Olympic heptathlon gold medalist Dame Denise Lewis has publicly confirmed her separation from husband Steve Finan O’Connor, two years after privately ending their 17-year marriage. The 53-year-old athlete shared the news via Instagram on Tuesday, accompanied by the song Teardrop by Massive Attack.
In her statement, Lewis wrote: “After much thought, Steve and I decided to separate as a couple in 2023. This choice was made with mutual respect after many meaningful years together. We remain grateful for our shared time and the wonderful family we’ve built.” She emphasized their focus on maintaining a positive co-parenting relationship for their three sons and children from prior relationships.
The pair, who married in 2006 after meeting at the 2000 Brit Awards, had reportedly grown apart in recent years. Insiders revealed Steve relocated from their Buckinghamshire home in late 2023, with the couple unfollowing each other on social media. Lewis, a BBC athletics pundit, and O’Connor—son of late comedian Tom O’Connor—initially reconnected years after their first meeting, which occurred during her previous marriage.
O’Connor, a former music manager turned property developer, previously worked with artists like Neneh Cherry and Liam Payne. The couple’s blended family includes Lewis’ daughter Lauren and O’Connor’s son Joe from earlier relationships.
Lewis concluded her announcement by requesting privacy, stating: “We value the support from loved ones and ask for understanding as we navigate this new chapter.”
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