Why ITV legend Trevor McDonald split from wife of 34 years for bachelor life in his 80s

Trevor McDonald (Image: Getty)

Veteran ITV newsreader Sir Trevor McDonald shocked fans in 2020 when he revealed that he had separated from his wife, Josephine, after many years together.

Known for keeping his personal life private, Trevor first married Beryl in 1964, but they divorced in 1985. A year later, he tied the knot with a woman named Josephine, with whom he shares a son named Jack.

They were together until their amicable split in 2020, reportedly driven by Trevor's desire to focus on his career.

According to The Sun at the time, a source close to the couple said, "It’s sad, but Trevor and Jo realised they weren’t making each other happy anymore, and it was time to move on. Trevor is still in high demand work-wise and wanted a fresh start. He feels young and still has a twinkle in his eye."

Trevor has been married twice before (Image: Getty)

The source added, “They have a long history, so they’re still in touch, and the split has been amicable. Trevor has moved into his own apartment, which friends jokingly call his bachelor pad. For now, he’s focused on his career.”

Trevor and Josephine reportedly met while working at ITN before marrying in 1986. As well as his son Jack, Trevor has two children from his first marriage.

Though he retired from his iconic role on News at Ten in 2008, McDonald has remained active, travelling the world for documentaries including Death Row with Trevor McDonald in 2018.

He is a renowned journalist (Image: Getty)

He is one of Britain’s most respected journalists and broadcasters. Originally from Trinidad, Trevor became the first Black news anchor in the UK, and over his distinguished career, he has covered some of the world’s most significant events, earning multiple awards and a knighthood for his contributions to journalism.

After quitting his role at ITN, Trevor said at the time: “I've tremendously enjoyed the opportunity to help re-establish News at Ten over the last year and to work alongside Julie Etchingham, who is a fantastically talented journalist, but I've made no secret of the fact that I cannot be in the presenter's chair forever.

Anchoring ITV News's live coverage of a hugely exciting and historic US election seems the opportune moment to leave on a high.”