Louise Storey, formerly known as Louise Anstead, is best recognized as the first wife of British television personality and car builder Ant Anstead. Unlike Ant's subsequent high-profile marriages in the entertainment spotlight, Louise spent the majority of their long relationship away from the cameras. Their history spans over two decades, beginning long before Ant became a household name on shows like Wheeler Dealers.
Understanding who Louise Storey is requires looking past the brief tabloid headlines. Their relationship evolved from teenage years into adult family life, weathered major career shifts, and ultimately resulted in a peaceful separation and successful co-parenting partnership.
The Early Years and a 22-Year History
The connection between Ant and Louise dates back to their youth. Ant has noted publicly that they spent roughly 22 years together, sharing a history that stretched from their teenage years through early adulthood. Long before television crews, custom car builds, and international fame entered the picture, they built their lives side by side in the United Kingdom.
During the initial stages of their relationship, they welcomed two children: daughter Amelie, born in 2003, and son Archie, born in 2006. The couple officially tied the knot in a private ceremony in 2005, after their children were born. For over a decade of marriage, Louise maintained a private profile, rarely seeking public attention while her husband's career in automotive restoration and television grew.
Separation and Divorce in 2017
By 2017, the dynamics of their long-term relationship had shifted. The couple separated in July 2017, and Ant publicly announced the separation later that year in October.
Neither Louise nor Ant aired private grievances or detailed the underlying causes of their divorce in public. They chose to handle the transition quietly, focusing primarily on the well-being of Amelie and Archie. Their legal divorce was finalized around the same period Ant began transitioning into new chapters of his life and career, including his move to the United States and subsequent relationship with American television personality Christina Haack.
Co-Parenting and Remaining Family
One of the most notable aspects of Louise and Ant's post-divorce dynamic is how they managed their split. Rather than engaging in public disputes—which frequently characterize television personality breakups—they maintained a cooperative co-parenting relationship.
Ant has spoken openly in interviews, including with outlets like Us Weekly, emphasizing that he and Louise remained close friends. He noted that because they share two children, they would always remain family. This mutual respect allowed them to navigate teenage and adolescent milestones for Amelie and Archie with stability and low conflict.
Life After Divorce: Remarriage and the Name Storey
Following the conclusion of her marriage to Ant, Louise chose to step even further out of the public eye while rebuilding her personal life.
In 2021, her life took a joyful new turn when she remarried. The marriage became public knowledge when her daughter Amelie shared photographs on Instagram from the wedding ceremony. The images featured Amelie in a periwinkle bridesmaid dress alongside Archie, wedding guests, and Louise with her new husband.
Following this marriage, she adopted the surname Storey, transitioning away from the public association with her former married name. True to their amicable co-parenting stance, Ant publicly congratulated Louise and her new husband, wishing them a lifetime of happiness together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Louise Storey?
Louise Storey is a private British citizen best known as the first wife of television host and car builder Ant Anstead. She was married to Ant for twelve years, though their overall relationship spanned 22 years from their youth.
How long were Louise Storey and Ant Anstead married?
They were married in 2005 after having their first child together. After separating in July 2017, their divorce was finalized later that year, marking a total marriage duration of twelve years and a total partnership of over two decades.
Do Louise Storey and Ant Anstead have children?
Yes, they share two children: a daughter named Amelie (born in 2003) and a son named Archie (born in 2006). Both children grew up maintaining a close relationship with both parents.
When did Louise Storey remarry?
Louise remarried in 2021. Her remarriage came to light through family social media posts shared by her daughter Amelie, after which she began using the surname Storey.
