Justin Trudeau and Sophie Gregoire: What did them part after 18 married years?

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau have taken the world by surprise by revealing their separation after 18 years of marriage. 

Let's take a look at the events that 'did them part'.

The couple, who have been in the spotlight since Trudeau assumed office in 2015, tied the knot in 2005, garnering significant media attention due to their high-profile status.

Trudeau, aged 51, comes from a political lineage, with his father Pierre Elliott Trudeau having served as Canada's prime minister for 15 years. 

Before entering politics, Trudeau worked as a teacher, while Gregoire Trudeau, aged 48, had a background in entertainment journalism. Together, they have three children: Xavier, Ella Grace, and Hadrien, aged 15, 14, and 9 respectively.

Throughout their marriage, Trudeau and Gregoire Trudeau have acknowledged the challenges they faced.

 In his 2014 autobiography, Trudeau described Sophie as his best friend and confidante, emphasising their commitment to honesty and openness. 

Sophie, in a 2015 interview, spoke about the difficulties inherent in any marriage, emphasising their shared desire for authenticity and personal growth.

Despite the ups and downs, the couple frequently expressed their love and unity on social media, particularly during special occasions such as anniversaries and birthdays. 

Trudeau's heartfelt Instagram messages to Sophie showcased their deep affection and unwavering bond.

The unexpected announcement of their separation has left many surprised and contemplating the complexities of maintaining a marriage under the public eye. 

As Trudeau and Gregoire Trudeau navigate this new chapter in their lives, their decision serves as a reminder that even high-profile couples face their own set of challenges and struggles.

'Sunny days, heavy storms'

In his 2014 memoir "Common Ground," the younger Trudeau recalled that the "dark drama" at home and his parents' eventual divorce had been hard on him.

His breakup comes as Trudeau's ruling Liberals are struggling in the polls against the opposition Conservatives ahead of elections expected before the end of 2025.

Trudeau announced last week a major shakeup in his cabinet with the stated goal of strengthening his economic team ahead of that looming campaign.

This involved changing more than two-thirds of his political inner circle, with seven recruits joining the cabinet and around 20 ministers reassigned to new roles.

Sophie Gregoire, 48, had been a constant presence at her 51-year-old husband's side at political events over the past decade, as he took the party from third place to form a government in 2015, and through two more winning ballots in 2019 and 2021.

But she has appeared in public less in recent years, at times lamenting the struggles of marriage, saying last year in a social media post that they had "navigated through sunny days, heavy storms and everything in between."

Trudeau himself has also hinted at difficulties, writing in his memoir: "Our marriage isn't perfect, and we have had difficult ups and downs, yet Sophie remains my best friend, my partner, my love. We are honest with each other, even when it hurts."

On their latest anniversary in May, Trudeau posted a photo online of the pair holding hands as they drove along a remote Canadian highway in a motor home, with the caption "Every mile of this journey together is an adventure. I love you Soph."