Alain de Botton, the author and television philosopher known for his works on love and relationships, has separated from his wife of more than 20 years, Charlotte de Botton. The couple, who co-founded The School of Life, an organisation focused on emotional intelligence and personal development, are reportedly living in separate homes on the same street in north London.
De Botton, 56, gained recognition for books such as *The Romantic Movement*, *Essays In Love*, *How To Think More About Sex*, and *The Consolations of Philosophy*. He and Charlotte, 54, married in 2003 after meeting at a restaurant in London’s Notting Hill. The couple share two children.
A close source confirmed the split, adding that Alain de Botton has been seen with a new partner, including at the recent wedding of film producer Jemima Goldsmith and financier Cameron O'Reilly in Oxfordshire. Both Alain and Charlotte have chosen not to comment publicly on the situation.
Charlotte de Botton was not only a co-founder of The School of Life but also handled the financial and legal aspects of Seneca Productions, the television company responsible for de Botton’s Channel 4 documentaries *Status Anxiety* and *The Perfect Home*.
The separation comes amid a history of public scrutiny regarding Alain de Botton’s views on relationships. He once shared an aphorism online suggesting that love must extend beyond physical appearance, a comment that sparked criticism among his followers, with novelist Jojo Moyes publicly sympathising with Charlotte.
In an interview last November, Alain de Botton reflected on relationships by stating, "I’m a big believer in good endings of relationships," indicating a more optimistic view on breakups and closures.
The news highlights a personal chapter unfolding behind the public personas of one of philosophy’s more accessible figures and his partner, who has played a significant role in his professional endeavours.