After your divorce is finalized, there are many "firsts" that you experience without your spouse. These include: your first birthday on your own, your first holiday season, possibly the first time you have to share your children on their birthdays, and inevitably, your first Valentine's Day. While you may feel alone, it may surprise you to know that the number of divorce filings spike each year around Valentine's Day.
May theories have been advanced as to why this holiday, characterized by hearts, cupid, roses, and other romantic symbols also coincides with marital break ups. Regardless of the reason, it is important to recognize that you are not alone and there are many others who are facing a similar situation. To share the "break up love" below are a list of celebrities who have broken up over the past year, who may be out looking for love this Valentine's Day Season. In no particular order:
- Taye Diggs & Idina Menzel: After ten years of marriage, the couple announced their separation in late 2013. Together they have one child and have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
- Ryan Seacrest & Julianne Hough: Hough is a talented actress, dancer, and singer while Seacrest is a media mogul. Conflicting schedules were cited as the main reason why their romance did not last.
- Captain & Tennille: After thirty-nine years of marriage, this couple filed for divorce in January of 2014. Together the couple recorded hits such as "Love Will Keep Us Together", "Muskrat Love" and "Do That to Me One More Time".
- Kris & Bruce Jenner: Americans were able to view the demise of their marriage on "Keeping up with the Kardashians". It is left to be seen how much of their separation – and dating life – will be featured on future episodes.
- Nigella Lawson & Charles Saatchi: Lawson, a celebrity chef, and Saatchi, a British businessman, had a tumultuous year at best. Allegations of domestic violence and drug abuse dominated the tabloids regarding this celebrity couples lifestyle. They also batted a very public trial, in which their lifestyle was fodder for the world to watch.
- George Clooney & Stacy Keibler: this beautiful couple called it quits in July of 2013. The surprising twist is that Keibler (allegedly) broke up with Clooney!