Holly Valance splits from billionaire husband and Reform UK treasurer Nick Candy as pair break silence on break-up
Holly Valance and Nick Candy have separated after 13 years of marriage, ending their relationship during what a family friend described as “a very difficult period for both Nick and Holly”.
The former Neighbours actress, 42, and the billionaire property tycoon, 52, are said to have been living separate lives for a considerable time before their split became public.
Sources close to the couple revealed that extensive business travel had taken its toll on their marriage. “They have been living separate lives for a long time, he’s travelling a lot and it’s been a lonely life for Holly,” an insider told MailOnline.
The Reform UK treasurer’s commitments to businesses in Dubai and London, alongside his political responsibilities, had created an increasingly difficult dynamic in their relationship.
The couple, who share daughters Luka, 11, and Nova, seven, are focusing on their children’s wellbeing during the separation. “The joint parenting of their two amazing daughters remains their top priority,” a family friend told The Sun.
A spokesman for the couple confirmed: “This is a private matter and we will not be making any further comment.”
Sources indicated the pair had struggled to maintain their relationship whilst managing family life, public commitments and demanding careers.
“They’ve had to juggle a demanding lifestyle. Between family, public life, and Nick’s intense work commitments, it’s been a tough balance,” an insider revealed.
The source added: “This is a family matter and they’re doing their best to handle things thoughtfully. Privacy is obviously very important to them both, so they can focus on what’s best for the family.”
The Australian-born star, who found fame playing Felicity Scully in Neighbours before launching a successful pop career with hits including Kiss Kiss, had reportedly felt increasingly isolated whilst her husband travelled extensively for work.
Candy, who built his property empire with brother Christian after starting with a £6,000 loan from their grandmother in 1995, has business interests spanning Dubai and London alongside his role as Reform UK treasurer.
The couple were last photographed together in March, enjoying lunch in London.
They had previously lived in a £175million Hyde Park penthouse before downsizing to a £10million Cotswolds mansion.
Their 2012 Beverly Hills wedding, which cost £3million, was attended by 300 guests including Simon Cowell, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, and their mother Sarah, Duchess of York.
The politically aligned couple have been prominent supporters of Reform UK, with both making significant financial contributions to Nigel Farage’s party.
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Valance donated £50,000 to Reform UK in 2024 under the name Holy Vukadinović, whilst also revealing she had donated around £100,000 to the party.
“I have been whispering in his ear for a long time. He is the face of Reform,” Valance said of Farage, claiming she encouraged him to run for party leader.
The couple’s political connections run deep, having dined with Farage and Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago in 2022.
They were also present when Farage returned as Reform leader last year.
Despite their shared political views, Candy’s extensive responsibilities with Reform UK had reportedly “come between” them, according to sources.