Celeste Barber and Api Robin Split After 20 Years; He Requests Privacy
Australian comedian Celeste Barber and her longtime partner Api Robin have separated after two decades together, Api announced on Feb. 13, 2026 (ET). titled “heavy hearts, ” he said the pair still share love and respect but have reached a point where they want different things. The separation comes nearly 13 years after their wedding and follows a high-profile life lived largely in public view.
Api Robin’s statement: ‘There is still love and respect between us’
In his social media message, Api described the past few months as “incredibly challenging and deeply heartbreaking for us both. ” He wrote that after much reflection they have made the decision to separate and emphasised that their priority remains their children. “There is still love and respect between us, but sadly, we are at capacity and have come to recognise we may want different things, ” he said. He also noted the couple will put the wellbeing of their sons Lou, 14, and Buddy, 11, first as they navigate the change. Api closed by asking for privacy and understanding during this period.
The announcement also referenced Api’s daughters from a previous relationship, indicating the wider family is being considered in the transition. In asking for privacy, Api signalled this will be handled away from the public eye as much as possible.
Public life, private moments: highlights from their relationship
Barber and Api’s relationship had long been part of her public persona; she frequently referred to him playfully as her “hot husband” and wove anecdotes about him into her comedy. In her stand-up material she has teased about his social skills, quipping about his ability to be chatty with strangers while being reserved at home. Those jokes were delivered in a familiar stage voice that blended affection and frustration.
The couple dated for nearly a decade before marrying in 2013. Over the years Barber shared glimpses of their life together—vacation snaps, candid moments and anniversary tributes that underscored a long partnership. Last November they posted photos from a New York trip that showed the pair sightseeing, holding hands on transit and dining with friends. Six months earlier Barber dedicated what she called “a love letter” to Api on their 12th wedding anniversary, writing, “WOW. This is fun. I love you, ” and sharing photos from their intimate wedding in Bali.
Barber has not publicly commented on the separation since Api’s announcement. The couple’s decision to part was framed as mutual and thoughtful rather than abrupt, reflecting years of shared life and parenting.
What comes next
With the couple requesting privacy, immediate public details about next steps are limited. Api’s statement highlighted a commitment to their children’s wellbeing, suggesting co-parenting arrangements and family care will be central in the months ahead. For fans and followers, the separation marks the end of a long chapter for a pair who were frequently visible in each other’s social feeds and public appearances.
As the family moves forward, both privacy and sensitivity are being sought. The announcement closed on a note of respect, and supporters have already begun expressing sympathy for the family as they adjust to life apart.
