Janet Street-Porter, the iconic broadcaster and Loose Women star, has done the unthinkable — tying the knot for the fifth time with her long-time partner, Peter Spanton, after 27 years together. The 79-year-old shared the surprising news on Loose Women earlier this month, joking: “I finally did it. I saved the best til last.”
The intimate ceremony in Great Yarmouth on January 31 was attended by just four guests — including their beloved dog, Badger — keeping the moment private despite Janet’s decades-long fame. Fans and co-stars alike were stunned, with Coleen Nolan gushing, “So happy for you both,” and Brenda Edwards admitting she was “so excited to hear the news.”
Janet reflected on her nerves before the wedding: “I got myself in a complete state the day before. I was shaking. I was so nervous. It’s embarrassing, but I suppose that’s part of love.”
A Journey Through Love: Janet’s Previous Marriages
Before Peter, Janet experienced a turbulent romantic past with four prior marriages, each unique in its story.
- David Sorkin – Janet’s 1997 Las Vegas marriage to the then 27-year-old journalist ended after 14 months. She described it as a “big mistake” and recalled a memorable argument where “he squirted her with salad cream.”
- Frank Cvitanovich – The Canadian filmmaker and Emmy-winning documentarian married Janet in 1979. Their union lasted just two years, affected by grief and personal tragedy. Janet recalled: “Frank couldn’t bear to be near children after his son’s death. That marriage fizzled out.”
- Tony Elliott – Time Out founder Tony Elliott and Janet had a whirlwind romance and married in 1974. Their marriage ended in 1977, marked by professional tension and Janet’s admitted infidelities.
- Tim Street-Porter – Janet’s first husband, whom she married at 19, remained a significant figure in her life despite their eventual divorce after an affair. Janet said she kept his surname professionally: “It had been my first by-line and it was a hell of a lot better than (née) Bull.”
Throughout her life, Janet has been candid about her experiences with love, regrets, and the courage it took to find happiness. Her story culminates now in a serene, enduring partnership with Peter — a testament that love can truly be worth the wait.
