James Blunt became a global sensation in 2004 when his debut album Back to Bedlam soared up the charts, thanks to the massive success of “You’re Beautiful.” The soulful ballad, paired with his background as a former British Army officer, made him an unexpected heartthrob around the world. Romantic hits like “Goodbye My Lover” and “Same Mistake” followed, helping solidify his status as one of the U.K.’s most emotional hitmakers. It didn’t hurt that then-“it girl” Mischa Barton made a surreal starring appearance in his dreamy “Goodbye My Lover” video.

In the early years of fame, his high-profile romance with supermodel Petra Nemcova grabbed headlines. But by 2012, James had found a more private, enduring love with Sofia Wellesley —a woman with noble roots and a sharp mind of h

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