Celebrity chef James Martin has announced his engagement to girlfriend Kim Johnson, marking a significant personal U-turn for the star who had publicly vowed never to marry.
A Surprise Proposal After Years of Resistance
The 53-year-old presenter of Saturday Kitchen proposed to his personal trainer partner, 39-year-old Kim Johnson, following a two-year romance. The news comes as a surprise to many, given Martin's longstanding and vocal disinterest in matrimony.
A source close to the couple told The Sun: "James and Kim may have been dating for less than two years, but when you know, you know." The insider added, "Of course, it's taken James decades to finally get there and friends do share a wry smile that he's U-turned on his staunch refusal to ever marry."
From Catering Weddings to Planning His Own
James Martin's previous stance on marriage was well-documented. In a 2019 interview with the Sunday People, he explained his position, stating: "Marriage doesn't interest me in the slightest, mainly because I've catered for so many weddings, really." He added, "I admire people who do it, that's fine, but I'm quite happy. I don't need to spend £60,000 on a day, no, I'm more than happy, thanks."
Friends, however, have noted a profound change in the chef since he began his relationship with Johnson. The source emphasised: "But everyone has seen the change in him since meeting Kim and he's never been happier. They are a wonderful couple."
To mark the special occasion, Martin is believed to have gifted his new fiancée a Land Rover Defender.
Past Relationships for the Newly-Engaged Pair
Both individuals have had significant previous relationships. Martin was formerly in a relationship with Bond film producer Barbara Broccoli. He later spent 12 years with TV producer Louise Davies, a partnership that ended in December 2023.
Kim Johnson was previously married to businessman Arun Nayar, the ex-husband of actress Elizabeth Hurley. The pair wed in 2016 after five years together but separated the following year.
The engagement represents a new chapter for the couple, with friends and fans now eagerly awaiting further details about their wedding plans.
