Ant McPartlin is reportedly prepared to pay his wife Lisa Armstrong £31 million in a divorce settlement, in order to avoid a messy court battle.
The 42-year-old television presenter – who is known for being one half of presenting duo Ant and Dec – revealed over the weekend that he would be divorcing from his wife of 11 years after a turbulent year in which Ant was admitted to rehab after becoming reliant on alcohol and drugs following a botched knee operation.
And now, it has been claimed that in order to keep the peace between the pair, Ant is willing to part with half his fortune in what would mark the biggest divorce settlement in the UK involving a celebrity.
A source said: "It’s a huge amount but he wants Lisa to be financially and emotionally supported. He wants things to be amicable and doesn’t want a drawn out court battle with Lisa.
"He still views her as a best friend and wants them both to be able to walk away from the marriage positively. He is happy to give Lisa 50 per cent in the divorce if that is what is agreed by their lawyers."
Sources close to Lisa, however, have insisted she isn’t motivated by money, and that the 41-year-old beauty was "shocked" by Ant’s offer.
They told The Sun newspaper: "She is not motivated by money and doesn’t want a fight. But this was a real shock to her so she’s not going to rush things either."
It comes after Ant’s representative revealed he would be splitting from the ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ make-up artist – whom he has known for 23 years – after having tied the knot in 2006.
His rep said: "In response to the recent speculation in the media, Ant is very sad to announce that, after 11 years, he is ending his marriage to Lisa McPartlin.
"Ant asks for privacy at this difficult time, for both himself, Lisa and their immediate families.
"No further statement will be made."
Ant McPartlin prepared to give estranged wife half his fortune in divorce settlement
