Behind the fame, the sold-out arenas, and the legacy of Oasis lies a deeply personal story of love, heartbreak, and evolution. Noel Gallagher, one of Britain’s most iconic musicians, is widely celebrated for his songwriting genius and electrifying performances.
But beyond the spotlight, his romantic relationships, especially with his ex-wife Meg Mathews, offer an emotional insight into the man behind the music.
This blog dives into the personal and professional relationship between Noel Gallagher and Meg Mathews covering their beginnings, marriage, challenges, divorce, and the impact it had on Noel’s music and public life. By exploring exclusive references and current insights from 2025, we unfold their relationship timeline in full.
Who Is Noel Gallagher?
Noel Thomas David Gallagher was born on 29 May 1967 in Manchester, England. As of 2025, he is 58 years old. Raised in the working-class neighbourhood of Burnage, he grew up with Irish roots, holding dual citizenship in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Early Life and Family Background
Noel grew up in a household with his parents and two brothers, including Liam Gallagher, with whom he would later form the globally renowned band Oasis.
Their father, Thomas Gallagher, was known for his strict discipline, which left a lasting impact on Noel’s childhood. He found refuge in music early on, learning to play the guitar as a teenager and idolising artists like the Beatles and David Bowie.
Entry into Music
After working as a roadie for Inspiral Carpets, Noel’s life changed when he joined Liam’s band, which was soon renamed Oasis. His songwriting prowess became the core of the band’s massive success.
By the mid-1990s, Noel was a household name, known for penning Britpop anthems like Wonderwall, Don’t Look Back in Anger, and Champagne Supernova.
Musical Career Highlights
- Genres: Rock, Britpop, Alternative Rock, Psychedelic Rock
- Instruments: Guitar, Vocals, Keyboards
- Years Active: 1991 – Present
- Labels: Creation, Big Brother, Epic, Sour Mash, Mercury
- Bands: Oasis, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds
Who Is Noel Gallagher Ex Wife?
Meg Mathews, born on 14 March 1966, is 59 years old in 2025. She rose to prominence not just as a public figure associated with Gallagher but also for her career in fashion and interior design.
Originally from Guernsey and later raised in South Africa, Meg moved to London in her twenties.
Early Life and Career
Meg had a dynamic upbringing, with her father Tony Mathews working in the advertising industry. Her passion for art, fashion, and interior design shaped her early ambitions.
She worked at Virgin Megastore and later entered the world of music promotions. Her charisma and vibrant lifestyle caught public attention during the peak of Britpop.
Rise to Fame
Although she became widely recognised as Noel Gallagher’s wife, Meg carved out her identity in London’s social scene.
Post-divorce, she established herself as an entrepreneur, becoming an advocate for women’s wellness and menopause awareness.
How Did Noel Gallagher And Meg Mathews Meet?
The story of Noel and Meg’s first meeting is a classic tale of rock ‘n’ roll romance. In 1994, Noel was dating MTV presenter Rebecca de Ruvo, who shared a flat with Meg.
It was through this mutual connection that Noel and Meg crossed paths. He was instantly drawn to her, and he soon left Rebecca for Meg.
Their relationship took off quickly. As Noel’s career skyrocketed with Oasis, Meg became a central figure in his personal life.
The couple’s chemistry became the talk of the Britpop world, and Meg became a regular presence backstage, at gigs, and in celebrity circles.
When Did Noel Gallagher And Meg Mathews Get Married?
In June 1997, Noel and Meg tied the knot in a low-key ceremony in Las Vegas. Their wedding marked the culmination of a whirlwind romance, coming just a few years after they first met.
Marriage Timeline
| Year | Event |
| 1994 | Noel meets Meg through mutual friends |
| 1997 | Married in Las Vegas |
| 2000 | Daughter Anaïs born |
| 2001 | Divorced following public split |
Their marriage was a defining chapter in both their lives, especially as it overlapped with the height of Oasis’s fame.
What Was Their Relationship Like During The Oasis Era?
During the late 1990s, Noel Gallagher was one of the most prominent figures in British music. The intense fame and constant media attention took a toll on his personal life.
Life in the Spotlight
- Meg often accompanied Noel on tours and industry events
- The couple lived a lavish lifestyle, making headlines in tabloids
- Rumours and controversies often swirled around them, including alleged partying and arguments
Influence on Music
Some Oasis songs during this period reflected the turbulence and affection in their relationship. Noel’s songwriting often channelled real-life emotions, and Meg’s presence was reportedly an inspiration behind certain lyrics.
Why Did Noel Gallagher And Meg Mathews Divorce?
The relationship began to unravel in the early 2000s. By 2001, the couple had officially divorced, ending their four-year marriage. The reasons for the split were heavily covered in the media, with adultery cited as a factor.
Alleged Infidelity
Noel was said to have had an affair with Scottish publicist Sara MacDonald, whom he met in Ibiza in 2000. However, in a surprising turn, he later admitted that he had fabricated the cheating claim to expedite the divorce process.
Divorce Impact
The divorce was amicable but emotional. They agreed on shared custody of their daughter, Anaïs.
The split marked a period of transition for both individuals, with Noel moving on to a new relationship and Meg starting to reshape her life and career.
Did Noel Gallagher Admit To Cheating On Meg Mathews?
Yes, but with a twist. After their separation, Noel initially accepted responsibility for the divorce by stating he had been unfaithful. However, he later confessed in interviews that he had not actually cheated on Meg.
He made the admission to speed up the legal process, hoping to avoid drawn-out legal battles. This revelation sparked debate among fans and media alike, offering a glimpse into the complexity of celebrity divorces.
What Is Meg Mathews Known For Today?
Meg Mathews has evolved from being a rock star’s wife to a successful entrepreneur and wellness advocate. In recent years, she has become a prominent voice in women’s health, particularly around menopause awareness.
Current Career Highlights
- Founded Meg’s Menopause, a platform offering support and products for women
- Public speaker and author, promoting openness about ageing and women’s health
- Recognised for her work in breaking taboos around menopause in the UK
Public Image
Meg is now celebrated for her authenticity and business sense. She maintains a strong presence on social media and regularly engages in charitable work related to mental health and women’s wellness.
How Did Noel Gallagher’s Relationship With Sara MacDonald Begin?
Noel’s next serious relationship began almost immediately after his split from Meg. He met Sara MacDonald, a Scottish PR executive, at the Ibiza nightclub Space in June 2000. The two quickly connected and started dating.
Life With Sara
They married in June 2011 in an intimate ceremony at Lime Wood Hotel, New Forest. Noel’s friend Russell Brand was the best man. Together, they had two sons: Donovan Rory (born 2007) and Sonny Patrick (born 2010).
Their marriage lasted for 13 years, but in January 2023, the couple announced their divorce, stating that they had reached a natural turning point in their lives.
What Impact Did The Divorce Have On Noel Gallagher’s Career And Music?
The divorce from Meg Mathews had a notable impact on Noel’s creativity and public persona. His music post-2001 began to reflect deeper emotional layers, possibly influenced by his personal life upheaval.
Musical Reflections
- Little by Little and Stop Crying Your Heart Out are believed to be inspired by themes of regret and emotional loss
- His work with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds showcased a more reflective, matured songwriting style
The period following his divorce was also one of reinvention. While Oasis continued until 2009, Noel’s solo career took off in the 2010s, earning him both critical acclaim and commercial success.
What Is Noel Gallagher’s Net Worth In 2025?
As of 2025, Noel Gallagher’s estimated net worth is £70 million. This includes revenue from:
Sources of Wealth
- Music royalties from Oasis and High Flying Birds
- Touring and merchandise
- Licensing and sync deals (including television and films)
- Real estate holdings in London and Hampshire
Despite personal ups and downs, his career remains strong, with regular festival appearances and new music releases continuing to cement his legacy.
Conclusion
Noel Gallagher’s journey from the heart of Britpop to a matured artist is deeply intertwined with his personal life.
His marriage to Meg Mathews was a defining chapter that mirrored the chaos and creativity of the 90s. While their relationship ended, its impact on his life and music remains enduring.
Meg’s own transformation into a wellness advocate shows that both individuals have grown and thrived beyond their past. In 2025, their story continues to resonate not as just celebrity gossip, but as a real human story of love, heartbreak, and personal reinvention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of Noel Gallagher’s daughter?
Noel Gallagher’s daughter is named Anaïs Gallagher. She was born in January 2000.
Did Meg Mathews remarry after divorcing Noel?
As of 2025, Meg Mathews has not remarried but has focused on her personal growth and business ventures.
How long were Noel Gallagher and Meg Mathews married?
They were married for approximately four years, from 1997 to 2001.
What does Meg Mathews do now?
She is an entrepreneur and founder of Meg’s Menopause, a company promoting women’s wellness.
How many children does Noel Gallagher have?
Noel Gallagher has three children: Anaïs, Donovan Rory, and Sonny Patrick.
Are Noel Gallagher and Meg Mathews on good terms?
Though they are not publicly close, they have maintained mutual respect and co-parented their daughter.
What bands has Noel Gallagher been a part of?
He was a founding member of Oasis and currently fronts Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
