Martin Kemp, the iconic Spandau Ballet star, recently shared candid reflections about his marriage to Shirlie, revealing that he harbors doubts about whether the couple are legally married, even after exchanging vows over 35 years ago.
Their love story began in 1982 when Martin noticed Shirlie performing with Wham! on Top of the Pops. Captivated, he found himself completely absorbed, unable to focus until they finally met weeks later. Shirlie, too, had a crush on Martin after seeing him in a magazine. The connection was sparked by their mutual friend, George Michael, who ingeniously arranged their first meeting.
Although nervous, Shirlie initially hesitated to call Martin. It was George Michael who took the initiative, dialing Martin’s number before passing the phone to Shirlie. The couple hit it off instantly and eventually married in 1988.
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Now both 63, Martin recently recounted their wedding day during a chat on BBC Radio 2’s ‘Tracks Of My Years’ with Vernon Kay. Describing their ceremony on a beautiful Caribbean clifftop overlooking the sparkling sea, Martin recalled the informality of the proceedings. “There was only me and the lady who was going to marry us,” he said. After brief vows, the official simply declared them married. Yet, Martin admitted, “To this day, Vernon, I doubt very much if we are married.” He suspects they never received an official wedding certificate but concluded with a lighthearted note: “I think we’re married, so it’s all good.”
Their marriage has endured for 37 years, blessed with two children, Roman and Harley Moon. However, their journey wasn’t without hardship. In 1995, Martin was diagnosed with two brain tumors, sidelining him from work for three years. The couple faced financial strain and an emotional rollercoaster as Martin underwent invasive surgery to remove the larger tumor, which left him with lasting effects including dyslexia, memory loss, and epilepsy.
Shirlie courageously intervened when a second, riskier surgery was proposed. Fearing for Martin’s life, she persuaded the doctors to reconsider and explored alternative treatments. Ultimately, they opted for a laser-based procedure that successfully blasted the tumors without surgery. Martin credits Shirlie’s determination and care with saving his life, stating he has “no doubt” she was his lifesaver.
Through the trials and triumphs, Martin and Shirlie have stood steadfast together, their bond as strong as ever — whether or not a certificate officially confirms it.