Strictly Come Dancing’s Alex Kingston Speaks Out Following Heartbreaking Split with Ralph Fiennes
Alex Kingston, a celebrated actress known for her iconic role in Doctor Who, has navigated a tumultuous romantic history before finding stable happiness. The 62-year-old star is currently participating in the latest series of Strictly Come Dancing, showcasing her enthusiasm for dance.
Professional Career and Achievements
Kingston gained wide recognition for her role as River Song in Doctor Who, appearing alongside actors David Tennant, Matt Smith, and Peter Capaldi. Her impressive television credits also include appearances in major series such as:
- ER
- The Fortunes and Misfortunes of Moll Flanders
- Arrow
- A Discovery of Witches
In 2019, she expressed her desire to join Strictly Come Dancing, reminiscing about her conversations regarding the show with fellow actress Sarah Hadland.
Heartbreak and Relationships
Kingston’s personal life has been marked by significant heartbreak. She first met Ralph Fiennes, the acclaimed Oscar-nominated actor, in 1983 at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. The couple married a decade later, but their relationship faced turmoil when Fiennes became involved with Francesca Annis, a woman 18 years his senior.
Marriage and Aftermath
The couple believed that marriage would help heal their struggles, especially during difficult times, such as the illness of Fiennes’ mother. However, Kingston later reflected on their relationship as feeling “very fragile.”
In 1995, Fiennes and Annis began a real-life affair during Fiennes’ role as Hamlet, which ultimately ended his marriage with Kingston. Following their split, Kingston shared her emotional turmoil, stating that feelings of worthlessness overshadowed her self-esteem. She remarked that, despite the pain, she doesn’t regret the divorce as it significantly shaped her character.
Subsequent Relationships
Fiennes’ relationship with Annis lasted from 1997 until 2006 but was marred by allegations of infidelity, affecting both Kingston and Annis deeply. Feeling devastated, Kingston contemplated suicide but later found love with German author Florian Haertel. They welcomed a daughter, Salome, in 2001 but separated in 2009, finalizing their divorce four years later.
Fortunately, Kingston has since found happiness again. She married TV presenter Jonathan Stamp in 2015 in a ceremony held in Italy.
Through trials and tribulations, Alex Kingston’s journey underscores resilience and the potential for renewal, both professionally and personally.
