Former Little Mix singer Jade Thirlwall and Rizzle Kicks musician Jordan Stephens have parted ways after a 6-year relationship. The 33-year-old pop star and the 34-year-old musician, who have been together since 2020 and divided their time between London and Margate, reached the decision following open discussions about their future. While the separation occurred earlier in the year, news of their split emerged publicly on 22 July 2026.
Rumours surrounding the couple’s relationship status had circulated for several months following noticeable absences at key events. Their final public appearance together took place at the Brit Awards in February, where they also featured on BBC One’s Michael McIntyre’s Big Show.
Speculation intensified in June when 33-year-old Thirlwall attended the wedding of her former Little Mix bandmate Perrie Edwards without Stephens by her side. The couple subsequently broke tradition by omitting any public acknowledgment of their 6th anniversary across social media platforms.
“Jade and Jordan had a very serious and loving relationship, but recently they had some honest conversations about their future and decided to separate,” explained an insider close to the couple to The Sun.
Sources added that while the decision proved emotional for both parties, they maintain mutual respect and remain focused on their respective professional commitments.
Following the split, both artists have maintained high-profile work schedules within the UK music and entertainment sectors. Thirlwall launched her solo recording career in 2024 under the mononym JADE following Little Mix’s hiatus.
Meanwhile, 2026 has marked a major career resurgence for 34-year-old Stephens, who reunited with his Rizzle Kicks bandmate Harley. Additionally, in June, he stepped in as co-host of the hit podcast Miss Me? alongside Miquita Oliver, filling the role previously held by Lily Allen.
“Relationships ending for public figures with demanding parallel careers often require significant lifestyle adjustments to preserve emotional well-being,” noted Mette Poulsen, certified relationship counsellor and sociologist at Danish Relational Therapy.
Expert analysis suggests that immersing oneself in professional creative projects often serves as an effective coping mechanism during life transitions.
Ending a long-term partnership involves considerable emotional disruption and significant adjustments to daily routines. Relational health specialists emphasise that establishing strong personal support systems remains critical when processing the conclusion of a long-standing relationship.
It is important to note, however, that individual psychological responses to relationship breakdowns vary considerably, and expert advice from a qualified psychologist, registered counsellor, or NHS mental health practitioner should always be sought during periods of personal crisis.
Neither Jade Thirlwall nor Jordan Stephens has issued an official statement regarding the separation.
