Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the end of his 18-year-long marriage to his wife, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau. In an Instagram statement on Wednesday, August 2, the 51-year-old expressed that after numerous significant and challenging discussions, they have decided to separate.
Justin further expressed, "We continue to be a tightly-knit family, filled with profound love and admiration for one another, as well as for the foundation we have established and will continue to expand upon." In his final remarks, he appealed, "In order to prioritize the welfare of our children, we kindly request that you honor and protect their privacy as well as ours. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and consideration. Thank you."
Since their marriage in 2005, Justin and Sophie have been blessed with three children: Xavier, aged 15, Ella-Grace, aged 14, and Hadrien, aged 9.
According to CTV News in Canada, the Prime Minister's Office spokesperson, Alison Murphy, has confirmed that the couple has officially signed a legal separation agreement. She emphasized that they have taken all necessary legal and ethical measures in relation to their decision to separate and will continue to do so in the future.
Murphy further highlighted that Justin and Sophie are committed to ensuring a safe, loving, and cooperative environment in which to raise their children. They will maintain a consistent presence in their children's lives.
The couple's separation will not have an impact on future family outings, as Murphy clarified that Canadians can expect to see the family together. Additionally, they have plans to spend time together on vacation, starting next week.
The news of their separation comes approximately two months after Sophie expressed her affectionate Father's Day message to her estranged husband on Instagram. Alongside an adorable picture of Justin carrying Hadrien on his back, she captioned, "Piggyback anyone? This man's love for his kids knows no boundaries."
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Sophie Gregoire Trudeau. Andy Rain/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock
In her caption, she emphasized the importance of fathers as mentors for their sons and daughters, urging them to prioritize their mental well-being and practice self-care. She also encouraged them to fully embrace love. Happy Father's Day!
Justin also took to Instagram on Mother's Day to express his admiration for Sophie and his mother, Margaret Trudeau. He described them as incredibly strong and brave individuals, and expressed the love that he and his children have for them. Happy Mother's Day!
Earlier this year, both Sophie and Justin were present at King Charles III's coronation in London, along with other celebrities and political figureheads. Sophie looked elegant in a blush pink hat and dress, while Justin maintained a classy appearance in a navy suit and patterned tie.
A month earlier, Justin celebrated his estranged wife's 48th birthday by posting a couple of selfies on Instagram. Alongside the heartfelt photos, he wrote, "From our past to present, and everything in between, there's no one I would rather have as my companion... I love you, mon amour."