Updated: June 7, 2026
The recent wedding of Harriet Sperling to Peter Phillips, son of Princess Anne, has drawn worldwide attention to the blended royal family they are creating. As the spotlight shines on their joyful new chapter, many are naturally curious about Harriet’s past—specifically her ex-husband, Antonio St John Sperling. This article dives into the known details with clarity and respect, exploring the story behind one of the more private figures connected to this high-profile romance.
Table of Contents
Who Is Harriet Sperling Ex Husband?
Antonio St John Sperling, often referred to as Dino in some reports, is a fitness instructor and former director of a CrossFit-related company. Born around 1981, he maintains a notably low public profile compared to his ex-wife’s new life in the royal spotlight. Harriet (née Sanders) and Antonio were married for a relatively short period, welcoming their daughter Georgina (born circa 2012) before parting ways when she was still a toddler.
Their relationship appears to have been grounded in everyday life rather than public drama. Harriet has spoken openly in Christian publications about the challenges of single motherhood, describing a time of scarce resources but profound love and resilience. She has credited her faith and dedication to her daughter for helping her navigate those early years.
Key facts about Antonio St John Sperling:
- Worked as a fitness professional with involvement in CrossFit businesses in the early 2010s.
- Prefers privacy; little is known about his current personal or professional life.
- Father to Georgina Sperling, who has gracefully stepped into her new blended family role alongside Peter Phillips’ daughters, Savannah and Isla.
- Reports suggest family complexities on his side, including a distant relationship with his own father, but these remain unverified personal matters.
The Marriage and Divorce: A Private Chapter
Harriet and Antonio’s union was not a long one. According to family comments reported in the press, the marriage lasted only a few years before ending amicably enough for co-parenting. Harriet has reflected publicly on the strength required as a single mother, emphasizing selfless love and the unique bond formed through adversity.
Unlike many celebrity divorces, this one stayed largely out of the headlines until Harriet’s relationship with Peter Phillips brought renewed interest. Peter himself divorced his first wife, Autumn Kelly, in 2021 after 12 years of marriage and two daughters. Both Harriet and Peter bring experience, maturity, and a shared commitment to family into their 2026 union.
Life After Divorce: Harriet’s Journey to Happiness
Since the split, Harriet built a meaningful career as a Pediatric Nurse Specialist with the NHS at Evelina London Children’s Hospital. Her focus on early brain development in babies showcases her compassionate, expert-driven approach to childcare—both professionally and as a devoted mum.
She grew up in picturesque Gloucestershire, in a loving family with ties to notable British heritage. Her quiet strength and Christian faith have been consistent themes in her occasional writings. Meeting Peter Phillips at a children’s sporting event in early 2024 marked the beginning of a new love story that blossomed naturally.
Highlights of Harriet’s post-divorce growth:
- Advanced her nursing career with a specialization in pediatric care.
- Raised Georgina with warmth and resilience, fostering a close mother-daughter bond.
- Maintained a grounded lifestyle in the Cotswolds while embracing new opportunities.
- Found love again, leading to a beautiful blended family that includes royal connections and three teenage girls who seem to get along wonderfully.
Blended Families in the Spotlight
Peter and Harriet’s June 6, 2026 wedding at All Saints Church in Kemble was intimate yet filled with royal guests, including King Charles and Queen Camilla. It represents a modern royal story—one of second chances, blended families, and quiet elegance. Georgina joined her soon-to-be stepsisters as a bridesmaid, symbolizing unity.
Antonio’s reported feelings of discomfort around the high-profile event are understandable for any parent navigating co-parenting in the public eye. However, the focus remains on the children thriving in their expanded family circle.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ex-Husband’s Name | Antonio St John Sperling (Dino) |
| Profession | Fitness Instructor, former CrossFit director |
| Daughter | Georgina Sperling (approx. age 13-14) |
| Marriage Duration | Several years (ended when Georgina was young) |
| Harriet’s Current Role | NHS Pediatric Nurse Specialist |
| Wedding Date to Peter | June 6, 2026 |
| Blended Family | Georgina + Savannah & Isla Phillips |
Conclusion
Harriet Sperling ex husband, Antonio St John Sperling, represents a private chapter in a life that has since blossomed into one of public joy and new beginnings. While details about him remain limited out of respect for privacy, what stands out is Harriet’s journey: from dedicated single mother to a loving partner creating a harmonious blended family with Peter Phillips. Their story reminds us that life often offers second chances filled with growth, love, and family unity. As this new royal chapter unfolds, the emphasis stays where it belongs—on kindness, resilience, and the well-being of the children at the heart of it all.