Joanna Lumley's First Marriage: Jeremy Lloyd
In 1970, Joanna Lumley married actor and writer Jeremy Lloyd. The couple's relationship was a whirlwind, lasting for a period of less than a year before they divorced in 1971. Lloyd was known for co-creating the popular sitcoms 'Allo 'Allo! and Are You Being Served?. Their brief union occurred early in both of their careers, with Lumley later joking, "He was witty, tall and charming ‒ we should have just had a raging affair".
The Aftermath of Her First Marriage
Following her divorce from Jeremy Lloyd and before her second marriage, Lumley had a son, Jamie, with photographer Michael Claydon. She raised Jamie as a single mother, describing him as a "miracle" after doctors had told her she couldn't have children. This period was a significant time in her personal life, as she balanced motherhood with her burgeoning acting career.
Joanna Lumley's Second Marriage: Stephen Barlow
Joanna Lumley's second and current marriage is to conductor Stephen Barlow. The couple wed in 1986 and have been together for nearly four decades. They first met at a mutual friend's wedding and experienced an immediate and profound connection. Lumley described the meeting as a kind of "electric shock". Their long-lasting relationship is one of the more stable partnerships in the celebrity world.
Life with Stephen Barlow
- A strong, enduring partnership: The couple's marriage has been noted for its longevity and mutual respect. They have been married for over 38 years and are known to be very supportive of each other's careers.
- Shared interests and independence: While they are a strong team, both Lumley and Barlow maintain a sense of independence, which Lumley has credited for their lasting success. They both have demanding careers that require extensive travel.
- Romantic gestures: Despite being apart for work, Lumley and Barlow famously maintain their romance by writing notes and postcards to each other.
- Joint projects: In addition to their separate careers, the couple has collaborated on projects, including a podcast.
Comparison of Joanna Lumley's Marriages
| Aspect | First Marriage (Jeremy Lloyd) | Second Marriage (Stephen Barlow) |
|---|---|---|
| Year Married | 1970 | 1986 |
| Partner's Profession | Actor, writer | Conductor, composer |
| Duration | Less than one year | Ongoing (as of 2025) |
| Result | Divorced | Long-standing and successful |
| Relationship Dynamic | Whirlwind, with Lumley later stating they should have had an affair | Based on deep respect, independence, and strong partnership |
Conclusion
Joanna Lumley has been married to two husbands throughout her life. Her first marriage to Jeremy Lloyd was brief, ending in divorce after less than a year. Her second marriage, to conductor Stephen Barlow, began in 1986 and has been a successful, lasting partnership. Their relationship stands as a testament to their mutual respect and independent spirits. Lumley's personal life, including raising her son Jamie as a single mother between marriages, is a testament to her strength and resilience.
For more details on Joanna Lumley's life and career, including her extensive activism and work on travel documentaries, you can read her Wikipedia entry.
