Goals and Relationship Roots
Phil and Gary are not just life partners—they’re also creative collaborators.
Just last year, they shared a video showcasing the transformation of one of their properties, highlighting their shared passion for home renovation.
But their story stretches back much further.
They entered a civil partnership in 2009, at a time when same-sex marriage wasn’t yet legal.
That day was meant to be all about love—but it nearly took a chaotic turn thanks to a very dramatic guest.
Katie Price’s Infamous Reception Meltdown
Katie Price, who had been close friends with both Gary and Phil, was set to perform Whitney Houston’s “I Have Nothing” for their first dance.
But instead of a touching serenade, things spiraled into a foul-mouthed tirade.
According to reports, Katie lashed out at the crowd, allegedly calling the guests offensive names and mocking her own singing voice.
Although she ended up miming the song—and even repeated it twice—it’s safe to say the moment didn’t go as planned.
A Painful Post-Divorce Appearance
That chaotic reception came not long after Katie’s high-profile split from Peter Andre, and she reportedly used the microphone to vent about him in graphic terms.
Unsurprisingly, when Gary and Phil decided to make their union official with a legal marriage in 2019, Katie was nowhere to be seen.
It seems the couple wanted to avoid a repeat performance.
A Touching Message from Dame Barbara Windsor
One of the most heartwarming moments from their 2019 wedding came from beloved EastEnders icon Dame Barbara Windsor.
Though battling Alzheimer’s at the time, Barbara recorded a sweet congratulatory video for the couple, telling them how thrilled she was to hear they’d gotten married.
Her touching words were especially meaningful since she had been their matron of honour during their 2009 ceremony.
A Friendship That Stood the Test of Time
Phil shared that Barbara and her husband Scott had been part of their lives for over two decades.
He got emotional reminiscing about their memories and the love they still feel for Barbara, who passed away in 2020.
Phil also used the post to encourage support for the Alzheimer’s Society, honoring Barbara and Scott’s tireless advocacy work.
A Decade of Love Made Legal
When same-sex marriage was legalized in the UK in 2013, Gary and Phil didn’t rush into tying the knot again—but in 2019, they made it official.
Their second wedding marked not just a legal shift but a celebration of their enduring love.
Both took to Instagram with heartfelt messages, and Gary’s sweet words summed it up best: “Not a day goes by that I don’t have to pinch myself and be grateful I have this wonderful man in my life.”
Building Homes, Memories, and a Future
These days, the couple keeps busy with property development and enjoying their quieter, more grounded life.
Their love story—complete with glamour, chaos, loyalty, and reinvention—has evolved into something deeper and stronger than ever.
So, What’s Next?
With more DIY adventures on the horizon and a love that continues to grow, Phil and Gary seem to be just getting started on their next chapter.
Whether it’s transforming properties or creating memories, they’ve clearly found their groove.
And we’ll be watching—maybe even taking a few renovation tips while we’re at it.