Thomas Rhett Admits Fame Led Him to ‘Living a Double Life’ That Nearly Destroyed His Marriage
Country music star Thomas Rhett has opened up about the challenges fame brought into his personal life, confessing that it led him to live a double life that almost tore apart his marriage. In a candid conversation with Sadie Robertson Huff on her podcast, Rhett shared how the overwhelming affirmation he received during his rise to stardom affected his relationship with his wife, Lauren Akins. This heartfelt revelation sheds light on the struggles many face behind the scenes of success and highlights the power of faith and self-awareness in healing and growth.
How Fame Drove Thomas Rhett to Live a Double Life
At the peak of his career, Thomas Rhett experienced an unprecedented level of affirmation and attention that he admits he deeply enjoyed. However, this external validation came with a cost. Rhett reflected on how this period of his life was marked by internal conflict and a disconnect between his public persona and his true self. “I look through my life and I think about all the things that have kind of twisted me or made me like not the best person to be around, and it has always been either around affirmation or lack of affirmation,” he revealed.
Despite the success and the spotlight, Rhett confessed that he was struggling internally and was not managing his marriage well. He admitted to trying to make his wife happy through various efforts but realized that placing the burden of happiness solely on himself was unrealistic and unfair. “If I look at myself as the pure sole source of her happiness, I’m going to always let her down,” he said, emphasizing the importance of finding joy beyond human relationships.
During this tumultuous time, Rhett and Akins were balancing the excitement of expecting their first biological child while also adopting a child from Uganda. The couple, who have known each other since first grade and married in 2012, found themselves stretched thin by the demands of Rhett’s career and their expanding family.
The Role of Faith in Rebuilding Their Marriage
Thomas Rhett credits his faith as the cornerstone that helped him and Lauren Akins navigate through their struggles. He shared that it took him nearly a decade to truly understand that genuine joy and happiness come from God, not from external sources or personal achievements. “Joy comes from the Lord and there are things that we can do for each other that bring each other joy,” Rhett explained, highlighting the spiritual growth that transformed his outlook on life and marriage.
He described the period when he was “the most spiritually unhealthy human being” despite maintaining a public image of spirituality. The constant travel between Uganda, where they lived for a year, and various performance locations left him feeling unsettled and disconnected. “I genuinely, I just liked what was happening so much that I think so much of me was being sucked into the world so hard that it just kept pushing me and her like this,” he said, illustrating the strain fame placed on their relationship.
Despite these challenges, Rhett and Akins made a firm commitment from the beginning that divorce was not an option. However, he acknowledged that the reality of their situation tested that resolve, as living a double life created distance between them. It wasn’t until 2020 that Rhett began to rediscover his true self, stripped of the stage, microphone, and constant affirmation.
Living Authentically and Embracing Imperfection
Today, Thomas Rhett describes himself as living his most authentic life. He credits the past five years to a deepening relationship with Jesus, who has “chiseled on my heart more” than ever before. While he admits he is not perfect and never will be, Rhett feels a peacefulness in his marriage and personal identity that was previously absent.
Lauren Akins, who has always been more private and uncomfortable in the spotlight, complements Rhett’s outgoing nature. She shared how their differences have strengthened their bond, with Rhett supporting her through moments outside her comfort zone. “He’s going to hold my hand and get me out on the other side,” she said, emphasizing the trust and partnership they share.
Akins also highlighted the importance of faith in their journey, noting that knowing the truth intellectually is different from living it daily. She praised Rhett for pushing them both beyond their comfort zones in ways that have ultimately brought them closer and enriched their lives.
Conclusion
Thomas Rhett’s honest admission about living a double life due to fame offers a powerful reminder of the challenges that can accompany success. His journey underscores the significance of faith, self-awareness, and commitment in overcoming personal and relational struggles. For couples and individuals facing similar challenges, Rhett’s story is an inspiring example of how embracing authenticity and spirituality can lead to healing and lasting happiness.
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