**Charles Spencer Marks New Beginnings After Finalising His Divorce**
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Charles Spencer, the 9th Earl Spencer, has recently embraced a new chapter in his life following the conclusion of his marriage to Countess Karen Spencer. The couple’s separation, which was announced in June 2024 after nearly 13 years together, was officially finalised in late December 2025. Now, less than four months later, Spencer is openly celebrating both his new relationship and a milestone in his personal journey.
On April 18, 2026, Spencer shared glimpses of a trip to Oslo, Norway, alongside his girlfriend, Dr. Cat Jarman, through a series of photos posted on Instagram. The trip not only marked a celebration of their nearly two-year relationship, but it also coincided with Spencer’s first anniversary of sobriety. He expressed his happiness in a heartfelt caption, stating, “Never felt better,” and revealing that Jarman had been advising on a new Viking ship museum in her hometown.
The picturesque trip included memorable moments at Vigeland Sculpture Park, where Spencer uploaded a joyful selfie of the pair. The Earl, who is also a historian and author, reflected on his new relationship positively, acknowledging Jarman’s support in his journey towards sobriety. Their connection appears to have grown significantly over the course of the two years since they first met at an archaeological dig at Althorp House in 2021.
Jarman, who is well-versed in Viking history as an archaeologist, has co-hosted a historical podcast titled “The Rabbit Hole Detectives” alongside Spencer and Rev. Richard Coles since its launch in 2023. The podcast has garnered an audience and further solidified their partnership, both in personal and professional realms.
The narrative of Spencer’s recent life has not been without its challenges. Following his announcement of the divorce from Countess Karen Spencer, details emerged regarding a legal dispute involving Jarman and Karen. In December 2024, Jarman initiated litigation against the Countess over alleged misuse of private information, claiming that Karen had publicly shared her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis without consent. This situation heightened tensions surrounding their separation and Jarman’s relationship with Spencer.
In the wake of these events, Countess Karen Spencer defended her actions, alleging that Charles had conveyed his desire for a divorce via text message and accusing both him and Jarman of bullying her. Court documents indicated that Karen believed she had reason to discuss Jarman’s medical condition, given her shock over the revelations of an alleged affair between her ex-husband and Jarman.
Despite the tumultuous backdrop of their separation, it appears that both Spencer and Jarman have chosen to move forward positively. Before confirming their divorce, the couple attended events together, showcasing a united front. Since their finalisation of the split in December, ongoing developments in their respective lives have received media scrutiny, illustrating the complex dynamics often present in the lives of high-profile individuals.
The divorce settlement was confirmed by a spokesperson for Karen Spencer, putting an end to the court proceedings initiated by Jarman. The Countess retains her title but will lose it should she remarry in the future. The couple’s 13-year marriage at Althorp House included the birth of their daughter, Charlotte Diana, named in honour of Spencer’s late sister, Princess Diana.
With his focus now clearly on his future, Charles Spencer’s reflections on his life seem marked by a sense of relief and renewed purpose. As he celebrates his anniversaries in Oslo, his ongoing relationship with Dr. Jarman and commitment to sobriety signal a hopeful new beginning for the Earl. As he navigates these changes, Spencer’s story resonates with themes of resilience and transformation in the face of personal challenges.