Rod Stewart has firmly dismissed recent rumors suggesting turmoil in his 17-year marriage to Penny Lancaster, following reports claiming he had resisted relocating back to the UK with her. Earlier this week, the Daily Mail alleged that the couple was embroiled in a dispute over selling their expansive 28,000 sq ft mansion in Beverly Hills.
The “Forever Young” singer originally bought the luxurious property, boasting nine bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, and a football pitch, in 1991 for $12 million, and it is now valued at around $70 million. At 79, Stewart reportedly assured Lancaster, 53, that they would permanently move to their 10-bedroom, Grade II-listed countryside estate in Essex. However, on Thursday (29 August), Stewart took to Instagram to clarify the situation and debunk the speculations.
“There’s absolutely no tension between Penny and me, and we’re fully aligned on where we want to live. In fact, it’s quite the opposite,” he stated.
He further explained, “We permanently moved back to our beloved Britain a year ago, but we’re fortunate enough to own homes in several countries, which we cherish visiting.”
He added, “Initially, we considered selling our LA house, but after spending an incredible summer there with family and friends during my Vegas residency, we realized it made sense to keep it.”
Emphasizing the strength of their relationship, Stewart wrote, “Penny and I are more in love than ever after 27 amazing years together. Trust me, there’s no discord in our marriage.” He signed off the post as “Rod, a very lucky man.”
Stewart and Lancaster began their relationship in 1999, when she was 28 and he was 54. By then, Stewart had been married twice and had six children with four different women. They eventually tied the knot and have two sons together.
While Stewart often spends time in the U.S., Lancaster’s career, including her appearances on Loose Women and her role as a special constable with the City of London Police, keeps her in the UK. Earlier this year, Lancaster revealed to The Times that Stewart, who had never stayed with a partner long enough to witness them experience menopause, was “shocked” when she displayed symptoms, including throwing plates in frustration. He quickly supported her in seeking medical help, emphasizing his commitment to her well-being.