Earl Spencer, brother of the late Princess Diana, has unveiled his new romance with Dr Cat Jarman, a distinguished archaeologist and the recipient of the Nordic Person of the Year award. The 60-year-old aristocrat announced his relationship with Professor Jarman, whom he describes as a “brilliant archaeologist,” following his divorce from his third wife, Karen, earlier this year.
The connection between Earl Spencer and Dr Cat Jarman blossomed when they met on Spencer’s family estate in 2021 while she was conducting research for a Channel 4 documentary on an ancient Roman villa. Despite not yet discovering the villa, the couple’s shared passion for archaeology led to the development of a public relationship.
In an interview with ITV’s Good Morning Britain, Earl Spencer shared, “Cat Jarman, who is my partner now actually. She’s a brilliant archaeologist.” The pair’s professional collaboration extends beyond their personal relationship, as they co-host a history podcast with Rev Richard Coles and have co-authored a trivia book together.
Dr Cat Jarman, aged 42, was honoured as the Nordic Person of the Year in May for her significant contributions to the field of archaeology. Born in Norway and educated in the UK, she holds a doctorate in Viking Age archaeology from the University of Bristol. Dr Jarman’s expertise has been showcased on BBC 2’s Digging Up Britain, and she currently serves as the editor of British Archaeology magazine, in addition to authoring two books.
Recently, it was reported that Dr Jarman has initiated legal proceedings against Earl Spencer’s ex-wife. Earl Spencer’s divorce from Karen was finalised earlier this year, marking the end of their 13-year marriage. The couple shares a 12-year-old daughter, Charlotte Diana, while Spencer has children from previous marriages as well.
Earl Spencer’s new relationship with Dr Cat Jarman signifies a deep connection forged through their shared passion for archaeology and history. The couple’s collaboration in academia and public engagement further solidifies their bond, as they navigate this new chapter together.