After years of heartbreak, upheaval and playing what friends describe as “second fiddle,” Lisa Armstrong is said to be happier than ever — and those closest to her believe she has finally found a relationship where she comes first.

The former wife of Ant McPartlin, 49, has quietly fallen for actor Grant Kilburn, 34, with sources saying the new romance has restored her confidence, energy and joy after years of emotional strain.“Treated like a princess”

Friends reveal that Lisa is being “treated like a princess” by Grant, who is said to adore her and make her feel truly valued — a sharp contrast to previous relationships where she often felt overlooked.

“This time, she’s number one,” a source said. “She’s taking things slowly because she doesn’t want to be hurt again — but he puts her first, constantly reminds her how special she is, and supports everything she does.”

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Ant McPartlin’s ex-wife Lisa Armstrong is said to be ‘happier than ever’ with her new actor boyfriend, who treats her like a ‘princess’ after she spent years playing ‘second fiddle’ in past relationships

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The Daily Mail revealed in December that the make-up artist, 49, has fallen head over heels for actor Grant Kilburn, 34, with the pair quietly dating in recent weeks

Those close to Lisa say the change is visible. She is described as glowing, confident and finally enjoying a sense of peace after a long period of personal challenges.

How they met

The pair were introduced through mutual friends Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton after Lisa attended a performance of 2:22 A Ghost Story at the Theatre Royal in Brighton last October — a production in which Grant stars.

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They met after Lisa – who heads the team that puts the glitz and glamour into Strictly Come Dancing – went along to watch Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton perform together in a play at the Theatre Royal in Brighton in early October

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A source told The Mirror: ‘She’s been so used to being in relationships where she played second fiddle. This time, she’s number one. She’s taking it slow, she doesn’t want to get hurt again – but she’s being treated like a princess’

What began as a friendly introduction quickly turned into something more, with insiders saying the connection was instant. Despite their 15-year age gap, the couple are said to be perfectly matched, sharing similar values and life experiences.

Healing after heartbreak

Lisa’s personal life has not been easy in recent years. Following her highly publicised split from Ant McPartlin in 2018 after 11 years of marriage, she endured further heartbreak, including the end of her relationship with electrician James Green in 2023 and a devastating fire at her £5 million Chiswick home the same year.

Yet through it all, Lisa’s career has continued to thrive. As head of makeup on Strictly Come Dancing, she remains one of the most respected figures behind the scenes of British television.

Friends now say this new relationship feels different — calmer, healthier, and built on mutual respect rather than chaos.

A man who understands struggle

Grant Kilburn’s life story has also shaped the bond. At just 23, the actor suffered a life-changing stroke caused by blood clots in his brain — an ordeal that left him battling anxiety and depression for years.

Since then, he has become an advocate for mental health awareness and stroke recovery, using his experiences to support others. Those close to the couple say this shared understanding of adversity has deepened their connection.

A new chapter

While Lisa and Grant are keeping their relationship low-key, those around them say it represents a powerful turning point — not just romantically, but emotionally.

After decades in the public eye, personal loss, and years spent putting others first, Lisa Armstrong is finally choosing herself.

And this time, friends say, she isn’t settling for second place — she’s exactly where she belongs.