Todd Bridges and Bettijo Hirschi Announce Divorce After Three Years: A Look at Their Blended Family and Her Accomplished Career

In a development that has captured the attention of fans and media alike, actor Todd Bridges, widely recognized for his iconic role as Willis Jackson on the beloved sitcom Diff’rent Strokes, and his wife, Bettijo Hirschi, have announced their decision to separate and divorce. The news, confirmed on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, comes just over three years after the couple exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony, marking the end of a relationship that many admired for its public narrative of finding love later in life and building a blended family.

The announcement was delivered with a tone of mutual respect and reflection, a sentiment often elusive in high-profile separations. Bridges, now 60, shared a statement with outlets like TMZ and PEOPLE, saying, “After much thought and mutual respect, we have decided to end our marriage.” He further elaborated, “After much prayer and reflection, my spouse and I have made the difficult decision to separate. I thank God for the time we’ve had together, the lessons we’ve learned, and the family we’ve built. Even in this season of change, I trust He is guiding us both toward healing, peace, and new beginnings.” This emphasis on a “season of change” and a lack of dramatic fallout or scandal suggests a conscious, joint decision to move forward separately, prioritizing their individual well-being and the harmony of their extended families.

A Whirlwind Romance and a Blended Family

Todd and Bettijo’s journey together began in January 2022. Their initial connection, described by Hirschi on The Tamron Hall Show in December 2024, came through a dating profile her friend set up for her, which was then shown to Bridges for “market research.” This somewhat unconventional beginning quickly blossomed into a profound bond. Within six months of their initial meeting, Bridges proposed to Hirschi by the ocean side, a romantic gesture that underscored the rapid and deep connection they had forged. Their engagement was swiftly followed by their wedding on September 25, 2022. The couple tied the knot in a private ceremony at the picturesque Greystone Mansion and Gardens in Beverly Hills, celebrating with approximately 40 close friends and family members, followed by a reception at the nearby restaurant Il Cielo.

Their marriage was notable not only for its swift progression but also for the creation of a significant blended family. Bridges brought two adult children into the union: his 28-year-old son, Spencir, from his first marriage to Dori Smith (1998-2012), and his 29-year-old daughter, Bo, from a previous relationship. Bettijo Hirschi, in turn, entered the marriage with four children of her own. This merging of families, with a total of six children, presented its own unique set of dynamics and challenges, requiring patience, understanding, and a shared commitment to fostering a supportive environment for everyone involved. Todd Bridges often spoke publicly about the joy of having such a large family, embracing his role as a stepfather and the new experiences it brought.

Bettijo Hirschi: A Creative Force Beyond the Marriage

While often identified in headlines as Todd Bridges’ wife, Bettijo Hirschi is an accomplished professional in her own right, boasting a career spanning over two decades across various creative fields. She is a multi-talented individual whose expertise encompasses photography, design, and event planning. Her extensive professional background includes more than 20 years of experience in diverse areas such as writing, editing, blogging, prop styling, set decorating, and publicity.

Hirschi’s creative prowess has not gone unnoticed in the industry. Her work has been featured in a plethora of esteemed publications, including Real Simple, O, Redbook, Allure, Parents, Family Circle, and Health. These features highlight her distinct aesthetic and her ability to craft compelling visual narratives and engaging content. Furthermore, her reputation led to an appearance as a guest on the highly popular Martha Stewart Show, a testament to her standing as an authority in lifestyle and design. Beyond her professional commissions, Bettijo also channels her creativity and passion for family life into her own digital platform, a lifestyle and parenting blog titled “Paging Supermom.” This blog serves as a personal outlet where she shares insights and inspiration focused on family life, creativity, and the multifaceted journey of motherhood, resonating with a wide audience of parents seeking practical advice and creative ideas.

Todd Bridges: An Enduring Hollywood Figure

Todd Bridges’ career trajectory is a testament to his resilience and enduring presence in Hollywood. Rising to fame as a child star, he secured his place in television history with roles in The Waltons and the groundbreaking miniseries Roots before becoming a household name on Diff’rent Strokes. As one of the few original core cast members of the iconic sitcom to maintain a public career, Bridges has navigated the complexities of child stardom and personal challenges with a remarkable tenacity. In later years, he continued to work on projects such as Everybody Hates Chris and served as a commentator on the TruTV series World’s Dumbest, showcasing his versatility. As of 2026, Bridges remains active in the entertainment industry, with several film projects underway, including the eagerly anticipated movie Skate to Hell. His journey reflects a career marked by both significant highs and lows, yet consistently demonstrating his commitment to his craft.

The Nuance of Public Separations

The announcement of Todd Bridges and Bettijo Hirschi’s separation offers a nuanced perspective on celebrity relationships. In an era often dominated by dramatic breakups and public disputes, their mutual decision, delivered with statements emphasizing respect, prayer, and reflection, stands out. It underscores that even in the public eye, relationships can evolve and conclude with dignity, acknowledging shared history while gracefully moving towards individual futures. The concept of a “season of change” eloquently captures the often unspoken realities of long-term relationships, where personal growth and evolving paths can lead even deeply connected individuals in different directions without malice or scandal. This approach allows for a more constructive narrative, focusing on mutual well-being rather than speculative blame. Their separation, while undoubtedly difficult, serves as a reminder that even the most cherished public unions can reach a natural conclusion, guided by a shared understanding and a desire for peace.

The decision by Todd Bridges and Bettijo Hirschi to part ways, characterized by mutual respect and a focus on personal growth, highlights the evolving nature of modern relationships, particularly those under public scrutiny. Their journey, from a rapid connection to building a blended family and now amicably separating, underscores the complexities of balancing individual paths with shared commitments, even for those who have found love later in life.