In a heartfelt revelation, actress Jennie Garth reflects on her emotional journey following her divorce from Twilight star Peter Facinelli. In her upcoming memoir, titled *I Choose Me: Chasing Joy, Finding Purpose & Embracing Reinvention*, Garth candidly discusses the struggles she faced and the pivotal moment that inspired her healing.
A Turning Point in the Struggle
Garth, now 54, and Facinelli, 52, ended their marriage in 2013 after 12 years together, during which they welcomed three daughters. The star of *Beverly Hills, 90210* has experienced the challenges of divorce before, previously married to musician Daniel B. Clark from 1994 to 1996. Today, she finds joy in her relationship with actor Dave Abrams, 44.
In a recent interview, Garth opened up about a particularly dark time in her life, marked by substance use that led to a hospital visit for a stomach pumping. This incident prompted her to seek rehab and ultimately embrace sobriety. “I noticed my light really dimming,” she shared. “I could see it in the mirror. I could look at the negative impact that kind of grief and anger was having on me.”
It was during this turbulent period that Garth experienced a profound shift. “There was a weird switch where one day I just said, ‘I don’t want to carry this anymore. It’s impacting my relationships and how I feel about myself. I’ve got to let it go. I’ve got to forgive him,’” she explained.
Co-Parenting with Compassion
Despite the challenges of their past, Garth and Facinelli have cultivated a cooperative co-parenting relationship. Their dynamic was highlighted last year when Garth expressed gratitude towards Facinelli for his kindness during the Los Angeles wildfires, which forced her and her family to seek refuge. “Peter and his family took us in and have been so kind,” she wrote on Instagram, conveying her appreciation for his support during a difficult time.
Facinelli has since moved on and is engaged to actress Lily Anne Harrison. They welcomed a son, Jack, in 2022, and Garth has spoken positively about their family dynamics, noting how well they’ve adapted to their new lives.
Family Ties and Shared Experiences
Garth’s reflections also touch on the surprising moments that arise in shared family life. Recently, she revealed a light-hearted anecdote about her eldest daughter, Luca, who stumbled upon her father on a dating app. “My ex-husband Peter, I was told, was on Raya. And his age range that he was looking for was also the age range of his oldest daughter,” Garth recounted on the *I Do, Part 2* podcast. Their laughter over the incident underscores the evolving nature of their family relationships.
Garth and Facinelli are also proud parents to daughters Lola, 23, and Fiona, 19. Their journey as co-parents has undoubtedly been enriched by their commitment to prioritising their children’s well-being.
Embracing Change and Finding Joy
*I Choose Me: Chasing Joy, Finding Purpose & Embracing Reinvention* is set for release on April 14, 2026. In it, Garth shares her personal evolution and the lessons learned from her experiences. Her story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of forgiveness, offering hope to others navigating similar challenges.
For those grappling with addiction or seeking support, resources are available. In the UK, individuals can reach out to Drinkline at 0300 123 1110 or visit the NHS website for assistance. In the US, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration can be contacted at 1-800-662-HELP.
Why it Matters
Garth’s candid exploration of her past serves not only as a testament to her resilience but also as a beacon of hope for many facing their own struggles. By sharing her journey, she highlights the importance of self-forgiveness and the transformative power of healing, reminding us all that it’s never too late to choose joy and purpose in life.