Explore Martin and Shirlie Kemp’s Love Story From TV Romance to Over Three Decades of Marriage
Martin and Shirlie Kemp have celebrated more than 37 years of marriage. They first exchanged vows in 1988, making their love story one for the ages. This journey began in the vibrant culture of the 1980s music scene.
How Martin and Shirlie Met
Martin Kemp rose to fame as a member of the iconic band Spandau Ballet alongside his brother, Gary Kemp. Their hit songs made them one of the top bands in the UK during the 1980s. They won a BRIT Award in 1984 for Technical Excellence.
Meanwhile, Shirlie Holliman gained recognition as a backing singer for Wham! and later became half of the duo Pepsi & Shirlie. Although the couple first met in the mid-80s, they had admired each other from afar for years.
A Fateful Introduction
- Shirlie had a crush on Martin after seeing him in a magazine.
- George Michael, a mutual friend, arranged their meeting.
- Martin shared his number, but Shirlie felt too intimidated to call.
- George eventually made the call for Shirlie, leading to their first conversation.
Their Wedding in St. Lucia
In 1988, Martin and Shirlie wed in an intimate ceremony on a clifftop in St. Lucia. The couple chose a private setting, wanting to escape the chaos of their celebrity lives at the time.
Martin later reflected that the location was not important; love was all that mattered. They wanted to keep the day special and personal, away from the media’s gaze.
Family and Challenges
The couple welcomed two children: daughter Harleymoon in 1989 and son Roman in 1993. Roman is well-known for his hosting role on The One Show.
However, their journey was not without difficulties. In 1995, Martin was diagnosed with two benign brain tumors at the age of 34. He underwent invasive surgery and faced significant health challenges, including dyslexia and memory loss.
Shirlie played a critical role in his recovery, ultimately opting for a less invasive laser treatment for the second tumor. Martin credits her with saving his life.
Secrets to Their Lasting Love
Martin and Shirlie have emphasized the importance of spending time apart. While they dislike the separation, it allows them to appreciate each other more deeply when united.
Over the years, they collaborated on several projects, including a joint album, *In the Swing of It*, which peaked at number 12 on the UK Album Charts. In 2020, they released a memoir titled *Shirlie and Martin Kemp: It’s a Love Story*.
Recent Appearances
In 2023, the couple surprised fans by appearing on *The Masked Singer*, where they performed together as Cat and Mouse. As they approach 40 years of marriage, their love story remains a testament to enduring partnership and shared passion.
