The couple, who originally met at the Brit Awards, are believed to have separated in recent months after 18 years of marriage. Friends report that Steve Finan O’Connor, who managed the late Liam Payne for seven years, has moved out of the family home in Buckinghamshire, where the couple lived with their three sons.
The split is reportedly well-known within the music industry, where 60-year-old Steve Finan O’Connor is considered a “heavyweight.”
A source told The Mail on Sunday: “It’s such a shame because they are both lovely people and were always seen as a wonderful couple.”
“Despite their efforts to make it work, Steve and Denise ultimately found themselves drifting apart,” shared a source. “In the end, they decided that separating was likely the most sensible choice.”
The 51-year-old heptathlete, who serves as the President of UK Athletics, was seen without her wedding ring during her recent role as a BBC pundit for the Olympic Games coverage over the summer.
Additionally, the couple no longer follow each other on social media. Both Denise and Steve were deeply affected by the tragic passing of Liam last month, who fell from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires.
Steve Finan played a key role in guiding Liam Payne’s solo career following his departure from One Direction, while Dame Denise Lewis—who was honored last year for her contributions to sport—shared a close bond with the singer.
The couple supported Liam through his breakup with Cheryl Tweedy and his struggles with substance issues. Liam, 31, was a frequent guest at their home in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, and later purchased a mansion less than a mile away.
