By The London Lifestyle Review | Family & Real Life
In a surprise development that has delighted both fans and colleagues, beloved presenter Declan Donnelly has reportedly announced a six-month career hiatus — not to escape the spotlight, but to embark on a special family project across Britain with his wife Ali Astall and their two children.
🛤️ The Ultimate Family Trip
According to sources close to the Donnelly family, their planned break will centre entirely around a UK tour adventure, focusing on culturally rich experiences rather than foreign travel. Highlights include:
Visiting national parks, heritage sites, and seaside towns
Engaging in creative and educational workshops
Dedicating quality time to family bonding, free from media and work distractions
“Dec and Ali felt the timing was perfect — their children are at an age where these experiences will truly stay with them,” said an insider.
⚠️ Abrupt Career Pause Confirmed
Donnelly’s personal assistant announced two significant updates this week:
A complete pause on all media commitments (including Britain’s Got Talent and other ITV projects) from October 2025 through March 2026.
Ali Astall has also stepped back from her consultancy work to join the adventure full-time.
👨👩👧👦 Why the UK?
The couple believe rediscovering Britain’s beauty and heritage, rather than travelling abroad, will bring their family closer to “home roots and community spirit”. Scouts for the trip emphasised locations with hands-on activities, local crafts, and story-led exploration.
🗣️ Friends Say It’s About Family, Not Fame
“It’s not a break from everything — it’s a break to focus on what matters,” revealed a friend. “They want their kids to ride paddle boats, explore castles, learn, and laugh together — no schedules, no audience.”
❤️ Fan Reaction
As expected, social media responded with warmth and admiration:
“Dec taking time off to build memories with his kids — absolute legend.”
“Kudos to Ali for pausing her career too. This is real parenting.”
📅 What’s Next
While no firm itinerary has been released, there’s anticipation that Donnelly may share glimpses of the journey via a potential limited documentary series — a heartfelt sequel to his work with Ant McPartlin.
In the meantime, ITV sources indicate that Dec’s hiatus has been approved, with a planned return for a late-2026 slate of shows.
Bottom line? Declan Donnelly is pressing pause on his career — not to run away, but to run toward something meaningful: quality time, childhood wonder, and the magic of Britain through the eyes of family.
The London Lifestyle Review will follow this heartwarming journey as it unfolds.