As of 2026, Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen remain happily married, recently celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. Since their departure from the "Real Housewives of New York City" and their subsequent relocation to Australia, the couple has transitioned from reality television personalities to established professionals in the fields of psychology and law, maintaining one of the most enduring partnerships in the history of the franchise.
The relationship between Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen was a foundational element of the early years of Bravo’s "The Real Housewives of New York City" (RHONY). Often referred to by fans as "Silex," the couple was notable for their intense bond and a level of marital synchronization that was frequently the subject of commentary—both positive and skeptical—by their castmates and the viewing public. While many "Housewives" marriages have succumbed to the pressures of reality television stardom, Alex and Simon have defied the statistical "curse," using their exit from the spotlight to build a private, academically driven life in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Foundation of a Decades-Long Marriage
Alex and Simon first met through an online dating site in the late 1990s, a time when such platforms were still in their infancy. Their connection was immediate, rooted in a shared appreciation for New York City culture, high fashion, and intellectual discourse. They married on May 28, 2000, and soon became fixtures in the Brooklyn social scene, particularly in the neighborhood of Boerum Hill, where they famously renovated a brownstone that became a central character in their television narrative.
During their four-season tenure on RHONY (2008–2011), the couple was portrayed as being "joined at the hip." Unlike other couples on the show who often navigated separate social circles, Simon was frequently seen attending "girls' trips" or social events alongside Alex. While this dynamic led to friction with other cast members—most notably Ramona Singer and Jill Zarin—it served as early evidence of their marital solidarity. Even under the scrutiny of national television, there was never a hint of infidelity or significant domestic discord; rather, they presented a united front against their critics.
The Strategic Relocation to Australia
A pivotal moment in the couple’s marriage occurred in 2014 when they made the decision to leave New York City and move to Australia. Simon, originally from Brisbane, had long entertained the idea of returning to his home country, and the couple felt that the move would provide a more grounded environment for their two sons, Francois and Johan.
This relocation was not merely a change of scenery but a complete lifestyle overhaul. By moving to the Byron Bay area of New South Wales, the family traded the frantic pace of Manhattan and Brooklyn for a coastal lifestyle. This transition is often cited by relationship experts as a key factor in their marital longevity. By removing themselves from the "Bravosphere" and the constant need to maintain a specific public persona, they were able to focus on their family unit and individual professional growth.
The Impact of the Move on Family Life
Moving across the world is a significant stressor for any marriage. However, for Alex and Simon, the move seemed to strengthen their partnership. They navigated the logistics of international immigration, the enrollment of their children in Australian schools, and the establishment of a new social network. In interviews following the move, Alex noted that the lack of paparazzi and "reality TV noise" allowed them to reconnect with the reasons they married in the first place.
Career Transformations and Intellectual Pursuits
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Alex and Simon’s post-TV life is their radical career shifts. While many reality stars attempt to extend their fifteen minutes of fame through podcasts or social media influencing, the van Kempens chose the path of higher education.
Alex McCord’s Journey into Psychology
After leaving the show, Alex McCord pursued a career in psychology. She earned her Bachelor’s degree and subsequently completed a PhD. By 2026, she is a recognized professional in the field, often focusing on geriatric psychology and cognitive research. Her transition from a graphic designer and reality star to a doctor of psychology is frequently highlighted as one of the most successful "second acts" in entertainment history.
Simon van Kempen’s Legal Career
Not to be outdone, Simon van Kempen also returned to school. After years of working in hotel management and social media consulting, Simon pursued a law degree. His entry into the legal profession in Australia provided the family with a stable, professional foundation far removed from the unpredictability of the entertainment industry.
The fact that both partners supported each other through rigorous academic programs—often while raising two teenagers—speaks to a high level of mutual respect and logistical cooperation. In a marriage, supporting a partner through a career change is a known "stress test," and the van Kempens passed it twice over.
Raising the Next Generation: Francois and Johan
By 2026, the couple’s sons, Francois and Johan, have reached adulthood. Fans of the early seasons of RHONY will remember the boys as toddlers and young children. Growing up in Australia, the boys have largely been kept out of the public eye, a choice made by Alex and Simon to ensure their privacy.
The success of their children is often viewed as a reflection of the stability of Alex and Simon’s marriage. Despite the chaotic environment of their early years in the spotlight, the boys have grown up in a household characterized by academic achievement and parental presence. Simon and Alex have frequently shared milestones of their sons' lives on social media—graduations, sporting achievements, and travel—always emphasizing the importance of the family unit.
Milestones and Significant Dates
To understand the timeline of their relationship, the following table outlines the major milestones in the lives of Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen leading up to 2026.
| Year | Milestone | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Meeting | Met via an online dating service in NYC. |
| 2000 | Wedding | Married on May 28 in New York City. |
| 2003 | Birth of Francois | Their first son was born, appearing later on RHONY. |
| 2005 | Birth of Johan | Their second son joined the family. |
| 2008 | RHONY Debut | The couple became "Original Cast Members" of the franchise. |
| 2011 | Exit from Bravo | Left the show after four seasons to focus on family. |
| 2014 | Australia Move | Relocated from Brooklyn to New South Wales. |
| 2020 | 20th Anniversary | Celebrated two decades of marriage during the global pandemic. |
| 2023 | Alex's "Girls Trip" | Alex returned briefly to TV for RHUGT Season 4/5. |
| 2025 | 25th Anniversary | Reached the "Silver Anniversary" milestone. |
| 2026 | Current Status | Still married, living and working in Australia. |
Why the "Silex" Marriage Succeeded Where Others Failed
In the world of the Real Housewives, the divorce rate is notoriously high. From the original New York cast, nearly every marriage featured in the early seasons eventually ended in divorce. Alex and Simon are the glaring exception. Several factors contribute to this:
- Shared Goals: Both partners were equally invested in their social climbing during the NYC years and equally invested in their academic pursuits in the Australian years. They were never pulling in different directions.
- Lack of Competition: Unlike some reality TV couples where one spouse becomes jealous of the other’s fame, Simon was Alex’s biggest cheerleader, and vice versa.
- Removal from the Spotlight: By moving to Australia, they avoided the "revolving door" of reality TV drama that often poisons personal relationships. They chose a "normal" life when the cameras stopped rolling.
- Mutual Intellectual Respect: Both Alex and Simon value education and intellectual rigor, which has provided a strong secondary bond beyond their initial romantic attraction.
Recent Public Appearances and Social Media Presence
While they lead a mostly private life, Alex and Simon have not completely vanished. Alex McCord made a highly anticipated return to the screen in The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip, where she showcased a more mellow, yet still sharply intelligent, version of herself. Throughout the promotional cycle for that appearance, she spoke glowingly of Simon, confirming that he remained her "rock" and primary support system.
Their social media presence is also a testament to their ongoing relationship. They frequently post photos of their travels across Australia and international trips to visit family. These updates are characterized by a lack of artifice; they appear as a couple that is genuinely comfortable in their own skin and with each other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Alex and Simon ever divorce?
No, Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen have never divorced or legally separated. They have remained continuously married since May 28, 2000. Despite rumors that occasionally surface in tabloid media, there has never been any evidence of marital strife.
Where do Alex and Simon live now?
As of 2026, the couple resides in New South Wales, Australia. They moved there in 2014 to be closer to Simon’s family and to pursue new career opportunities. They have lived in the Byron Bay/Northern Rivers region for over a decade.
What are Alex and Simon's current jobs?
Alex McCord is a professional psychologist with a PhD, focusing on clinical and research work. Simon van Kempen is a lawyer, having earned his law degree in Australia. Their careers represent a significant shift from their previous work in the fashion and hospitality industries.
How many children do they have?
They have two sons, Francois and Johan. Both children were born in New York City but have spent the majority of their formative years in Australia. By 2026, both are young adults pursuing their own education and career paths.
Will they ever return to The Real Housewives of New York City?
While Alex appeared on The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip, a full-time return to the main RHONY series is unlikely given their permanent residence in Australia. However, they remain iconic figures in the franchise's history and occasionally engage with fans through social media and special guest appearances.
Final Perspective on the van Kempen Marriage
The enduring nature of Alex and Simon’s marriage serves as a counter-narrative to the idea that reality television inevitably destroys relationships. By prioritizing their family, supporting each other's radical career changes, and knowing when to step away from the cameras, they have built a life that is both successful and private. In 2026, they stand as a rare example of a reality TV couple that not only survived the "curse" but thrived in spite of it. Their journey from the red carpets of Manhattan to the quiet suburbs of Australia is a testament to the power of a unified partnership.
