Duncan Preston, the iconic *Emmerdale* actor known for his portrayal of Doug Potts, has confirmed that he and his former co-star wife, 

Susan Penhaligon, have split for the second time. 

The news, which has taken fans by surprise, sheds light on a turbulent relationship that spans several decades, marked by reconciliation, 

separation, and eventually, another divorce.

Preston, who became a household name playing Laurel Thomas’ father Doug on *Emmerdale* from 2007 to 2020, 

revealed in an interview with *This Is Money* that he and Penhaligon had quietly ended their relationship in 2015. 

The couple, who originally married in 1986, first called it quits in 1992 after a few years of marriage. However, by 1997, the pair had reconciled and chose to give their relationship another chance, leaving fans hopeful about their renewed bond. Despite not remarrying, they shared a deep regret over their initial separation, and things seemed to be going well for a time.

Unfortunately, after a number of years together, the couple split for a second time in 2015, marking the end of their relationship for good. The news remained under wraps for several years until Duncan Preston, now living in Yorkshire, chose to open up about the split in his recent interview. 

“I sold the Highgate flat for a good profit and bought a place twice as big for half the price coming back up to Yorkshire in 2015 after Susie and I split up,” Duncan explained. “It’s in a lovely village and looks out over Ilkley Moor. It’s a 1950s detached property with four bedrooms and I rattle around in it, but I love it.” Duncan’s move to a picturesque location in Yorkshire marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one far removed from the hustle and bustle of London where he had lived previously.

The breakdown of Duncan and Susan’s relationship comes after several decades of ups and downs. In their younger years, the couple’s bond had appeared strong, though it was often tested by the pressures of their careers and differing personalities. Duncan, who is now 69, is best known for his work on *Emmerdale*, but Susan’s career also flourished in television. She starred in the ITV soap in 2006, playing Jean Hope, Bob Hope’s first wife. Though Susan and Duncan’s time together in the soap world was relatively brief, their personal connection remained deep.

Reflecting on their personalities, Susan once remarked that they were “like chalk and cheese,” acknowledging the contrasts between them. Duncan, she said, was “about as conventional as you get,” while Susan’s own personality was more independent and free-spirited. These differences may have played a role in the couple’s eventual separation, especially as the years wore on.

Duncan Preston’s romantic history is not limited to his relationship with Susan, as he shared another story from his earlier years. In the 1970s, Duncan was engaged to another woman, but the engagement ended, leaving him heartbroken. To cope with the pain, he made an impulsive decision to place £2,000—quite a substantial amount at the time—on a horse that was second favorite to win the Epsom Derby. Unfortunately, the horse came in third, and Duncan lost the money he had wagered. “It came third, so I got nothing,” he recalled, highlighting the unlucky streak he experienced in matters of the heart.

Although Duncan and Susan’s marriage is no longer a part of his life, it’s clear that their time together shaped his journey. As for Duncan, his new life in Yorkshire appears to be one of peace and contentment, surrounded by the scenic beauty of Ilkley Moor. The actor is currently focusing on his career, which has included various television roles, and enjoying his new home that offers space and comfort after years of upheaval.

While their personal lives have been far from easy, Duncan and Susan’s connection—both professionally and personally—remains a significant part of their story. As fans of *Emmerdale* continue to cherish Duncan’s legacy as Doug Potts, it’s clear that his career on the soap will always be remembered, regardless of his relationships off-screen.

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