Lisa Armstrong's best friend details makeup artist's 'rough time' following split from Ant McPartlin - but insists she's 'not bitter and is moving on'
Published July 9, 2026 · US

Lisa Armstrong's best pal and former Deuce bandmate Craig Robert Young has opened up about her rocky split from Ant McPartlin.
Lisa Armstrong, renowned makeup artist and former member of the 1990s pop group Deuce, has charted a path of resilience and professional success since her 2018 divorce from television presenter Ant McPartlin. Their marriage, which lasted over a decade, ended amid public acrimony, but Armstrong has since redirected her energy into her flourishing career and personal life.
Armstrong's friendship with Craig Robert Young, her former Deuce bandmate, sheds light on the personal hurdles she has faced in recent years. Young, now based in Los Angeles, remains close to Armstrong, who frequently visits him there. He highlights her unwavering passion for makeup artistry, noting her prominent role on the popular show Strictly Come Dancing as evidence of her professional dedication.
Related stories
Despite the emotional toll following the dissolution of her long-term relationship with McPartlin, Armstrong has demonstrated remarkable tenacity. The couple, who first met in the mid-1990s during their early entertainment careers, had been together for over two decades before parting ways. Their shared history traces back to a time when Armstrong was performing with Deuce and McPartlin was rising to fame with his partner Declan Donnelly.
Since the divorce, Armstrong has endured other significant personal setbacks, including the end of her relationship with actor Grant Kilburn earlier this year. Additionally, she faced a severe challenge when a fire damaged her Chiswick home, an investment she made following her separation. These incidents, while difficult, have not diminished her resolve.
Armstrong's ability to move past adversity is further underscored by the nuanced relationship she maintains with McPartlin. Although their marriage ended, recent events—such as the passing of their shared pet dog, Hurley—have prompted moments of reconciliation. Reports indicate McPartlin organized flowers to be sent to Armstrong following Hurley's death, a gesture that marked a rare thaw in their interactions.
Professionally, Armstrong's career continues to thrive, with her role on Strictly Come Dancing positioning her as a leading figure in the makeup industry. Her commitment to her craft and steady presence in the entertainment world underscore a significant evolution from her early days as a pop artist to a respected behind-the-scenes contributor.
The trajectory of Armstrong's life post-divorce reflects a broader narrative of transformation and endurance. With support from close friends like Young and her focus on professional achievements, she embodies the capacity to rebuild and redefine oneself following public and personal upheaval.
While details about her current personal relationships remain limited, Armstrong's story illustrates a determined progression toward stability and contentment. Her journey serves as a reminder of the complexities faced by public figures balancing career ambitions with private challenges.
In contrast, McPartlin has moved forward with his own family life, marrying his former assistant and welcoming a child, signaling divergent paths for the former couple. Nevertheless, the occasional shared moments suggest that, despite their separation, a respectful connection endures.
Lisa Armstrong’s experience underscores the intricate interplay between fame, personal adversity, and professional reinvention, highlighting her ongoing evolution within the entertainment industry.
Full story & global impact
This article was synthesized and rewritten by MusicTop Editorial from reporting published by dailymail.com. Read the publisher's report for the complete source context.
Read original source: dailymail.com