Justin Trudeau’s announcement on January 6, 2025, that he’s stepping down as Prime Minister wraps up a big chapter—nine years in office filled with public attention, personal milestones, and plenty of challenges.
As the son of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Justin was no stranger to the spotlight. That only grew when he married Sophie Grégoire in 2005, making them Canada’s “first couple.” But things weren’t always picture-perfect. After 18 years of marriage, the two separated in August 2023. Now, with his resignation and the focus on their family, it’s clear how tough balancing private struggles with public life can be.
Justin Trudeau and Sophie Grégoire’s 18-Year Journey: From Childhood Friends to Canada’s First Couple
Justin and Sophie’s love story started way before they became Canada’s power couple. Sophie, who grew up in Montreal with a stockbroker dad and a nurse mom, first met Justin as a kid. She was besties with his younger brother, Michel, and spent a lot of time at the Trudeau family home. Sophie still laughs about playing in their pool and sharing her first kiss with Justin—in a closet, no less!
Years went by, and they lost touch until 2003, when they randomly crossed paths again while co-hosting a charity gala in Montreal. Back then, Sophie was an entertainment TV reporter, and Justin, at 31, was making waves as a CBC Radio panelist. Fun fact: Justin initially ignored Sophie’s email after the event (ouch!), but they reconnected a few weeks later.
Their first date? Totally unforgettable. Afghan food, karaoke (they belted out Elton John and Beatles hits), and a heart-melting moment when Justin admitted, “I’ve been waiting for you for 31 years.” Both ended up in tears, and the rest is history.
Their relationship moved fast. In 2004, Justin popped the question in a super romantic setup with rose petals and candles at a fancy hotel in Quebec. By May 2005, they were saying “I do” at Montreal’s Sainte-Madeleine d’Outremont Church. Sophie said she felt like a princess on their wedding day, and their traditional Catholic ceremony added to the fairytale vibe. Instead of going all out like some political families, they kept it simple, inviting fewer than 200 guests for an intimate celebration.
As Justin Trudeau’s political career took off, Sophie shifted her focus to advocacy work, tackling issues like health, nutrition, and body image—a cause close to her heart after her struggle with bulimia. She also became a yoga instructor and public speaker, using her platform to champion her passions while supporting Justin’s growing political presence.
The Trudeau Kids: How Xavier, Ella-Grace, and Hadrien Are Shaping Their Parents’ Legacy
Family life has always been at the heart of Justin Trudeau and Sophie Grégoire’s identity. They have three kids: Xavier, born in October 2007; Ella-Grace, in February 2009; and Hadrien, in February 2014. Trudeau often talks about how much he appreciates his family’s support, crediting them as a big reason behind his success as a leader. Even with his busy schedule, he makes his kids a priority and regularly posts heartfelt tributes to them online.
Xavier, now 17 and a spitting image of his dad, has joined Justin on important trips, like the G20 Summit in India. Ella-Grace, their only daughter, is being raised to value feminism and independence, something Justin often talks about proudly. And then there’s Hadrien, the youngest, who’s won over Canadians with his adorable antics, regularly stealing the spotlight at public events.
The Trudeaus’ marriage had its ups and downs. Both Justin and Sophie were pretty open about how hard it can be to keep a long-term relationship going. In 2022, Sophie posted on Instagram about their journey, writing it had “sunny days, heavy storms, and everything in between.” Justin also admitted in his autobiography that their relationship wasn’t perfect but highlighted their strong bond and honesty.
When they separated in 2023, it came as a surprise to many, but they handled it gracefully, focusing on co-parenting their kids. The children mostly stay with Justin at Rideau Cottage, a 22-bedroom Georgian home in Ottawa, while Sophie lives nearby so they can still keep a close family connection.
I will always fight for this country, and do what I believe is in the best interest of Canadians. pic.twitter.com/AE2nSsx5Nu
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 7, 2025
The Trudeaus didn’t just stick to family—they made friends with global dignitaries and celebrities too. Sophie hit it off with stars like Emma Watson and Meghan Markle. Emma had nothing but good things to say about Sophie, calling her generous and spirited, and even reminisced about an unforgettable morning Vespa ride through Ottawa.
Meghan, who got to know Sophie back when she was filming ‘Suits’ in Toronto, described her as a calm, grounding presence during tough times with the media. She even invited Sophie onto her podcast in 2022. These friendships show Sophie’s reach went way beyond being a political spouse. As for Trudeau, he’s shared some funny stories from his younger days—like that time he got into a playground fight with ‘Friends’ star Matthew Perry—proof of his easygoing, self-deprecating humor.
Financially, Trudeau’s wealth has always caught people’s attention. Growing up privileged, he shared that he inherited $1.2 million from his dad and earns a hefty salary as Prime Minister. His family lives in Rideau Cottage, a place he remembers fondly from his childhood when his father was in charge. Even though it’s a pretty grand spot, Trudeau has mentioned it’s a bit run-down and that he’s not keen on spending taxpayer money to fix it up.
