Updated: February 6, 2026
When people search for “Julia Donaldson ex husband,” they often expect drama or a separated story. The truth is far more heartwarming—and a little sadder. Julia Donaldson, the beloved creator of The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom, and countless childhood classics, shared a deep, 52-year marriage with Malcolm Donaldson until his passing in 2024. There was no divorce, no “ex” in the traditional sense. Malcolm was her husband right to the end, her creative collaborator, and the quiet force behind many of her greatest successes.
Let’s look at their beautiful, enduring partnership and why Malcolm remains so important in Julia’s life and legacy.
Table of Contents
How Julia and Malcolm’s Love Story Began
It all started in 1968 at the University of Bristol. Julia was studying Drama and French, while Malcolm was training in Medicine. Like any great tale, their meeting felt destined—they bonded over music, performance, and a shared sense of fun.
During university holidays, the couple went busking across Europe, with Julia singing her original songs and Malcolm playing guitar. That creative spark never faded. They married in September 1972 in a joyful ceremony at Burgh House in Hampstead, where Julia even composed a special operetta for the occasion (complete with performances by the wedding party!).
Their life together blended ordinary family moments with extraordinary creativity.
Malcolm’s Career: The Real-Life “Dr Gruffalo”
While Julia’s books enchanted millions of children, Malcolm built an impressive career helping them in real hospitals.
- Consultant Paediatrician and senior lecturer in child health at the University of Glasgow (until retirement in 2012)
- Specialised in paediatric endocrinology, improving the lives of countless young patients
- Affectionately nicknamed “Dr Gruffalo” by his young patients who knew him as Julia’s husband
He balanced demanding medical work with supporting Julia’s rising fame. Friends described him as a “giant of a man” — brilliant in medicine and full of energy when performing alongside her at book festivals, schools, and international events like the Bologna Book Fair.
Even after retirement, Malcolm continued joining Julia on stage, playing guitar and bringing her stories to life.
A Strong Family Life Through Joys and Heartache
Julia and Malcolm raised three sons: Hamish, Alastair, and Jerry. Family always came first, even through tough times.
- Their eldest son Hamish struggled with mental health issues and tragically died by suicide in 2003 at age 25.
- Julia has spoken openly about the pain, crediting Malcolm’s steady support during those difficult years.
- The couple moved from Glasgow (Bearsden) to Surrey in 2014, enjoying quieter days together.
Malcolm’s warmth extended to their grandchildren and everyone around them. Tributes after his death highlighted his kindness and commitment to children—both in hospitals and through Julia’s books.
Malcolm’s Legacy and Passing in 2024
In September 2024, Malcolm Donaldson passed away at age 75 after a battle with cancer. The children’s book world mourned deeply. Publishers, illustrators (including Axel Scheffler), and fans shared memories of his enthusiasm, humour, and unwavering support for Julia.
- He left an estate valued at around £1.3 million, left to his family in a will prepared in 2020.
- Julia has continued her work, including plans to explore West End musicals in 2026.
Their partnership showed how love, creativity, and mutual respect can fuel a lifetime of achievement.
Here’s a quick overview of key details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Malcolm Donaldson |
| Birth Year | 1949 |
| Marriage Date | September 1972 |
| Marriage Length | 52 years |
| Profession | Consultant Paediatrician, Endocrinologist |
| Nickname | Dr Gruffalo |
| Date of Passing | September 22, 2024 |
| Age at Passing | 75 |
| Cause | Cancer |
| Children | 3 sons (Hamish, Alastair, Jerry) |
Final Thoughts: A Partnership That Inspired Generations
Julia Donaldson never had an “ex-husband”—she had Malcolm, her husband, best friend, and biggest cheerleader for over five decades. Their story reminds us that behind many magical books are real-life partnerships built on love, laughter, music, and resilience.
While the world misses Malcolm’s gentle presence and guitar-strumming performances, his influence lives on in every Gruffalo song sung at bedtime and every child who discovers the joy of Julia’s stories. It’s a legacy of kindness, creativity, and family that continues to touch hearts worldwide.