British singer-songwriter Lily Allen has made a rare and heartfelt comment about whether her estranged husband, David Harbour, will remain involved in the lives of her two daughters following their separation earlier this year.
In a recent interview, the 40-year-old artist reflected on her evolving relationships — both with Harbour and her ex-husband Sam Cooper, with whom she shares her daughters Ethel Mary, 13, and Marnie Rose, 12.
Lily Allen on Her Split with David Harbour
After four years of marriage, Lily Allen and Stranger Things actor David Harbour called it quits earlier this year. Their relationship, which once appeared picture-perfect, had reportedly been under strain for several months before the separation.
When asked in the interview whether Harbour would continue to play a role as a stepfather in her daughters’ lives, Allen responded candidly, “You’ll have to ask him.”
While the singer didn’t elaborate much further, her response suggests that the future of Harbour’s relationship with her children remains uncertain. However, Allen expressed no animosity — instead, her tone reflected empathy and acceptance.
“I think we all suffer,” she admitted, noting that despite everything, she still feels compassion for her ex-husband.
A Blended Family Built on Change and Compassion
During the conversation, Lily Allen opened up about her improved relationship with ex-husband Sam Cooper, who she divorced in 2018.
“Me and Sam, we’ve got a good relationship — I wouldn’t say it’s a friendship, although we are friendly,” Allen explained. “His dad passed away earlier this year, and we spoke a lot on the phone around that time because I loved his dad. And of course, we share children together.”
Her comments reflect a mature co-parenting dynamic built on respect and emotional growth — something many parents can relate to after separation.
The singer also shared her appreciation for the experience her daughters gained while living in the United States during her marriage to Harbour. “My kids had an amazing experience living in America for five years,” she said, emphasizing her gratitude for that chapter of their lives.
Reflecting on Parenthood Through the Hard Times
Earlier this year, Lily Allen discussed the emotional challenges of parenting during difficult life periods on her BBC podcast Miss Me? Speaking with honesty and vulnerability, she said, “It’s really tough – they are always there and you have to be present and there for them.”
She went on to explain that being a parent can be both a source of joy and a challenge depending on one’s emotional state. “When things are going well and you’re coping, it’s really nice to have the kids around. They’re a joy — one of the main sources of happiness in one’s life,” she shared.
However, Allen acknowledged that when life feels overwhelming, “it’s really hard to hold things together.”
Despite the difficulties, Allen said she strives to create a supportive and open environment for her children. “We’re a support network for each other,” she explained. “We encourage each other to talk about our feelings, but the main thing is telling them we’re going to get through it and be fine.”
Her words highlight a parenting philosophy rooted in empathy and communication — something her fans have long admired about her candid personality.
A Marriage That Began with Vegas Magic
Lily Allen and David Harbour’s love story began in 2019 after they met through the celebrity dating app Raya. Their chemistry was instant, and the pair made several public appearances before tying the knot in September 2020 during the height of the pandemic.
Their Las Vegas wedding was anything but traditional — officiated by an Elvis Presley impersonator, it perfectly reflected the couple’s playful spirit. Allen’s daughters, Ethel and Marnie, were also present at the ceremony, making the event a truly blended family celebration.
In the months following their marriage, the couple appeared inseparable. They often shared moments of domestic bliss on social media — from cooking together to supporting each other’s creative endeavors. Harbour frequently spoke about his admiration for Allen’s artistry, while Allen expressed pride in Harbour’s success as Chief Hopper in Stranger Things.
However, as Allen’s career in the U.K. picked up momentum — with her ventures in theater, music, and podcasting — and Harbour’s filming schedule remained demanding in the U.S., the distance reportedly took a toll.
By January 2025, multiple outlets had confirmed their separation, with insiders citing that “her marriage had been crumbling.” Though neither Allen nor Harbour has publicly shared the exact reasons behind their split, their mutual respect for one another appears intact.
Life After the Split
Since the breakup, Lily Allen has focused on her children, career, and personal growth. Her candid approach to life after heartbreak continues to resonate with fans who admire her ability to blend humor with vulnerability.
The singer has been vocal about mental health and motherhood challenges, using her platform to encourage open conversations about topics that are often stigmatized. Her BBC podcast Miss Me? has become a safe space for honest discussions, often featuring stories from her own life experiences.
Meanwhile, David Harbour has continued his acting journey, working on upcoming film and television projects. Although it remains uncertain how active he will be in Ethel and Marnie’s lives, Allen’s comments suggest that any future involvement will depend largely on Harbour himself.
Despite the uncertainty, Allen seems to be in a place of peace and acceptance. Her focus now lies on co-parenting, nurturing her daughters’ well-being, and continuing her creative pursuits.
A Message of Strength and Self-Awareness
Lily Allen’s story isn’t just about celebrity relationships — it’s about resilience, motherhood, and personal evolution. Her willingness to speak openly about love, loss, and growth has made her one of the most relatable voices in modern pop culture.
As she navigates this new chapter, Allen remains an inspiring figure for those facing change — proving that endings can also mark powerful new beginnings.