Mandy Hendry is known primarily as the ex-wife of Stephen Hendry, a Scottish former professional snooker player who is regarded as one of the greatest in the sport. Their relationship, publicized for years, has been part of a broader narrative that blends sports fame with personal lives. While Mandy Hendry’s identity is often linked to her ex-husband, she has led a significant life in her own right, most notably as a former showjumper and a mother. In this article, we delve into her background, her life before and after her marriage to Stephen, and her place in the public eye.

Early Life and Career

Mandy Hendry, born in the 1970s, came into the limelight through her relationship with Stephen Hendry. Though she is better known for being married to one of snooker’s most iconic figures, Mandy has her own accomplishments. Before stepping into the public scene as part of the Hendry family, Mandy was a talented showjumper, competing in various events. 

Her early career and passion for horses highlight her independence and commitment to her interests. Her life was already notable in certain circles before becoming associated with Stephen, showing that her identity was not solely dependent on her marriage. However, it was her marriage to the snooker legend in 1995 that placed her under intense public scrutiny​.

Marriage to Stephen Hendry

Mandy and Stephen Hendry’s relationship, which lasted for nearly two decades, was marked by both personal and public challenges. The couple had two sons, Blaine, born in 1996, and Carter, born in 2004​. Their marriage, which seemed stable for many years, was affected by the pressures of Stephen’s high-profile snooker career. 

As a result, their relationship became a topic of interest to the media. Despite the challenges that came with being married to a global sports icon, Mandy and Stephen continued their family life while managing the intense media attention. Stephen’s career peaks, such as his record seven World Snooker Championships, kept the couple in the public eye. However, as time went on, their relationship began to face significant strain​.

Divorce and Life After Stephen Hendry

In 2014, after years of speculation about their relationship, Mandy and Stephen Hendry separated. The divorce marked the end of an era, not just in their personal lives but also in the public’s interest in their family. Following the separation, Mandy largely stayed out of the limelight, preferring to lead a quieter life away from the media frenzy. Her life after the divorce involved focusing on her family and her personal well-being. Though she was not frequently in the media, her role as a mother remained central. Her two sons, Blaine and Carter, have remained a key part of her life, and she has shared her commitment to being a dedicated parent, even as they grew older​.

Mandy’s Role in the Public Eye

Despite stepping back from the public eye, Mandy Hendry’s name continued to surface, especially during her ex-husband’s career milestones. Stephen Hendry’s return to professional snooker after a period of retirement brought a renewed interest in the family, with fans and media often revisiting their past. However, Mandy’s identity is now more defined by her independence than her association with Stephen. 

Her legacy is partly shaped by her role as a mother, her involvement in the equestrian world, and her ability to maintain privacy in a world that often sought to intrude. In recent years, Mandy has kept a relatively low profile, not engaging with social media or seeking public attention. However, there are sporadic reports about her life, particularly relating to her children and her life after the divorce​.

Life After Divorce

After the divorce, Mandy Hendry chose to maintain a relatively low profile. She was largely away from the public eye, focusing on her children and adjusting to her life without Stephen. While Stephen continued to enjoy a relationship with Lauren Thundow, Mandy seemed to concentrate on her family and personal well-being. Despite the public nature of the divorce and the media scrutiny that followed, Mandy’s life after the separation has been relatively private. She was often seen spending time with her children, showing a determination to move forward despite the turmoil of her past relationship.

Public Perception and Controversy

The public’s view of Mandy Hendry was complicated by the circumstances of her divorce. Many fans of Stephen Hendry felt sympathetic toward Mandy, who had been married to the snooker legend for almost 20 years, only to see her husband leave her for a younger woman. This situation stirred a great deal of discussion in the media, especially with the contrast in the ages and life stages of Stephen and Lauren, which some saw as a betrayal of Mandy​. 

Moreover, Stephen’s decision to leave his family after nearly two decades of marriage, particularly for someone much younger, created a sense of bitterness among fans. However, over time, Mandy managed to keep her personal life relatively quiet, focusing on her family and adjusting to life after the highly publicized breakup.

FAQs

Who is Mandy Hendry? 

Mandy Hendry, formerly known as Amanda Tart, is best known for being the ex-wife of Stephen Hendry, the legendary Scottish snooker champion. They were married for nearly 20 years, from 1995 to 2014. They share two children, Blaine (born 1996) and Carter (born 2004).

How did Mandy Hendry and Stephen Hendry meet? 

Stephen and Mandy met at a Pontins holiday camp when Stephen was just 16 years old. Their connection eventually led to their marriage in 1995​.

What led to Mandy Hendry’s divorce from Stephen Hendry? 

The couple divorced in 2014 after 19 years of marriage. Stephen later revealed in his autobiography that the relationship had become strained, and he had developed feelings for his now-partner, Lauren Thundow. The divorce marked the end of a significant chapter in both their lives​.

What has Mandy Hendry done since her divorce from Stephen Hendry? 

Post-divorce, Mandy has maintained a relatively private life. She sold their former home in Auchterarder for around £875,000 in 2021, which was part of her divorce settlement​.

Does Mandy Hendry have any involvement in Stephen Hendry’s snooker career? 

While Mandy was not directly involved in Stephen’s professional career, she was part of his personal life during his peak years in snooker, including when he achieved remarkable milestones, such as his record-breaking World Snooker Championships​

In Summary

Mandy Hendry’s life story is one of resilience, independence, and privacy. While her marriage to snooker legend Stephen Hendry brought her into the limelight, her legacy extends beyond her relationship with him. From her early years as a showjumper to her focus on raising her children, Mandy has carved out a meaningful life outside of the public spotlight. Although she may no longer be a constant figure in the media, her story reflects the strength of a woman who navigated personal and professional challenges with grace.

To read more, Click Here .