Sophie Grégoire, the former wife of ex-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, recently shared her thoughts on handling public attention, including the media frenzy around Trudeau’s new romance with pop star Katy Perry. In a heartfelt episode of the “Arlene Is Alone” podcast, hosted by entrepreneur Arlene Dickinson and released on November 12, 2025, Grégoire discussed her journey through divorce, co-parenting, and mental health advocacy. At 50 years old, she portrayed herself as someone focused on personal growth, emphasizing that while public scrutiny can be challenging, individual responses to it define one’s path forward.
The podcast delved into Grégoire’s broader life experiences, touching on her childhood, professional background as a former TV host and model, and the unique pressures of being part of a high-profile political family. She recounted meeting Trudeau as a child through his younger brother Michel and reconnecting in 2003 while co-hosting a charity event, which led to their marriage in 2005. Grégoire also opened up about her personal battles, including overcoming bulimia in her youth and navigating the emotional toll of public life, where every family moment felt amplified under the lens of national and international media.
Dickinson, known for her role on “Dragons’ Den,” steered the conversation toward Grégoire’s composure amid recent headlines about Trudeau’s dating life. Grégoire appreciated the acknowledgment but grounded it in reality, noting that staying “cool” doesn’t mean ignoring feelings—it means choosing how to process them constructively. This exchange highlighted her role not just as a former first lady but as an advocate who uses her platform to promote emotional resilience.
Navigating Public Attention and Emotional Triggers
As the discussion shifted to Trudeau’s relationship with Katy Perry, Dickinson praised Grégoire for maintaining her poise despite the constant media coverage. Grégoire responded thoughtfully, affirming the normalcy of emotional reactions: “You know, we’re human beings and stuff affects us. Normal.” She elaborated that public narratives, especially those involving ex-partners, can serve as significant triggers, stirring up feelings of vulnerability or discomfort in ways that feel amplified by their visibility.
Grégoire explained her strategy for coping: focusing on the “music” of life—meaning the positive, meaningful elements—rather than the surrounding “noise” of gossip and speculation. How you react to stuff is your decision,” she said, underscoring that while external events are beyond control, internal responses are a matter of choice. This approach, she noted, helps her avoid getting swept up in sensationalism and instead channel energy toward self-improvement and family stability.
Drawing from her advocacy work, Grégoire stressed the importance of acknowledging emotions fully. I’ll let myself be disappointed by someone, I’ll let myself be angry, be sad,” she shared, explaining that suppressing these feelings contradicts her mission to promote mental health. As someone who has spoken publicly about her own therapy journey and the need for societal openness around vulnerability—particularly for women in leadership roles—she views processing grief or frustration as a vital step toward healing. This perspective is informed by years of supporting mental health initiatives, including partnerships with organizations like the Canadian Mental Health Association during her time as Trudeau’s spouse.
Grégoire also addressed the broader impact of publicity on her family, mentioning how it can disrupt daily routines and create unnecessary stress. Yet, she framed these challenges as opportunities for growth, aligning with her belief that authenticity in the face of adversity builds stronger connections. Her comments resonated with listeners, offering practical insights for anyone dealing with personal transitions under public eyes.
Insights on Co-Parenting and Family Priorities
A key moment in the podcast came when Dickinson referred to Grégoire as a “single mom,” prompting a firm correction. “I’m definitely not a single mom,” Grégoire clarified, highlighting the collaborative dynamic she shares with Trudeau in raising their three children: Xavier, now 17; Ella-Grace, 16; and Hadrien, 11. She described their co-parenting as a true partnership, rooted in mutual respect and Trudeau’s unwavering commitment: “I have a partnership with a father who has such deep love and availability to his children.”
This arrangement stems from their separation announced on August 2, 2023, after 18 years of marriage. In a joint Instagram post at the time, they explained the decision followed “many meaningful and difficult conversations,” emphasizing their intent to remain a “close family with deep love and respect for each other.” The couple, who first connected in childhood and rekindled their romance in adulthood, had built a life together that blended Trudeau’s political career with Grégoire’s advocacy and media presence. Their wedding in Montreal in 2005 was a glamorous affair, often romanticized in the press as a modern fairy tale, complete with Vogue features that showcased their charisma.
Post-separation, logistical details were handled thoughtfully to prioritize the children. Trudeau continued living at Rideau Cottage in Ottawa, the family’s home since 2015, while Grégoire moved to a nearby residence but remained actively involved. The prime minister’s office at the time confirmed a legal separation agreement, noting that both parents would maintain constant presence in their kids’ lives. They even planned a family vacation shortly after the announcement, signaling their dedication to unity despite the split. Grégoire later reflected in interviews that the political lifestyle—marked by constant travel, security concerns, and public expectations—added unique strains, but it never diminished their shared parental responsibilities.
In the podcast, Grégoire elaborated on the nuances of their family life today: “We have separate lives, but we have one family life.” She advocated for a conscious commitment to nurturing their children together, regardless of personal paths. This includes coordinating schedules across time zones and ensuring the kids feel supported amid any external noise, like media stories about their father’s relationships. Her emphasis on modeling healthy emotional expression for her children ties back to her mental health work, where she encourages parents to show vulnerability rather than projecting an image of perfection.
Grégoire’s rejection of the “single mom” label also speaks to evolving views on modern family structures. She noted the societal tendency to oversimplify post-divorce dynamics, especially for high-profile women, and pushed back by celebrating the blended support system she and Trudeau have created. This setup has allowed her to focus on her own endeavors, such as writing, speaking engagements, and advocacy, while ensuring the children experience stability and love from both sides.
The Timeline of Trudeau and Perry’s Romance
Trudeau’s relationship with Katy Perry emerged into the public eye in mid-2025, coinciding with his transition out of office and Perry’s own personal changes. Rumors began swirling on July 28, 2025, when they were spotted in Montreal’s Mount Royal Park, walking closely and later dining at the upscale Le Violon restaurant, followed by drinks at Taverne Atlantic. This outing marked one of the first confirmed sightings, fueling speculation about a budding connection between the 53-year-old former leader and the 41-year-old singer.
Just two days later, on July 30, Trudeau attended Perry’s Lifetimes Tour concert in Montreal, where he was photographed enthusiastically singing along to her anthem “Firework.” Notably, his daughter Ella-Grace joined him in the audience, adding a family-friendly touch to the evening and hinting at Trudeau’s efforts to integrate his new social circle with his parental role. Sources close to the pair described their bond as rooted in shared values like environmentalism and global philanthropy—Perry has long supported causes like UNICEF, while Trudeau’s tenure included climate initiatives—despite the challenges of Perry’s demanding tour schedule spanning multiple continents.
By early August, insiders confirmed the romance was genuine but still in its early stages, with the couple keeping things private to avoid overwhelming attention. They navigated long-distance elements creatively, with Trudeau traveling to support Perry’s shows when possible. Speculation quieted somewhat in September, but resurfaced dramatically on October 11 when photos surfaced of them kissing on Perry’s yacht, The Caravelle, during a September getaway off Santa Barbara, California. The images, captured discreetly, showed an intimate embrace that left little doubt about their status.
Perry addressed the buzz playfully during her October 13 concert in London, responding to a fan’s onstage proposal by quipping, “You heard I was single? That’s interesting,” before joking about bad timing. This lighthearted nod came amid reports of her recent split from Orlando Bloom in June 2025, after nine years together and two engagements. The couple’s history added layers to the story, as Perry had previously dated high-profile figures, but her connection with Trudeau was portrayed as refreshingly grounded.
The official public confirmation arrived on October 25, 2025, during Perry’s 41st birthday celebration at the iconic Crazy Horse cabaret in Paris. Paparazzi captured them hand-in-hand as they exited, with Perry stunning in a vibrant red gown and Trudeau in a sleek black suit. Fans outside serenaded her with “Happy Birthday” and presented roses, turning the moment into a celebratory spectacle. Perry later engaged online by liking a humorous post about entering her “Canadian manufacturing era,” a subtle wink at Trudeau’s heritage.
Earlier glimpses, like a September passerby photo of them in an embrace, had hinted at the romance’s progression, but the Paris outing solidified it as a serious pairing. Observers noted the contrast between Trudeau’s post-political life—now focused on private ventures and family—and Perry’s high-energy career, yet their mutual interest in music, charity, and lighthearted fun seemed to bridge any gaps. Grégoire’s podcast reflections, coming just weeks after this debut, demonstrate her ability to rise above the details, prioritizing emotional well-being and family over tabloid intrigue.
