Celeste Barber and Api Robin Split After 20 Years; Family Says Privacy Is Top Priority
Api Robin announced on Feb. 13, 2026 (ET) that he and comedian Celeste Barber have decided to separate after two decades together. In a message titled "heavy hearts, " Robin said the decision followed months of reflection, that "there is still love and respect between us, " and that the family will prioritise the wellbeing of their children as they navigate the change. Barber has not publicly addressed the split.
The announcement and the family focus
In the statement shared on social channels, Api Robin, 52, said, "The past few months have been incredibly challenging and deeply heartbreaking for us both. After much reflection, the decision has been made to separate. " He added, "There is still love and respect between us, but sadly, we are at capacity and have come to recognise we may want different things. "
Robin noted that the couple’s primary concern remains their sons Lou, 14, and Buddy, 11, and that he also has daughters Kyrah and Sahra from a previous relationship. The post concluded with a request for space: "We kindly ask for privacy and understanding as we navigate this. " Friends and family publicly offered support in the wake of the announcement, and public expressions of sympathy have been widespread.
Two decades together in public view
Barber and Robin’s relationship spanned roughly 20 years, with the pair dating for nearly a decade before marrying in 2013. Over that time Barber often referred to Robin affectionately in public and on social media, frequently calling him her "hot husband. " Their partnership played out in both candid personal moments and in the comedian’s professional material.
Barber has woven aspects of her marriage into her comedy. In one of her standup projects, she joked about Robin’s ease in social settings: "My husband is so good in social situations, which really f--ks me off, " she quipped, contrasting his charm with her own discomfort. She also shared images of the pair travelling together last November, documenting sightseeing and quiet moments on tour. On their 12th wedding anniversary she posted what she described as a "love letter, " reflecting the couple’s long history and the intimacy of their Bali wedding.
Despite the breakup announcement, Barber has yet to issue a public statement about the separation. Her career in comedy, publishing and acting has kept her a visible figure; the split has prompted a mix of condolences and commentary from fans and colleagues.
What comes next
Both Robin and Barber have signalled a desire to shield their children from public scrutiny. With the family asking for privacy, details about logistics and future arrangements are expected to remain private for now. The couple’s request suggests a deliberate effort to limit media coverage and social speculation as they work through the transition.
Breakups after long partnerships often prompt reflection from the public on the couple’s shared history and individual careers. For now, the central message from the family is clear: their focus is on their children and on handling the separation with care and respect.
