HGTV Alum Jen Hatmaker Says She ‘Never’ Shared Custody With Ex Brandon After Affair
Jen Hatmaker, known for her work on HGTV and her candid storytelling, recently opened up about the challenging aftermath of her divorce from Brandon Hatmaker. The couple, who share five children, faced a tumultuous split following Brandon’s affair. In her heartfelt revelations, Jen disclosed that she never shared custody with Brandon after their separation, shedding light on the emotional toll and the resilience required to navigate single parenting. This article explores Jen’s experience, the impact on their children, and the ongoing journey toward healing and growth.
Jen Hatmaker’s Custody Experience After Brandon’s Affair
In a revealing conversation on “The Jamie Kern Lima Show” podcast, Jen Hatmaker detailed the difficult period following her discovery of Brandon’s infidelity. She described waking up in the early hours of July 11, 2020, to the sound of Brandon whispering on the phone with another woman—a moment that marked the beginning of the end for their marriage. Brandon left the family home the very next day.
Jen emphasized that since their separation, she has been the sole custodian of their five children. “We don’t share custody, and we never have,” she explained, highlighting the challenges of managing the household and supporting her children through the emotional fallout alone. The first year after the split was especially tough, with Jen and her kids striving to stay afloat amid the upheaval.
Despite the hardships, Jen expressed immense pride in her children’s strength and honesty throughout the process. She praised them for their resilience and maturity, noting how they have grown into brilliant young adults despite the painful circumstances.
The Impact of Divorce and Infidelity on the Hatmaker Children
Jen and Brandon’s five children were at various stages of life when the affair came to light—two teenagers in high school, two in college, and one recent college graduate. Jen acknowledged that while her children were older, the emotional impact of their father’s betrayal was profound and unavoidable.
“There’s no smoothing over a story for teenagers and young adults when a dad goes to bed on a normal night and is gone the next morning,” Jen said. She stressed that the children were fully aware of the situation and had to process the trauma in their own ways, without any sugarcoating.
Jen’s commitment to transparency and integrity in parenting was evident as she recounted how her family values were tested but ultimately reinforced by the experience. She and Brandon had raised their children to understand the importance of character and faithfulness, making the betrayal all the more painful but also a critical life lesson.
Brandon Hatmaker’s Response and Continued Role as a Parent
Brandon Hatmaker addressed the situation publicly via a statement on his Substack platform. He expressed deep regret over his affair, describing it as the lowest point of his life and acknowledging the pain it caused his family. Brandon admitted to a personal struggle that spanned several years, which culminated in his unfaithfulness.
However, Brandon disputed the narrative that he was absent from his children’s lives post-divorce. He clarified that at the time of their separation, three of their children were adults, and two were teenagers. Brandon stated that he remained engaged, supportive, and available to his children, maintaining a parenting role where appropriate.
While acknowledging that Jen bore the emotional burden of the affair’s aftermath, Brandon emphasized his ongoing commitment to his children’s well-being and expressed pride in their growth into independent young adults.
Healing and Moving Forward: Jen Hatmaker’s New Chapter
Since the divorce, Jen Hatmaker has embarked on a path of healing and rebuilding. She has found new love with boyfriend Tyler Merritt and continues to focus on her family’s emotional recovery. Jen’s recent memoir, Awake: A Memoir, delves deeper into her personal journey, offering readers an intimate look at the complexities of marriage, betrayal, and forgiveness.
Jen also reflected on the signs that hinted at trouble in her marriage long before the affair was uncovered. She acknowledged that both she and her children sensed the strain, underscoring the difficulty of confronting painful truths within a family.
Despite the challenges, Jen’s story is one of resilience and hope. Her dedication to her children and her willingness to share her experience publicly provide inspiration to others facing similar struggles.
What This Means for Families Navigating Divorce and Infidelity
Jen and Brandon Hatmaker’s story highlights the profound impact that divorce and infidelity can have on a family, especially on children. It underscores the importance of honesty, communication, and emotional support during such difficult times. For parents navigating similar situations, Jen’s experience serves as a reminder that while the road may be painful, healing and growth are possible.
Moreover, the Hatmakers’ journey illustrates that parenting after divorce can take many forms, and each family must find the arrangement that best supports their children’s needs and well-being.
Conclusion
Jen Hatmaker’s candid revelations about never sharing custody with her ex-husband Brandon after his affair shed light on the complexities of divorce, parenting, and healing. Her story is a powerful testament to resilience and the enduring strength of family bonds, even in the face of betrayal. If you or someone you know is navigating similar challenges, remember that support and understanding are key to moving forward. For more inspiring stories and expert advice on family and relationships, stay connected with our latest articles and resources.