Jennie Garth and Peter Facinelli, former spouses who seemed destined to remain estranged, have surprisingly reconciled. In a recent interview with E! News, Garth opened up about the less-than-ideal circumstances that once marked her relationship with Facinelli, her ex-husband of a dozen years. However, amidst the devastation of the Los Angeles wildfires that claimed her home, Facinelli, best known for his role in 'Twilight,' generously offered his residence as a sanctuary for Garth and her family.
It was during the taping of an episode of Garth's podcast 'I Choose Me' in November, with Facinelli as a guest, that the couple found a pivotal moment to mend their frayed bond. "It served as a catalyst for clearing the air in many ways," Garth reflected, emphasizing how this experience facilitated "reconnecting as individuals, rather than as a divorced pair constantly at odds over parenting and life decisions."
Garth conceded, "For years, our interactions lacked the joy they could have had." They often presented a veneer of harmony, "painting a picture of rainbows and ponies when, at times, it was far from that."
Nonetheless, both have decided to leave the past behind. "I have fondness for Peter, and he feels the same for me," Garth said. "After all, we shared 17 years together. I adore his fiancée and their new son. It's liberating to be open and at ease with one another now."
Garth and Facinelli divorced in 2013 but co-parent three children. Garth has since remarried Dave Abrams, while Facinelli has moved on with a fiancée and a new son. When disaster struck, Facinelli warmly welcomed them into his home.
Garth, who starred in 'What I Like About You,' described seeking refuge with her ex as a "natural choice." "Our daughters suggested, 'Let's go to Dad's.' I agreed, adding, 'Bring the dogs. Dave, meet us there,'" she recounted. They gathered, watching the news, conversing, and enjoying Chinese food together. "In those terrifying moments, it felt incredibly reassuring, cozy, and warm," she continued. "I'm sure there were surreal instances for them, thinking, 'My mom and dad are in his kitchen, eating banana bread together?'"
Last month, Garth posted an emotional Instagram video expressing gratitude that her home had been spared. She thanked Facinelli, saying, "I'm deeply thankful to Peter for hosting us. Me, the girls, the dogs, and Dave—we're all so grateful. Our hearts also go out to the firefighters, journalists, and volunteers selflessly aiding those who lost everything."
