Billie Piper has broken her silence regarding her controversial ex-husband, Laurence Fox, for the first time. The actor, known for his role in “Lewis,” has faced significant backlash in recent years due to his contentious opinions on race and politics.
Despite sharing two young children with Piper, who rose to fame as a star in “Doctor Who,” she had previously refrained from engaging in her ex-husband’s controversies.
In a candid interview, the actress has openly discussed her perspective on Fox’s public notoriety and the dynamics of co-parenting their sons.
Billie Piper’s Statement About Laurence Fox
Piper, who had previously refrained from discussing their relationship and Fox’s controversies, now acknowledges having insights into dysfunctional relationships. She said:
‘‘Of course I have feelings on that, I’m not dead inside. Look, if people want to try and understand the workings of the guy, they ought to either ask him or his family. Ask [Fox’s brother-in-law, actor and comedian] Richard Ayoade what he thinks, or his wife [Fox’s actor sister] Lydia. They might have a more interesting take.’’
‘‘I try to keep people from telling me stuff but it’s really, really hard. I don’t read it but everyone wants to talk about it. Sometimes I have to say to people:
“Please don’t bring this to me, now or ever,’ she added, before saying the relationship and fallout has ‘made me feel stronger in many ways’, teaching her resilience and that only she can control her reactions.’’
Piper emphasized the significant challenges of co-parenting with Fox, highlighting the “enormous difficulty” it entails. She also stressed the importance of respecting her children’s privacy, expressing that they deserve the opportunity to develop their own identities without being mere extensions of their parents.
Marriage Insights: When Did It Happen?
Laurence and Billie began dating in 2006 after meeting during their work on the stage play, Treats. They tied the knot on December 31, 2007, in West Sussex, commemorating the occasion with matching tattoos.
However, after over eight years of marriage, they divorced in May 2016, citing an irretrievable breakdown.
Although they confirmed no third parties were involved, Laurence described the divorce as “horrendous,” lamenting the financial toll it took. He revealed that it took him around 18 months to two years to recover from the ordeal.
Laurence openly discussed the breakup, even reportedly attributing the relationship’s end to Billie’s mother during a public appearance.
In contrast, Billie has maintained a relatively reserved stance regarding her time with Laurence, opting not to publicly delve into their relationship or the subsequent controversies surrounding him.
The Doctor Who favorite, now 41, confessed to experiencing a “life crisis” in her early 30s. The actress said:
‘‘I think your thirties are a time when you start reflecting on everything you have or haven’t achieved, and where you’re going and what your mental health is like — are you in a circle of repetitive, negative behaviours?
‘‘Your 20s are fun, wild and without consequence. Obviously, there are dark moments in your twenties, but pretty much when you compare them to your thirties, they’re a bloody walk in the park. In your 30s it’s like, “Wow, sh*t is getting real”
Billie was 34 years old when she and Fox divorced. Laurence has been linked to radio presenter Lilah Parsons, Sky Sports presenter Kirsty Gallacher, and model Vogue Williams since then.
Any Kids Together?
The couple shares two children together – Winston James Fox, 11, and Eugene Pip, seven. Billie has since welcomed a third child with her current partner, Johnny Lloyd. Johnny, a singer in the band Tribes, met Billie in a North London bar in 2016.
They celebrated the arrival of their daughter, Tallulah, in January 2019. In contrast, Laurence does not have any other children.
How Did Billie Find Out About Laurence’s Alleged Betrayal?
News of Fox’s alleged infidelity surfaced after Honeysuckle, 44, discussed her interactions with Laurence in an interview. She revealed,
“Laurence asked me out three times. On each occasion, he stood me up. Although the real question is why did I keep agreeing? Mind you, he was still married to Billie at the time.”
Following these remarks from the Foyle’s War actress, a source informed,
“Billie was obviously stunned to read the interview – and discover her husband, with whom she was very much together at the time, was wooing other women. She feels humiliated and betrayed. God knows who else he tried to date when they were together. Safe to say, she is extremely happy she and Laurence aren’t together today.”
Meet Laurence Fox’s Former-Fiancee Arabella Fleetwood Neagle
Laurence commenced a relationship with Arabella Fleetwood Neagle, daughter of multi-millionaire investment manager Paul Neagle, in 2021.
He proposed to her in December of that year while they were on vacation abroad. The actor formally announced their engagement in an advertisement, stating,
“The engagement is announced between Laurence Paul Fox and Arabella May Fleetwood Neagle.” He also shared the news on Twitter, exclaiming, “She said ‘yes’.”
Arabella, 29, accompanied Laurence as he launched his Reclaim Party campaign, indicating a strong bond between them.
However, their relationship took a turn when it was disclosed in June 2023 that Laurence and Arabella had parted ways just weeks before their scheduled wedding.
According to a source, Laurence and Arabella had an immediate connection and enjoyed each other’s company. Arabella demonstrated understanding towards Laurence’s controversial nature and was prepared to embrace the role of a stepmother.
Despite their efforts to maintain privacy, their relationship gradually fizzled out over time.
The insider revealed,
“Laurence says his priority is raising kids and keeping stability and peace within that setting.”
Laurence Fox Sparked Controversy: What Happened?
The broadcaster stirred up controversy by making derogatory comments about female journalist Ava Evans on GB News.
During his appearance on Dan Wootton’s program on the evening of September 27, Laurence made offensive remarks, including asking,
“Who would want to shag that?” in reference to Evans.
Consequently, he has been suspended from GB News, where he hosted his own show, and Ofcom has confirmed receiving multiple complaints regarding his comments.
Laurence has a history of making controversial statements, dating back to his appearance on Question Time in 2020 when he equated being called a “white privileged male” to racism.
Subsequently, he founded his own political party, Reclaim, and has continued to make offensive remarks about the LGBTQ+ community.
The broadcaster has also expressed his preference not to date women under 35 due to their politically correct views, further adding to his reputation for making divisive comments.
