Justin Trudeau has been at the center of Canadian politics for over a decade, serving as the 23rd prime minister since 2015 and leading the Liberal Party since 2013. However, his time in office took a sharp turn when Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland unexpectedly resigned in December 2024, triggering a political storm. By January 6, 2025, Trudeau followed suit, announcing his decision to step down as both prime minister and party leader.
But while his political career has seen plenty of twists and turns, so has his personal life.
His marriage to Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, once a public symbol of partnership and unity, has also come to an end. What led to their separation, and who exactly is Sophie? Here’s a closer look at their relationship, from its beginnings to its highly publicized split.
Who Is Justin Trudeau’s Wife?
Sophie Grégoire Trudeau was a well-recognized figure in the Canadian media world long before becoming Canada’s First Lady. However, after tying the knot with Trudeau, the former television host stepped away from her media career to focus on family life.
In recent years, Sophie has shifted her focus toward philanthropy and advocacy. She serves as the national ambassador for Plan Canada’s “Because I am a Girl” initiative and is the official spokesperson for The Shield of Athena, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence.
When Did Justin and Sophie Get Married?
Justin and Sophie exchanged vows on May 28, 2005, in a traditional Catholic ceremony at Sainte-Madeleine d’Outremont Church in Montreal. The Romanesque-style stone church, known for its stunning stained-glass windows, provided a breathtaking setting for their wedding day.
The groom opted for a light-colored suit, while Sophie looked radiant in an ecru dress adorned with lace motifs and a flowing veil. After the ceremony, they left in Pierre Trudeau’s iconic 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL roadster, a classic car that had been carefully restored and shipped in from British Columbia for the occasion.
The celebration continued at a luxurious hotel in Old Montreal, where nearly 200 guests gathered for an intimate reception. Following the festivities, the newlyweds set off on a month-long honeymoon.
How They Met as Kids
Their love story began long before they became one of Canada’s most recognized couples. As children, their paths first crossed when Sophie was a classmate of Justin’s youngest brother, Michel Trudeau.
Years later, in 2003, fate brought them together again when they co-hosted a fundraising event. At the time, Justin wasn’t looking for anything serious, but their connection was undeniable. A few months later, they finally went on their first date—starting with dinner at an Afghan restaurant, followed by a stop at a karaoke bar.
Their relationship deepened quickly, and on October 18, 2004—which would have been Pierre Trudeau’s 85th birthday—Justin proposed. The engagement took place after the couple visited the Trudeau family tomb in Saint-Rémi-de-Napierville, Quebec.
The Couple Has Three Children
Justin and his ex-wife Sophie Grégoire are parents to three children. Their eldest, Xavier, was born on October 18, 2007. Two years later, they welcomed their daughter, Ella-Grace, on February 5, 2009. Their youngest, Hadrien, joined the family on February 28, 2014, completing their trio of kids.
They Announced Their Separation in 2023
After more than two decades together and 18 years of marriage, Justin Trudeau and Sophie Grégoire announced their separation in August 2023.
In a joint statement shared on social media, they described the decision as one that came after “many meaningful and difficult conversations.” Shortly after, the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the news to PEOPLE, stating that the couple had “signed a legal separation agreement.”
“They have worked to ensure that all legal and ethical steps with regards to their decision to separate have been taken, and will continue to do so moving forward,” the statement read.
Despite the split, Sophie made it clear that their bond as a family remains strong.
“There’s still so much love and relationship and closeness in our family. Even though our relationship is transforming, it doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt.”
“It hurts so much. Why? Because I had to choose my authenticity over my attachment, and that can be called ‘heartbreak,’ although the heart never breaks.”
While they now live separately, co-parenting remains a priority. Photos on social media have shown the family still gathering for dinners and celebrations at Rideau Cottage, their official residence. They have also continued to spend vacations together, reinforcing their commitment to maintaining a strong family dynamic.
