Richard Hammond, 53, known for his role in the iconic TV series Top Gear and The Grand Tour, recently announced his separation from his wife, Amanda “Mindy” Hammond, 58. The couple, who had been together for 28 years and married for 23, have decided to part ways. The separation comes after Mindy reportedly expressed her desire for Richard to move out of their shared estate, Bollitree Castle, a stunning property in Herefordshire that has been their home for the past 17 years.
The Announcement
Taking to his X account, Richard addressed the speculation surrounding his relationship, confirming the split in a heartfelt statement. He wrote, “A little update from us; this Christmas we were together as a family and this year we will still be a family but just structured a bit differently. Our marriage is coming to an end, but we’ve had an amazing 28 years together and two incredible daughters. We will always be in each other’s lives and are proud of the family we created.”
He concluded by requesting privacy for his family during this transitional period. “We won’t be commenting further and sincerely hope that our privacy and that of our children will be respected at this time. With love, Richard and Mindy.”
A Long-Standing Partnership
Richard and Mindy first met in 1995, and their connection was instantaneous. In his autobiography On The Edge, Hammond described her as his “soulmate and best friend for life.” The couple went on to marry in 2002 and built a life together, raising two daughters: Izzy, 24, and Willow, 20.
Their shared home, Bollitree Castle, has been a cornerstone of their family life. The property, complete with a swimming pool and 20 acres of land, holds significant sentimental value. Izzy still resides on the estate and works closely with her father, contributing to their podcast Who We Are Now and helping in his garage. Willow, meanwhile, lives nearby in her own rented home.
The Challenges Behind the Split
Sources close to the family have suggested that the decision to separate came from Mindy’s request for Richard to leave the estate. Despite Hammond’s efforts to rekindle their relationship, these attempts were reportedly unsuccessful. A source told The Sun, “Richard is very upset about all this. It seems he has tried hard to rekindle the relationship but to no avail. There is no speculation that any third party is involved.”
The separation marks a significant change in the lives of both Richard and Mindy, who have navigated numerous challenges together over the years, including Richard’s near-fatal crashes and subsequent health struggles.
Triumphs and Trials
Richard Hammond’s career has been marked by thrilling achievements and personal setbacks. In 2006, he survived a devastating 288mph crash while filming for Top Gear, which resulted in a brain injury. Upon waking, he initially did not recognize Mindy, and the years that followed were fraught with memory loss, depression, and difficulties in emotional connection.
Despite these challenges, Richard found his way back to the driver’s seat, demonstrating remarkable resilience. He faced another crash in 2017 while filming The Grand Tour, suffering a fractured knee but escaping further harm. Throughout these trials, Mindy was a steadfast presence, supporting him through recovery and life’s hurdles.
Bollitree Castle: A Family Legacy
Bollitree Castle has been more than just a home for the Hammond family. The property’s history and sentimental value have made it a cherished part of their lives. Izzy, who still lives on the estate, has expressed her connection to the home, while Willow’s proximity underscores the family’s tight-knit dynamic.
As part of the divorce settlement, it is believed that Mindy wishes to retain the estate. The castle, which boasts luxurious features and picturesque surroundings, has been a focal point of family gatherings and milestones.
Moving Forward
Richard Hammond’s estimated net worth of £35 million places him among the wealthiest figures in British television. While his financial success offers stability during this period of personal upheaval, the separation represents a significant emotional shift for the presenter.
Hammond’s public statement reflects a commitment to maintaining a positive family dynamic despite the changes. Both he and Mindy have emphasized their dedication to co-parenting and remaining involved in their daughters’ lives.
Conclusion
The end of Richard and Mindy Hammond’s marriage marks the conclusion of a partnership that spanned nearly three decades. While the separation brings challenges, it also presents an opportunity for both individuals to embrace new beginnings. Their mutual respect and love for their daughters remain central as they navigate this transition, and their request for privacy underscores the importance of handling such matters with dignity and care.