Derren Litten, the celebrated writer and creator behind the iconic British TV comedy Benidorm, recently found himself in the headlines, not for a new show or project, but rather for his personal life, specifically his marriage and subsequent divorce. For years, Litten’s private life was a mystery to many, but recent news surrounding his relationship with fellow Benidorm star Jake Canuso has attracted considerable attention across the UK.
This article takes a deep dive into the story of Derren Litten’s marriage, his husband Jake Canuso, their unexpected split, and the impact it has had on both their personal lives and the beloved Benidorm series. It explores verified facts, publicly shared sentiments, and reactions from industry insiders, presenting an informative yet engaging narrative for UK readers.
Who is Derren Litten?
Born in Kingston upon Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, Derren Litten is a prominent English writer and actor. Best known for creating Benidorm, which aired on ITV from 2007, Litten has been a respected figure in British comedy television. Over the years, his writing and creativity brought a distinct charm to British comedy, celebrated by audiences nationwide.
Litten has always maintained a distinct boundary between his professional and personal life. However, his marriage to Jake Canuso, who starred as the popular character Matteo Castellanos in Benidorm, brought their private lives briefly into the spotlight.
The Marriage of Derren Litten and Jake Canuso
Unlike many celebrity relationships broadcast to the public, Derren Litten and Jake Canuso maintained a low profile about their partnership. Sources confirm the couple were married quietly years ago, living together in Benidorm, Spain, where Litten even owned a bar named “Matteo’s,” inspired by Jake’s character on the show. Jake frequently made guest appearances there, blending personal life with their professional success.
Their relationship was one of genuine affection, understood by those close to the production, but intentionally kept away from the media glare.
The Divorce: A Miserable Separation
In late 2022, news surfaced that the couple had separated. The split was reportedly difficult, described by Derren Litten himself as “pretty miserable.” Following a drawn-out process, their divorce was officially granted in August 2024.
Derren took to social media to express the emotional toll the divorce took on him. In a rare glimpse into his personal life, he wrote, “I don’t really talk about my personal life here but the reason I’ve been a bit scarce on the socials is that for the last 18 months, I’ve been going through a pretty miserable divorce. So I’m obviously poor now.” His candidness resonated with many, shedding light on the profound effects of the split on his wellbeing and career.
Impact on the Benidorm Series
The fallout from their divorce has extended beyond just personal heartbreak. Reports have suggested that plans for the long-awaited Benidorm reboot have been stalled, largely due to tensions between Litten and Canuso. As the creator of the show and one of its leading actors, their fractured relationship reportedly complicated negotiations for the series’ return.
Insiders indicated that while discussions about reviving Benidorm were ongoing, the personal issues between the two principals made progress difficult. Some suggest that Litten believes he should have full creative control, while Canuso is hesitant about returning unless offered a compelling deal.
As a result, fans might need to wait longer or content themselves with reruns while the former couple navigate their post-marriage relationship.
Who is Jake Canuso?
Jake Canuso, a Swiss-born British actor and dancer, gained fame through his role as Matteo Castellanos on Benidorm, where he became a fan favourite for his comedic and charismatic portrayal of the randy barman. Fans affectionately remember his character for his charm and humour throughout the show’s entire 10-series run.
Canuso’s career, closely intertwined with Benidorm, now faces challenges as he decides how involved he wants to be in the show’s future. His marriage and subsequent divorce from Litten have brought additional scrutiny and complexity to his professional choices and public persona.
Why the UK is Interested in Their Story
The story of Derren Litten and Jake Canuso resonates widely across the UK because Benidorm is considered a landmark British comedy. Its humour, setting, and characters reflected British holiday culture with affection and wit, becoming a staple of ITV’s comedy offerings.
With the behind-the-scenes drama now public, there is intrigue over how this personal turmoil might influence the continuation of a beloved TV series. Additionally, their openness about the challenges of divorce, especially among public figures, brings a relatable human element.
Official Reactions and Industry Insight
While neither Derren Litten nor Jake Canuso has made extensive public comments beyond acknowledging the divorce, representatives for both have confirmed there is no commission yet for a new Benidorm series at ITV as of 2025.
Industry experts note that such breaks between key collaborators—especially when intertwined personally—can disrupt production schedules and affect revivals. The dynamics between Litten and Canuso are particularly delicate given their dual roles as creator and star, underscoring the complexities behind the scenes of popular TV shows.
What’s Next for Derren Litten?
Since the divorce, details on Litten’s personal life remain scarce. He retains a strong reputation as a writer and actor and is reportedly exploring new projects, though none as prominent as Benidorm.
His openness about the hardships he endured during the divorce invites public empathy and may signal a future where he is willing to discuss such issues more openly.
Conclusion
Derren Litten’s husband was Jake Canuso, the charismatic star of Benidorm. Their marriage, private yet public-facing through their work, ended in a challenging divorce in 2024. This personal upheaval has had professional repercussions, notably stalling the much-anticipated Benidorm reboot.
For UK audiences, understanding the human stories behind beloved television shows adds depth to their entertainment. Litten and Canuso’s story is one of success, love, heartbreak, and resilience—an unfolding narrative resonant beyond the screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Derren Litten married to?
Derren Litten was married to Jake Canuso, known for his role as Matteo in Benidorm. They were married quietly for several years before divorcing in 2024.
When did Derren Litten and Jake Canuso divorce?
Their divorce was officially granted in August 2024 after a challenging separation.
Did the divorce affect the Benidorm TV series?
Yes, reports suggest their personal split complicated negotiations for the show’s reboot, causing delays.
What role did Jake Canuso play in Benidorm?
Jake Canuso portrayed Matteo Castellanos, a popular and comedic bartender character throughout the series.
Is there a new Benidorm series coming soon?
As of 2025, ITV has not commissioned a new series, with plans reportedly affected by the fallout between Litten and Canuso.
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