Dec Donnelly: Children, Brother Death, Health, and Ant Friendship

For millions of Britons, Dec Donnelly is the ever-smiling half of the nation’s favourite presenting duo. But behind the primetime grin lies a story of personal heartbreak, a growing family, and a friendship that has weathered more than most.

Full Name: Declan Joseph Oliver Donnelly ·
Date of Birth: 25 September 1975 ·
Occupation: Television presenter, actor, comedian ·
Spouse: Ali Astall ·
Children: 2 (Jack Anthony Alphonsus Donnelly and daughter) ·
Brother: Dermott Donnelly (died 2023)

Six key facts about Dec Donnelly, one pattern: his public persona as a TV host contrasts sharply with a private life marked by loss and resilience.

The data below outlines Dec’s biographical details at a glance.

How many children does Dec have?

Dec Donnelly and his wife Ali Astall have two children. Their first child, a daughter named Isla Elizabeth Anne, was born in September 2018, as reported by BBC News (UK broadcaster). Their second child, a son named Jack Anthony Alphonsus Donnelly, arrived later, according to znaki.fm (celebrity database).

Who are Dec Donnelly’s children?

• Isla Elizabeth Anne Donnelly (born September 2018)
• Jack Anthony Alphonsus Donnelly (born after 2018)

The family resides in Newcastle, where Dec grew up. In 2021, Dec took paternity leave following the birth of his second child, stepping back from his presenting duties temporarily.

What happened to Dec Donnelly’s brother?

Dec Donnelly’s older brother, Father Dermott Donnelly, died in hospital after a short illness in July 2022. He was 55 years old. The Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle confirmed his death, as reported by BBC News (regional news service).

Who was Dermott Donnelly?

Dermott Donnelly was a Roman Catholic priest who had served for around 30 years. Before entering the priesthood, he was a semi-professional footballer. He was also a well-known figure in the Newcastle area, often seen at local events.

What illness did Dermott Donnelly have?

The exact cause of Dermott Donnelly’s death has not been publicly disclosed. Reports from Premier Christian News (religious news outlet) stated he had been “seriously unwell” before his death, but the family has kept the specific details private.

Dec Donnelly described the loss as a “heartbreak” in a public message, according to The Mirror (UK tabloid). He paid tribute to his brother at the funeral in late July 2022, with The Independent (UK newspaper) reporting that Dec described Dermott as “fantastic.” Ant McPartlin also publicly responded to the death, as noted by Express (UK news outlet).

What illness does Declan Donnelly have?

Dec Donnelly has not publicly disclosed any major illness. Despite persistent rumors online, there is no verified report from a credible source indicating that Dec has a serious health condition. His public appearances remain consistent, and he continues to host major TV shows.

Does Dec Donnelly have any health problems?

No credible reports confirm any health problems for Dec Donnelly. The rumors appear to stem from confusion with his presenting partner, Ant McPartlin, who has been open about his struggles.

What about Ant McPartlin’s health?

Ant McPartlin has been transparent about his battles with addiction and mental health. In 2017, he entered rehab for prescription drug addiction, and later sought treatment for alcohol addiction. These are well-documented by BBC News (UK broadcaster) and other major outlets.

Do Ant and Dec still live next to each other?

Ant and Dec have been friends since childhood, meeting as teenagers on the set of the children’s drama “Byker Grove.” They previously lived next door to each other in London, but both have since moved. Ant now lives in Hampshire, while Dec resides in Newcastle with his family.

Are Ant and Dec still friends?

Yes. Despite living apart, Ant and Dec remain close friends and continue to work together on shows like “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” and “Britain’s Got Talent.” Their partnership is one of the longest-running in British television, as documented by Wikipedia (online encyclopedia).

Where do Ant and Dec live?

• Ant McPartlin: Hampshire
• Dec Donnelly: Newcastle-upon-Tyne

The move apart was a natural progression as both started families. Dec’s return to Newcastle was particularly significant, bringing him closer to his roots and his extended family.

Why does Kelly Brook not like Ant and Dec?

Kelly Brook had a public feud with Ant and Dec after they made jokes about her on their show. Brook accused the duo of bullying and made negative comments about them in interviews. The feud resurfaced in 2023 when Brook made a remark on a podcast, reigniting public interest.

What was the feud between Kelly Brook and Ant and Dec?

The feud dates back to the early 2000s when Ant and Dec reportedly made jokes about Brook’s appearance on their show “Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway.” Brook later claimed the jokes were hurtful and accused the duo of bullying. The exact details of the jokes have not been fully documented by major sources.

Did Kelly Brook and Ant and Dec have a falling out?

Yes. Brook has been vocal about her dislike for the duo in multiple interviews. In 2023, she discussed the feud on a podcast, saying she still felt the jokes were inappropriate. Neither Ant nor Dec has publicly responded to the resurfaced comments in detail.

Timeline: Key events in Dec Donnelly’s life

• 25 September 1975: Declan Donnelly born in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
• 1990s: Ant and Dec begin their television career on “Byker Grove”
• 2017: Ant McPartlin enters rehab for prescription drug addiction
• 2018: Dec and Ali Astall welcome daughter Isla Elizabeth Anne
• 2021: Dec takes paternity leave for second child (son Jack)
• July 2022: Dec’s brother Dermott Donnelly dies after illness
• 2023: Kelly Brook’s feud with Ant and Dec resurfaces

Related reading: **Brenda Edwards: X Factor, Son’s Death, Weight Loss, Relationship**

For a deeper look into Dec Donnelly’s family and net worth, you can read more at Dec Donnellys family and net worth.

Frequently asked questions

For Dec Donnelly, the choice between public life and private family has been a careful balancing act. The implication is clear: he has chosen Newcastle over London, family over fame, and silence over spectacle — a path that has kept him grounded through loss, fatherhood, and a career that shows no signs of slowing down.