London, UK – In a revelation that has stunned fans of Britain’s most beloved TV duo, Declan Donnelly and his wife Ali Astall are reportedly bound by a secret “10-year marriage pact” — and one particular rule in the agreement has even left his longtime co-host Ant McPartlin speechless.
According to a close family insider, the couple — who tied the knot in 2015 — made a private pact in the early days of their marriage to protect their relationship from the pressures of fame, parenthood, and the ever-demanding world of British television.
The most surprising detail? The agreement reportedly includes a mutual clause that every 10 years, both partners must “re-interview” each other — as if applying for the role of husband and wife again.
“They literally sit down, just the two of them, no phones, no distractions,” the source revealed. “Each writes a private letter answering two questions: ‘Do I still choose you?’ and ‘What do I need more of from you?’”
This unconventional practice, insiders say, is meant to ensure they never fall into emotional autopilot — and forces honesty, even when it’s uncomfortable. The first of these “marriage reviews” allegedly took place earlier this year, marking their 10th anniversary together as a couple (they began dating in 2014 before marrying in 2015).
But what left Ant — Declan’s best friend and professional partner for over three decades — genuinely floored wasn’t the emotional letters. It was another part of the pact: a rule that if either partner says “no” to the question “Do I still choose you?”, they agree to separate amicably with zero legal battle.
“That’s the part that really shook Ant,” said a person close to the duo. “He said to Dec, ‘You’re telling me you give her a get-out card every ten years?!’ And Dec just nodded and said, ‘Freedom is the foundation of love.’”
The couple, who share a daughter together, have always been private about their relationship, rarely appearing in tabloids or red carpets. But this sudden glimpse into their personal philosophy has left fans with mixed emotions — from admiration to disbelief.
On social media, reactions ranged from “This is actually genius!” to “Sounds like a ticking time bomb.” But many praised the couple for being intentional and emotionally mature in an industry known for fleeting romances and backstage drama.
One fan tweeted:
“Dec and Ali treating marriage like an active partnership, not a fairy tale — respect.”
Neither Declan nor Ali has publicly confirmed or denied the story, and representatives for Donnelly declined to comment. But those who know the couple say they are “stronger than ever” after their recent marriage review — and already joking about the next one in 2035.
As for Ant? Sources say he’s “mildly terrified” his own wife might hear about the pact and want to start one herself.
Stay tuned… it looks like even Britain’s most grounded TV star has a few surprises up his sleeve — and maybe in a sealed envelope at the back of a drawer.