The Family Chantel star Pedro breaks silence on divorce, show’s ending
NEW YORK, USA (AP) — The marriage between the stars of The Family Chantel has come to an end, but the hit reality show will have a fifth and final season.
The split has been unsurprising for faithful fans of the show who’ve watched the couple’s downward spiral.
“The damage is done already,” said Pedro Jimeno, of the divorce. “It’s not going to be any reconciliation in the future.”
Jimeno, a native of the Dominican Republic, and Chantel Everett were standouts on TLC‘s popular 90 Day Fiancé reality TV show, which has become an almost cult-like followed franchise.
The original series, which debuted in 2014, follows couples navigating America’s K-1 visa process, which allows foreign citizens who are engaged to Americans to move to the US and marry within 90 days. After marriage, they can apply to become a permanent US resident.
After their initial season four debut and appearances on other 90 Day Fiancé‘ shows, Jimeno and Everett earned their own series, the first spin-off to follow an individual couple. (The show’s name came from the way Pedro, a native Spanish speaker, identified the Everett family.)
And while the love was strong initially, the union was complicated by their families who many fans believe had too much influence. The honeymoon phase quickly ended, and last season the couple experienced plenty of drama and heartbreak, resulting in a tumultuous relationship and accusations of infidelity and financial mismanagement.
The final season of The Family Chantel,’ which begins Monday, follows them as they wrap up their shared marital responsibilities — including the contentious selling of their house — and prepare for their new lives.
“On the final season of The Family Chantel you’re going to find a lot of drama, it’s going to be… painful,” said Jimeno. “I’m at peace with the marriage…I wish the best for Chantel.”