Alesha Dixon and Azuka Ononye, once a prominent couple in the entertainment spotlight, have recently confirmed their split after an 18-year relationship. The Britain's Got Talent judge, who is 46, acknowledged to close friends that their romantic ties have come to an end, a revelation that surprised many of their fans, as it comes just months after they were last seen together. The couple shares two daughters, Azura, 10, and Anaya, four, and despite their separation, they are continuing to cohabitate for the sake of their family.
Speculation about the status of their relationship first emerged in November 2024, when reports indicated that the pair had begun to drift apart. Insiders revealed that they were living separately but together, maintaining stability for their children during this transitional period. According to sources, the couple is navigating their separation as amicably as possible, which includes sharing their responsibilities as parents.
Dixon recently took time off to visit Jamaica, specifically the luxurious GoldenEye resort renowned for its history and beauty, costing approximately £1,000 per night. Described as her favorite getaway spot, Nicholson's trip facilitated a much-needed escape amidst the turbulence of her personal life. A source close to Dixon shared with The Sun, "Alesha confirmed she's split from Azuka and is navigating that as best she can." This getaway also gave her moments to reflect on her relationship.
The couple's last public appearance together was in July 2023 at Stormzy's 30th birthday bash, where insiders noted that they appeared distant. Many fans have pointed out their increasingly quiet social media presence regarding one another in the months leading up to their split, noting that they had not posted or interacted online since past years. Azuka, who had worked with Alesha since their initial meeting in 2006—a relationship that transitioned from professional to personal—has not used social platforms frequently, with his last post involving her dating back to 2021.
Alesha and Azuka first met nearly two decades ago, after Dixon's brief marriage to rapper MC Harvey came to an end. Initially, Azuka served as Alesha's creative director after starting his career as a backup dancer for her group, Mis-Teeq. During an interview on The Jonathan Ross Show in 2018, Alesha recounted, "He was sleeping on the floor because I was on the couch; I couldn't even get up the stairs. If he can carry me to the toilet, then he's a keeper." Her sentiments about Azuka expressed their deep bond throughout their years together.
Earlier in their relationship, Alesha confessed about the initial phase of dating Azuka, stating that she played 'hard to get' during the first year. It wasn't until she had a foot operation that their relationship blossomed into something deeper, where she needed his assistance daily. This dependency revealed a powerful bond she never anticipated, making Alesha realize what true partnership looked like.
A significant milestone in their relationship was rumored to have taken place back in 2017 when Alesha introduced Azuka as her "lovely husband" during an appearance on Michael McIntyre's Big Show Christmas Special. However, the details surrounding their marriage have not been publicly confirmed.
As a mother, Alesha always emphasized the importance of family and an environment conducive to raising their daughters. She stated in a 2020 podcast, “Azuka was the first person that I’d met that I knew that we could have children together because of our values, our morals, our thinking aligned.” She also noted her responsibility in creating a loving home, making a “conscious effort” for both of her daughters to have supportive role models.
In the light of their recent split, both Alesha and Azuka were spotted separately attending rapper Nas’ concert in November 2024. They sat on opposite sides of the venue, and photographs revealed Alesha trying to hide her left hand, where she had previously worn a ring. This sudden change in dynamics drew attention, and it became apparent that the decision to part ways was on the horizon.
Despite the emotional turmoil, Alesha remains committed to co-parenting their daughters and creating a harmonious environment for her family. According to a friend, the couple’s transition from a romantic relationship to a platonic one has been handled with care. The commitment to their family unit remains a priority, and both parents are actively engaged in their children's lives.
Alesha Dixon's journey through this personal chapter underscores the complexities faced by many when relationships evolve over lengthy periods. While her professional life continues to flourish on shows like Britain's Got Talent, the shift in her personal life is undeniably significant. As both Alesha and Azuka navigate this new chapter, their dedication to their children remains at the forefront of their decisions.
