In a surprising turn of events, the 2000 wedding of Queen guitarist Brian May and actress Anita Dobson, who had been in a relationship since 1986, was reportedly catalysed by infidelity. News emerged in 1999 that May, the renowned musician, had engaged in an affair with his personal assistant of more than 15 years, Julie Glover, who was married to music manager John Glover. According to reports from The Sunday Mirror at the time, Dobson, now 75, informed Glover’s husband of the relationship. Subsequently, she delivered an ultimatum to May, demanding he dismiss Glover or their relationship would end.
Unexpected Path to Matrimony for Brian May and Anita Dobson
Despite May, now 77, complying with Dobson’s demand and dismissing Glover, reportedly with a significant severance package, the future of their relationship remained uncertain. May travelled to Canada, where Dobson was performing, to reconcile. Reflecting years later on this challenging period, Dobson stated: ‘Everyone makes mistakes. We all have actions we regret, but unfortunately, this became public knowledge. At the time, I felt there was no way back. I believed it was truly over.’
Affair as Catalyst for Commitment
‘However, upon reflection, I realised the depth of my love for him, and his for me. I considered my pattern of avoiding commitment and realised it was time to confront those issues.’
‘I concluded that we had endured significant hardship and that it was time for stability and happiness. So, I told Brian I felt ready for marriage.’
Dobson’s Reflection and Growth
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Dobson, who had been engaged four times before May, further explained, ‘I believe my marriage today wouldn’t have happened without that affair. It forced me to mature and acknowledge my own role in our relationship dynamics.’
Intimate Wedding and Venetian Honeymoon
The couple solemnised their union in a private civil ceremony in Richmond upon Thames in November 2000, followed by a honeymoon in Venice.
May’s Enduring Love and Devotion
May has openly expressed his profound affection for Dobson, describing the intense impact her displeasure has on him.
‘I believe there’s an almost supernatural connection with Anita,’ he stated. ‘From the moment I met her, she has been fundamental to my existence.’
Speaking to The Daily Mail, he elaborated, ‘When she is angered by me, everything feels bleak and desolate, it’s a truly overwhelming sensation.’
‘Whenever I’ve even considered distancing myself from her in the slightest way, it feels utterly devastating.’