Kristina Rihanoff has been seen in public for the first time since her split from husband Ben Cohen, appearing solemn as she left her yoga studio in Northamptonshire. The former Strictly Come Dancing star, 47, was spotted dressed in black, talking on her phone with sunglasses perched atop her head, just hours after news of the separation surfaced.
The couple’s split comes amid reports of mounting financial strain, with a reported £1 million debt placing significant pressure on their relationship. Though financial difficulties were cited as the final straw, tensions had reportedly been simmering for years.
Rihanoff and Cohen first met on the eleventh series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2013, where they were dance partners. Their closeness on the show eventually led to Cohen’s split from his ex-wife, Abby, in 2014, paving the way for his relationship with Rihanoff. However, the circumstances surrounding their romance led to significant public scrutiny, particularly from Abby, who at the time made remarks about Kristina that deeply affected her.
According to sources close to Rihanoff, being labeled as “the other woman” was a painful experience. “Her relationship with Ben didn’t begin until after his marriage ended, but the public criticism, especially from Abby, was difficult for her to endure,” a friend shared. Although Abby later apologized for her remarks, the controversy left a lasting impact on Rihanoff.
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