The personal trainer, 39, has been dating the culinary whizz, 53, for two years and they now look set to tie the knot despite him previously vowing never to get married (pictured 2024)
James Martin’s girlfriend Kim Johnson has seemingly confirmed her engagement to the TV chef, following growing reports that he proposed over Christmas — despite previously insisting marriage was not for him.
The personal trainer, 39, has been dating the 53-year-old culinary star for two years, and the couple now appear set to tie the knot in a surprise twist that has caught fans off guard.
According to The Sun, Kim hinted at the engagement by sharing a photo of one of James’ latest dishes on Instagram, captioning it simply: “So proud of my fiancé.”
The Daily Mail has contacted representatives for James Martin for comment.
A Christmas Proposal — And a Lavish Gift
His engagement to Kim comes two years after James’ split from long-term girlfriend Louise Davies after 12 years together (pictured 2015)
Last month, reports claimed James popped the question during the festive period before presenting Kim with a £150,000 Land Rover — said to be an engagement gift.
Kim was previously married to businessman Arun Nayar, 61, tying the knot in July 2016, before divorcing the following year (pictured in 2015)
If confirmed, the proposal marks a dramatic U-turn for James, who previously made it clear he had no interest in ever getting married.
Arun began dating Kim in 2011, following his divorce from Elizabeth Hurley after four years of marriage (pictured with Liz in 2010)
Speaking to the Sunday People in 2019, he said:
“Marriage doesn’t interest me in the slightest. I’ve catered for so many weddings. I admire people who do it, but I’m quite happy. I don’t need to spend £60,000 on one day.”
How Their Romance Began
James and Kim’s relationship first came to light in April last year, when they were spotted shopping for jewellery at Tiffany & Co. in Mayfair.
Their romance appeared to deepen in October, when Kim reportedly moved into James’ country home in Hampshire.
The engagement news comes exactly two years after James’ split from long-term girlfriend Louise Davies, whom he dated for 12 years. The pair first met in 2011 on the set of Celebrity Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? and lived together at his Hampshire property.
A spokesperson confirmed in December 2023 that James and Louise had parted ways but remained on good terms.
Kim’s Past Marriage
Kim was previously married to businessman Arun Nayar, whom she wed in July 2016 after beginning a relationship in 2011 following his divorce from Elizabeth Hurley. The marriage was short-lived, and the couple divorced the following year.
A Turbulent Few Years
The engagement news follows a challenging period in James’ life. Last summer, the chef found himself at the centre of controversy after being accused of bullying and intimidating behaviour by crew members on his ITV food show.
Further reports emerged of a separate incident in 2018, prompting ITV to confirm they had raised concerns with the star.
James later issued a public apology, admitting he had “acted emotionally” amid personal turmoil, which he said included the death of his grandfather, a home invasion by masked burglars, and a shock cancer diagnosis.
ITV sources told the Mail that bosses would continue to take a “close interest” in any future productions involving the chef, whose affable on-screen persona has earned him a loyal fan base.
For now, however, all eyes remain on Kim’s telling Instagram caption — and whether wedding bells are finally on the horizon for a man who once swore he’d never walk down the aisle.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/