The comedy couple reportedly never fully recovered from his infidelity, and have officially called time on their marriage
Comedy couple Dawn French and Lenny Henry have split after 25 years of marriage.
The pair reportedly called time on their relationship in secret six months ago, but have just released an official announcement.
SEE OUR ROUND-UP OF THE BIGGEST SCANDALS OF 2010
Since splitting in October, Dawn and Lenny have been keeping up the appearance of the happy couple, including 'living together in constant, open and honest discussion,' their publicist said yesterday.
'They fully intend to maintain a close friendship,' for the sake of their 18-year-old adopted daughter, Billie - their publicist added.
But friends close to the couple have revealed that Dawn was never fully able to get over Lenny's 'fling' with a blonde back in 1999. The comedian admitted to spending the night with 26-year-old Merri Cheyne whilst on tour over a decade ago.
Shortly after the story hit the papers, Lenny was also accused of harassing dancers at a strip club in Tenerife.
Dawn French described the incident in her 2008 biography, Dear Fatty, as akin to being 'buffeted by a tornado' and according to friends, now refers to the affair as 'the blip.'
'The fallout has never truly left her,' says biographer Alison Bowyer.
'They are best friends. They tried to get things back on track after the incident - they love each other very much.'
'However, this did have an impact on the marriage,' she continued. 'After being honest with each other, they just decided they want to move on with their lives.'
Dawn and Lenny were married in 1984, after meeting at the Comedy Store Club back in 1981.
