Who is Christopher Dare?
Christopher Dare is widely recognized not for his public career but for his private life—specifically, his long-term marriage to iconic British journalist and broadcaster Angela Rippon. Born in the United Kingdom, Dare led a relatively private life, working as an engineer while his wife became a household name through her appearances on BBC and other news platforms.
Though Christopher Dare himself never sought the limelight, his relationship with Rippon made him a subject of curiosity among fans and media, especially during their two-decade-long marriage and eventual divorce. Unlike many who get thrust into public attention by association, Dare maintained a low profile both during and after their relationship.
Early Life and Background
Very little is publicly documented about Christopher Dare’s early years. What is known is that he was based in the UK during his formative and professional years. With a career in engineering, Dare represented a stable, grounded contrast to the glamorous and highly visible life of Angela Rippon.
He first met Angela Rippon at a YMCA dance event when she was just 17. At the time, Rippon was starting her broadcasting journey, while Dare was establishing himself in engineering. Their courtship led to marriage in 1967, when Rippon was 22 years old.
Christopher Dare and Angela Rippon: A Significant Partnership
One of the most talked-about aspects of Christopher Dare’s life is his marriage to Angela Rippon. The couple tied the knot in 1967 and shared over two decades together. During this time, Rippon was climbing the ranks in British journalism, becoming the first regular female news anchor on BBC in 1975. The couple shared a quiet and domestic life away from the cameras, often residing in a 17th-century cottage in Devon.
Despite her fame, Angela Rippon often credited Dare as being her rock—someone who grounded her emotionally and supported her career without ever trying to overshadow it. Their marriage was largely devoid of scandal and maintained an air of traditional British discretion.
However, like many long-standing relationships, theirs came to a peaceful end. The couple divorced in 1989 after 22 years of marriage. Rippon described the separation as “not acrimonious” but admitted it was stressful. The two remained on amicable terms even after the divorce, and continued to maintain communication.
Is Christopher Dare Still Alive?
As of the most recent available information, Christopher Dare is still alive. He currently resides in Spain, where he lives with his long-time partner Judy. Angela Rippon herself confirmed in interviews that she remains in contact with Dare, and even receives emails and cards from the couple. Judy has also communicated with Rippon on occasion, updating her about life events and home renovations.
There has been some confusion online due to obituaries for individuals with the same or similar names—such as Christopher Norman Dare (a cello teacher) and John Christopher Dare (a former housemaster). However, these individuals are not the same as Angela Rippon’s former husband.
Christopher Dare Obituary: Clearing the Misconceptions
There is no confirmed obituary for the Christopher Dare associated with Angela Rippon. The presence of several obituaries under the same name online has led to some mistaken identities. These include:
-
Christopher Norman Dare: A cellist and music teacher whose obituary was featured in the West Briton.
-
John Christopher Dare: A former housemaster noted by Old Cholmeleians.
Both individuals had careers in education and the arts and are unrelated to the engineer Christopher Dare once married to Angela Rippon. As of now, there is no verifiable evidence that Angela Rippon’s ex-husband has passed away.
Christopher Dare’s Career
Unlike his high-profile former spouse, Christopher Dare worked behind the scenes in a practical and technical role. His profession as an engineer provided him with a stable and respected career path. Unfortunately, due to his low public profile, there are no detailed records or media interviews that document his projects, employers, or professional milestones.
What is evident, however, is that he chose to remain outside the spotlight. His dedication to privacy extended beyond his divorce and continues in his current life in Spain. His professional life was characterized by diligence and discretion, attributes that complemented Rippon’s very public career in broadcasting.
Life After Angela Rippon
After their divorce in 1989, Christopher Dare made a conscious decision to lead a life far away from public scrutiny. He relocated to Spain with his partner, Judy. Despite the change in geography, Dare’s sense of privacy remained intact. Rippon has noted that Judy occasionally communicates updates to her, often about mundane but heartfelt things like redecorating the house.
This continued cordiality post-divorce highlights the emotional maturity of both parties. It also demonstrates that Dare was not a celebrity-seeker, but a man content with a modest, fulfilling life away from cameras and headlines.
Angela Rippon’s Reflections on Christopher Dare
Angela Rippon has often spoken about her ex-husband in warm tones, despite their separation. In interviews, she has emphasized that their divorce was not filled with animosity, and that Dare remained an important part of her past. Rippon, who never remarried, continues to show a graceful and dignified acknowledgment of their shared years.
This mutual respect has kept public curiosity alive, even decades after their divorce, especially as Rippon maintains a high profile through her continued television work—including recent appearances on shows like Strictly Come Dancing.
Final Thoughts on Christopher Dare
Christopher Dare may not have lived his life in the public eye, but he remains a figure of interest because of his quiet dignity, strong marriage history, and role in supporting Angela Rippon during the foundational years of her career. His current life in Spain signifies a peaceful retirement, shared with a new partner, and marked by ongoing goodwill with his former spouse.
His story is a reflection of countless individuals whose lives intersect briefly with fame, yet choose to remain rooted in normalcy and integrity. Dare represents the many who support from the sidelines, without craving recognition or spotlight.
Mating Press – Honoring Quiet Legacies
At Mating Press, we value stories of individuals like Christopher Dare—people who may not make headlines daily, but whose lives have deeply touched others. Whether through quiet support, personal dignity, or unwavering loyalty, their contributions matter.
