BBC Star Anna Maxwell Martin Reveals Struggles After Ex-Husband’s Sudden Death

BBC actress Anna Maxwell Martin has opened up about her emotional and financial struggles following the sudden death of her ex-husband, Roger Michell, in 2021, told the Express. The Motherland and Line of Duty star, 47, shared that despite their divorce a year before his passing, she and Michell remained on good terms, co-parenting their two teenage children.

In a candid interview on BBC Woman’s Hour, Anna reflected on the challenges she faced, both emotionally and practically, after Michell’s unexpected death at age 65. “My husband died three years ago, and things were really difficult in every aspect of our lives,” she said, according to GB News. Among the biggest struggles, Anna revealed, was coping with what she called “financial terror.” She explained, “There’s lots of stuff that comes with grief, and one of those was financial terror. Then there are real practicalities around your children, and their mental health and supporting them, which is your priority.”

Anna shared that the grief was a familiar journey, as she had previously faced a significant loss in her twenties. “Looking back, I was probably in a state of shock and fear—a heightened state—for a long time until very recently,” she said. Despite the challenges, she found strength in her determination to support her children through their own grief. “I’ve trod this road of grief and sudden traumatic death before… it was horrible to have to see my children walk that road. But I’m pretty gritty and pretty strong… I thought, ‘I’ve just got to keep the motor chugging on.’”

In addition to reflecting on her experiences with grief, Anna discussed the importance of strong friendships and community, especially as she navigates life in her forties. “I also think there’s something about being a woman in your 40s… if you’re lucky enough, you will have succeeded in having the best friends and best people around you,” she said. Emphasizing the value of her support network, she added, “I had exceptional friends and an exceptional support network.”

Anna’s openness offers a rare insight into the personal challenges of coping with sudden loss while managing the well-being of her children. Her resilience shines through as she shares how she navigated not only the grief but also the practicalities of raising her children alone. As she continues to work through the journey of grief, her story serves as a reminder of the power of resilience, friendship, and self-reliance.