When Martin Clunes’ first marriage to Lucy Aston ended in 1997, it wasn’t a sudden decision.
In fact, Lucy recently opened up about the harsh comment that led to the dramatic breakdown of their relationship.
She reflected on the pivotal moment that made her realize it was time to walk away.
Cracks in the Foundation
The couple married in 1990, but just three years later, their once happy relationship began to unravel.
Lucy shared that the tensions started mounting when Martin’s acting career skyrocketed, while she stayed grounded, continuing her work in a food shop.
The situation worsened during an argument in a Chinese restaurant that would forever change the course of their marriage.
The Turning Point
The argument erupted when Lucy discovered that Martin had “forgotten” to invite her to a party.
Her frustration boiled over when he dismissed her feelings and reportedly called her “dull and boring” for choosing to spend her time studying to become a crisis counsellor rather than hitting the social scene.
It was the comment during their restaurant argument, however, that hit the hardest.
Martin allegedly told Lucy, “You are an embarrassment.” For her, that was the breaking point.
She recounted standing up, telling him, “Thanks for dinner—this is the end,” and storming out, seething with rage.
A Final Goodbye
Later, Lucy returned to find Martin sitting amidst the remnants of their meal in takeaway cartons.
Without a word, she removed her gold wedding ring, slammed it on the table, and walked out, signaling the end of their marriage.
She had already decided that their relationship was over, especially after learning that Martin had gone to the party without telling her. It was a betrayal she couldn’t ignore.
Life After Divorce
Lucy and Martin’s divorce was finalized in 1997.
Shortly afterward, Martin married Philippa Braithwaite, and the two have remained together ever since.
Despite the fallout from his first marriage, Martin later described his relationship with Lucy as one of friendship, though he once referred to their marriage as “rotten.”
Moving On
In a 2008 interview, Martin reflected on his first marriage and his relationship with Philippa.
He confessed he wasn’t actively searching for love when he met her but said he found it unexpectedly.
He also admitted he was initially hesitant about getting involved again after his “rotten” marriage to Lucy.
Martin and Philippa now share a daughter, Emily, born in 1999. Emily is currently a manager at the Cheddington Equestrian Therapy and Rehabilitation Centre.
As for Martin, he’s keeping busy with his acting career.
His latest role is in the 2025 ITV drama Out There, and he’ll soon appear in a travelogue miniseries, Neil & Martin’s Bon Voyage, alongside his Men Behaving Badly co-star, Neil Morrissey.
What’s next for Martin Clunes? Only time will tell.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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