After nearly three decades of marriage, Richard Hammond beloved former Top Gear host, and his wife, Mindy, have officially parted ways. The couple announced their separation in early 2025, leaving many fans wondering what led to the end of such a long-standing relationship.
So, why did Richard Hammond get divorced? The truth is a blend of personal evolution, emotional maturity, and mutual respect. This article explores everything we know, from their official statements and interviews to the real reasons behind the split.
Who Are Richard and Mindy Hammond?
Image – Source
Richard Hammond, known for co-presenting Top Gear and The Grand Tour, has been a familiar face on British television since the early 2000s. His charisma, love of cars, and survival of a near-fatal crash in 2006 cemented his place in pop culture.
Mindy Hammond (née Etheridge) is a journalist and writer who has maintained a low media profile over the years. The couple married in 2002 and share two daughters. Their relationship was often seen as a grounded and loving partnership, away from the typical showbiz drama.
When Did Richard Hammond and Mindy Split?
The couple announced their divorce in January 2025, marking the end of “28 amazing years together.” Although they were married for 23 years, they had been together as a couple for nearly three decades.
Their official statement read:
“Our marriage is coming to an end, but we’ve had an amazing 28 years together and two incredible daughters. We will always be in each other’s lives and are proud of the family we created.”
Who Initiated the Divorce – Richard or Mindy?
Image – Source
According to insider reports, while the decision was mutual, it was Mindy who initiated the divorce. Richard Hammond confirmed that the choice to separate was agreed upon together, but hinted that Mindy may have taken the first step.
Speaking to the media, Hammond said:
“It’s a decision we took. Things change that’s what happens at this age. Big things change.”
His words reflect acceptance, and perhaps some pain, but also maturity in handling such a major life change.
Was There a Third Party Involved in the Divorce?
There is no evidence or suggestion of a third party being involved in the split. Both Richard and Mindy have handled the announcement with dignity and have kept the focus on their shared past and family, rather than any scandal.
This separation seems to be one of mutual respect, rather than conflict or betrayal.
How Has Richard Hammond Responded to the Divorce Emotionally?
Image – Source
Richard Hammond has been candid about the emotional toll the divorce has taken on him. In an interview, he compared the difficulty of the divorce to his 2006 crash, which left him in a two-week coma and resulted in a traumatic brain injury.
He said:
“It’s one of the hardest challenges I’ve ever faced.”
Despite the pain, Hammond has chosen to adopt a positive attitude, stating that he’s focusing on the future and embracing the changes life has thrown at him.
What Has Richard Hammond Said Publicly About the Split?
Hammond addressed the divorce directly during a recent appearance on Good Morning Britain. When asked about his personal changes over the past year, he said:
“Yeah, well we wanted to get that out of the way and done because I got divorced this year. So at the beginning [of the show], we said, ‘There’s been a few changes to the workshop and a little bit of a change to my situation,’ and then we move on very quickly.”
He also plans to speak about the divorce more openly in the upcoming season of his Discovery+ series, Richard Hammond’s Workshop.
Why Did the Marriage Come to an End After 28 Years?
Image – Source
In Hammond’s own words: “Things change.”
This simple yet poignant phrase sums up the nature of many long-term relationships. As people grow and evolve, even the strongest partnerships may shift or reach a natural conclusion. There were no public arguments, affairs, or drama, just a natural end to a long and loving chapter.
The couple have expressed pride in their shared life and family, showing that endings don’t always have to be messy.
What’s Next for Richard Hammond After the Divorce?
Hammond has said he’s focused on staying positive and moving forward. Professionally, he continues with his projects, including his popular show Richard Hammond’s Workshop. He has also voiced support for the return of Top Gear, a show he’s still passionate about.
Personally, while he’s been open about the emotional strain of the divorce, he appears committed to growth, healing, and keeping family relationships strong.
How Have Fans Reacted to the Divorce News?
Fans have largely responded with empathy and support. Given the couple’s reputation for being low-key and drama-free, many appreciated the honesty in their statement and Hammond’s willingness to talk openly about such a difficult topic.
The public has especially admired Hammond’s comparison of the emotional pain of divorce to his life-threatening crash, which reflects just how deeply affected he has been.
Did Richard Hammond Compare His Divorce to His Top Gear Crash?
Yes, he did. The emotional weight of the divorce, he said, was on par with his 2006 high-speed crash while filming Top Gear. That accident left him in a coma and required long-term recovery.
To draw such a comparison shows how deeply personal and life-altering this divorce has been for him. However, just as he recovered from that crash, Hammond appears determined to recover from this chapter as well.
What Can We Learn from Richard Hammond’s Divorce?
Image – Source
Richard Hammond’s divorce is a reminder that even seemingly perfect relationships can come to an end not out of conflict, but due to natural changes in life.
The respectful tone, mutual understanding, and open communication shown by both Richard and Mindy can serve as a model for how to handle separation with grace.
Quick Comparison Table: Facts vs. Rumours
| Topic | Rumour | Verified Fact |
| Marital Status | Still married | Divorced as of January 2025 |
| Divorce Reason | Infidelity or drama | A natural end to the relationship after 28 years |
| Initiator | Richard Hammond | Reports suggest Mindy initiated the split |
| Third Party Involvement | Possibly involved | No third party involved, confirmed by both parties |
| Richard’s Emotional State | Unaffected | Compared the emotional impact to his 2006 crash |
| Public Address | Silent on matter | Discussed on GMB and will address it in Richard’s Workshop |
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Richard Hammond and Mindy get divorced in 2025?
Yes, they officially announced their separation in January 2025 after 28 years together.
Why did Richard Hammond and his wife split up?
According to Hammond, it was a mutual decision that reflected natural life changes, with no third-party involvement.
Who decided to end the marriage?
Insider reports suggest Mindy initiated the divorce, though both called it a mutual decision.
Has Richard Hammond talked about the divorce publicly?
Yes. He discussed it briefly on Good Morning Britain and will speak further about it in Richard Hammond’s Workshop.
Is Richard Hammond okay after the divorce?
He has admitted it’s been emotionally challenging, even comparing it to his 2006 crash, but he’s focusing on staying positive.
Will the divorce affect his TV career?
Not at all. Hammond is continuing with his shows and has hinted at future projects, including support for Top Gear’s return.
Are Richard and Mindy still on good terms?
Yes. They released a joint statement highlighting their mutual respect and love for the family they created.
Featured Image – Source
