Costello spilts from his wife
BBC News, 2002-11-26

 

Tuesday, 26 November, 2002, 17:36 GMT

Costello splits from wife

Musician Elvis Costello has split from his wife, ex-Pogues singer Cait
O'Riordan, after 16 years of marriage.

The pair are believed to have simply drifted apart and went their separate
ways in September this year.

The couple met when Costello, now 47, was a producer of Irish folk rock
band The Pogues in the mid-80s, and O'Riordan was a member of the band.

They married in 1986, but O'Riordan, now 37, left the band shortly afterwards.

A statement issued on their behalf said: "It is regretfully announced that
the marriage of Elvis Costello and Cait O'Riordan has come to an end after
16 years.

"The parting, which took place in September, is amicable and it is hoped
that the privacy of the individuals will be respected."

Costello first came to fame in the punk era of the 1970s with the band the
Attractions, but set himself apart with thoughtful lyrics and musical
proficiency on tracks such as Oliver's Army and I Can't Stand Up For
Falling Down.

Long since a solo artist, he has become one of Britain's most important
songwriters.

He is constantly experimenting with musical styles, teaming up with Sir
Paul McCartney, songwriter Burt Bacharach and classical stars Anne-Sofie
Von Otter and the Brodsky Quartet.

He even managed a guest appearance in the second Austin Powers movie, with
Mike Myers, and a recent Simpsons episode.