In a candid revelation, Jennie Garth has opened up about the transformative journey following her divorce from Twilight star Peter Facinelli. In her upcoming memoir, *I Choose Me: Chasing Joy, Finding Purpose & Embracing Reinvention*, the 54-year-old actress discusses her struggles with grief and anger that followed their separation, and how a pivotal moment led her to embrace healing and forgiveness.
A Tumultuous Chapter
Garth’s marriage to Facinelli spanned 12 years and produced three daughters, but their split in 2013 marked a significant turning point in her life. The actress, who also experienced a brief marriage to musician Daniel B. Clark in the mid-’90s, faced overwhelming emotions in the wake of her second divorce. In a recent interview, she revealed how the weight of her sorrow affected her wellbeing.
“I noticed my light really dimming. I wasn’t putting off good vibes. I could see it in the mirror,” Garth shared, reflecting on the negative impact of her emotional turmoil.
Her struggles came to a head one night when a combination of alcohol and pills led to a health scare that required her to have her stomach pumped. This incident acted as a wake-up call, prompting Garth to seek help in rehab, where she found the path to sobriety.
The Shift Towards Forgiveness
In her memoir, Garth describes a transformative moment when she decided to release the burden of her anger. “There was a weird switch where one day I just said, ‘I don’t want to carry this anymore,’” she recalled. This turning point allowed her to recognise that holding onto resentment was not only detrimental to her health but also to her relationships, including her role as a mother. “I’ve got to let it go. I’ve got to forgive him,” she asserted, demonstrating her commitment to healing.
Today, Garth and Facinelli enjoy a cooperative co-parenting relationship, which has evidently improved over the years. The actress expressed gratitude in January 2025 when Facinelli offered his home to her and their children during the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. “Peter and his family took us in and have been so kind,” she posted on Instagram, reflecting their amicable dynamic.
Life After Love
Facinelli, who has been engaged to actress Lily Anne Harrison since 2020, welcomed a son named Jack in 2022. Meanwhile, Garth has found happiness with actor Dave Abrams, 44. Despite their past, both Garth and Facinelli have moved on, each carving out fulfilling lives. Garth recently recounted a humorous family moment when her daughter, Luca, encountered Facinelli on a dating app, revealing the light-hearted nature of their current relationship.
This shared sense of humour and mutual respect speaks volumes about their growth since their separation, showing that even after a painful end, families can find ways to thrive.
A Memoir of Resilience
*I Choose Me: Chasing Joy, Finding Purpose & Embracing Reinvention* is set to release on April 14, 2026. In this memoir, Garth aims to inspire others who may be grappling with similar challenges. The book promises to be a beacon of hope, illustrating how one can emerge stronger from adversity.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, support is available. In the UK, you can contact Drinkline at 0300 123 1110 or visit the NHS website for resources. For those in need of help in the US, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP.
Why it Matters
Garth’s journey of healing and forgiveness highlights the importance of self-care and the power of resilience in the face of personal turmoil. Her story serves as a reminder that even after heartbreak, there is the potential for renewal and joy. By sharing her experiences, Garth not only empowers herself but also offers hope to countless others navigating their own struggles, encouraging them to choose healing over hurt.
