Chris Appleton’s personal life has always intrigued fans just as much as his iconic hairstyles. Best known as the stylist behind Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez’s signature looks, Appleton’s journey from a small-town salon to global fame is inspiring.
But beyond the glitz lies a deeply personal story of love, identity, and resilience. In this blog, we explore the truth behind Chris Appleton’s relationships, including his former partner, marriage, children, and the emotional path he’s walked.
Who Is Chris Appleton?
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Chris Appleton is a name that resonates in the world of beauty and celebrity styling. Born on 14 June 1983 in Leicester, England, he is currently 42 years old and has built a globally recognised career as a celebrity hairstylist.
Raised in a working-class family, Chris discovered his passion for hairdressing at the young age of nine, inspired by the way changing someone’s hair could transform their confidence.
His mother played a crucial role in nurturing his early talent. It was she who encouraged him to consider hair styling as a serious profession, and by the time he was 13, he had already taken his first job in a local salon.
The impact of his upbringing and early exposure to the hair and beauty industry gave him a strong foundation.
Chris studied hairdressing and soon gained a reputation in the UK for his precision and creativity. However, it wasn’t until he moved to Los Angeles that his career truly skyrocketed.
Rise To Fame
Appleton’s breakthrough came when he started working with high-profile clients such as Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Ariana Grande, and Dua Lipa. His signature looks, sleek ponytails, glass hair, and dramatic volume, quickly became trendsetters in the fashion world.
By 2020, Chris was recognised as one of the top celebrity hairstylists globally, frequently featured in fashion editorials and major campaigns.
His dedication, authenticity, and artistic approach not only elevated his work but also helped him connect deeply with his clients, many of whom consider him a trusted friend as well as a stylist.
Who Is Chris Appleton Wife?
This question often stirs curiosity due to Appleton’s layered personal life and his visibility in the entertainment industry.
As of 2025, Chris Appleton is not currently married to a woman, but he was once in a long-term relationship with Katie Katon, who is widely referred to in media as his former partner or “ex-wife” in informal contexts.
Katie Katon and Chris Appleton were in a committed relationship during their younger years and share two children together: Billy (22) and Kitty-Blu (20). Katie and Chris had known each other since the age of 13 and were together for nearly a decade before Chris came out as gay.
Katie Katon is a salon owner herself and works in the beauty industry, where she has carved out a professional identity. She is British and has generally kept a low public profile, apart from her mentions in interviews with Chris.
Their Shared History
Chris and Katie’s relationship was not a conventional marriage but rather a deep, committed partnership built over many formative years.
They created a family together and remained supportive co-parents even after their split. Katie’s support became even more evident when Chris came out, and she stood by him during one of the most challenging transitions of his life.
Although they were never legally married, Katie Katon is often referred to as Chris Appleton’s “wife” due to the length and seriousness of their relationship and the fact that they raised children together. Their story highlights a complex and emotionally mature dynamic that transcends traditional relationship labels.
Is Chris Appleton Still Married Or Divorced?
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As of August 2025, Chris Appleton is divorced. He was previously married to actor Lukas Gage, but their marriage ended within the same year it began. Chris filed for divorce in late 2023, citing “irreconcilable differences.”
The pair tied the knot in April 2023 after dating publicly for just a few months. Despite the whirlwind romance and their intimate Las Vegas wedding officiated by Kim Kardashian, the marriage was short-lived.
In interviews, Chris has explained that while the love was real, their paths were not fully aligned for the long term.
Reflections On Their Marriage
Speaking on Jay Shetty’s podcast, Chris shared emotional insights about the breakup:
“You can love someone and there not be a forever happy ending. And just because it’s not forever doesn’t mean it didn’t mean something.”
Chris expressed no regrets about the relationship, saying that every connection taught him something about himself, his boundaries, and his vision of love.
The divorce was a turning point in his personal growth journey, particularly as he prioritised his internal peace and the wellbeing of his children.
Who Is Katie Katon And What Was Her Relationship With Chris Appleton?
Katie Katon is more than just Chris Appleton’s former partner, she is a mother, businesswoman, and someone who played a pivotal role in shaping Chris’s early life.
Based in the UK, she owns a salon and has remained relatively out of the spotlight, although her name often appears in stories about Chris’s personal life.
Early Connection With Chris
Katie and Chris began dating in their early teens. Their bond grew steadily, lasting nine years and resulting in the birth of two children. Their partnership was marked by love and mutual support, but it eventually reached a crossroads when Chris could no longer hide his true identity.
Coming out was an emotional process for both of them. Chris described it as one of the most difficult experiences of his life, not just because of the personal turmoil but also due to the deep care he had for Katie.
“I loved her. I really loved her,” Chris said, reflecting on their shared history.
Katie handled the situation with grace, allowing space for her own grief while still supporting Chris and maintaining a united front for their children. They continue to co-parent respectfully and remain on good terms.
What Was Chris Appleton’s Coming Out Journey Like?
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Chris Appleton’s coming out story is one of vulnerability, courage, and ultimate self-acceptance. He hid his sexuality for years, fearing the impact it would have on the people he loved especially Katie and their two children.
A Journey Through Shame And Fear
During his guest appearance on the Jay Shetty podcast, Chris recounted how he lived in silence about his sexuality from age eight to 27. He described feeling “shame” and constantly worried about hurting those he cared for.
He reached a breaking point when he realised he could no longer live a life that wasn’t authentic. Coming out to Katie was the first step, and it required tremendous emotional strength.
“I had to respect that she needed to go through her own grief,” he said.
A Dark Period
Chris’s emotional turmoil eventually led him to a severe mental health crisis. He contemplated suicide, even going as far as checking into a hotel with pills and alcohol.
He made a call to Katie before losing consciousness and later woke up in hospital. That near-death experience became a turning point in his life.
“What if I just be that? What if I’m just gay and I just be that?” he recalled thinking.
His decision to live authentically not only saved his life but also paved the way for helping others facing similar battles.
Who Are Chris Appleton’s Children And Where Are They Now?
Chris Appleton shares two children with Katie Katon: Billy, 22, and Kitty-Blu, 20, as of 2025. Despite the dramatic shifts in their family life, Chris has remained a devoted father, often describing his children as his greatest priority.
Life After Coming Out
Coming out to his children was the hardest part of Chris’s journey. He feared they would be bullied or feel ashamed because their father was gay.
“I felt like I failed as a dad because my job was to protect them,” he said.
Thankfully, his children have shown immense strength and support over the years. While they prefer to stay out of the public eye, Chris has spoken lovingly about them and their role in his life.
He continues to be a present father, celebrating milestones, supporting their education and growth, and nurturing a strong family bond.
Who Was Chris Appleton’s Husband Lukas Gage?
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Lukas Gage is an American actor known for roles in TV series such as The White Lotus, Euphoria, and You. In 2023, he became widely recognised for his whirlwind romance and short-lived marriage to Chris Appleton.
A Fast But Public Relationship
Chris and Lukas first sparked dating rumours in early 2023 and confirmed their relationship shortly after. They married in April 2023 in an intimate Las Vegas ceremony with Kim Kardashian as officiant.
Despite the romantic start, the marriage ended within the year. Chris filed for divorce in November 2023. Both parties refrained from public drama, with Chris later reflecting on the marriage with grace and perspective.
“Moving fast doesn’t always mean you’re reckless. Sometimes it means you’re hopeful.”
Why Did Chris Appleton And Lukas Gage Divorce?
Chris Appleton and Lukas Gage’s divorce was rooted in personal misalignment rather than conflict. According to Chris, it was a mutual understanding that they were not compatible for the long term, even if the love had been genuine.
The Role Of Growth
Chris acknowledged that the relationship taught him valuable lessons about love, identity, and self-respect.
“You’re always growing and evolving,” he said.
Lukas Gage, for his part, denied infidelity rumours and maintained that their separation was amicable.
Chris has since focused on rebuilding internal alignment and continuing his career, while also ensuring that his family, especially his children, remained his top priority.
How Did Chris Appleton Cope With Mental Health Challenges?
Mental health is an area Chris Appleton has openly discussed, especially in light of his suicide attempt. His honesty about reaching a breaking point has resonated with many.
His Turning Point
The night he attempted to take his own life became the moment everything changed. Waking up in a hospital, holding a case with his children’s handwriting, Chris decided to embrace his identity fully and live his truth.
He now uses his platform to encourage others to seek help and talk about their struggles. Mental health remains a personal cause for him, and he has continued to speak on podcasts and in interviews to raise awareness.
What Has Chris Appleton Said About Love, Growth And Relationships?
Chris Appleton sees love and relationships as transformative experiences. Whether it was with Katie, Lukas, or future partners, his philosophy is rooted in growth.
“Every relationship I’ve ever gone into, I’ve learned so much,” he explained.
He views each chapter of his life as a step towards deeper self-awareness. His openness about vulnerability, love, and alignment shows that he values emotional honesty as much as visual aesthetics.
What Is Chris Appleton’s Net Worth And How Did He Build His Career?
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As of 2025, Chris Appleton’s estimated net worth is £4 million to £5 million. His success stems from his high-profile hairstyling work, media appearances, brand collaborations, and TV features.
Key Revenue Sources
- Celebrity hairstyling (Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Ariana Grande)
- Product endorsements and brand deals
- TV shows and red carpet appearances
- Educational beauty workshops
- Podcast and interview features
He has built not just a career but a legacy in the fashion and beauty industry by combining technical brilliance with personal authenticity.
Conclusion
Chris Appleton’s story is more than that of a celebrity hairstylist. It’s a tale of transformation, love, pain, growth, and acceptance. From a working-class boy in Leicester to the go-to stylist for A-listers, his journey is extraordinary.
But beyond the glam, it’s his raw honesty about his personal life, his former partner Katie, his children, his marriage to Lukas Gage, and his mental health struggles, that truly defines him.
In 2025, Chris Appleton is a beacon of resilience and inspiration, showing that even in the spotlight, being real and vulnerable is the most powerful thing of all.
FAQs
Who is Chris Appleton’s ex-wife?
Chris Appleton was never legally married to Katie Katon, but she is often referred to as his ex-wife due to their long-term relationship and shared children.
How many children does Chris Appleton have?
Chris has two children: Billy, aged 22, and Kitty-Blu, aged 20.
Who was Chris Appleton married to after coming out?
After coming out, Chris married American actor Lukas Gage in 2023, though they later divorced.
Why did Chris Appleton and Lukas Gage divorce?
They divorced due to personal misalignment, not due to any public conflict or scandal.
What is Chris Appleton’s net worth in 2025?
His estimated net worth in 2025 is between £4 million and £5 million.
What inspired Chris Appleton to become a hairstylist?
Chris discovered his passion at age nine and was inspired by the transformation hair styling could bring to people’s confidence.
How has Chris Appleton addressed his mental health?
Chris has openly shared his past struggles with suicidal thoughts and now uses his platform to support mental health awareness.
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