Todd Bridges, the 60-year-old star of ‘Diff’rent Strokes’, just announced his split from wife Bettijo B. Hirschi. The couple announced their separation on January 14, 2026, ending a three-year marriage. Bridges released a heartfelt statement revealing the emotional journey behind this decision.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Marriage Duration: Tied the knot in September 2022, separated January 2026 (nearly 3 years together)
- How They Met: Connected on a dating app in January 2022, engaged just six months later
- Todd’s Statement: “After much prayer and reflection, this was not an easy choice, but comes with love and gratitude for the life we shared”
- Family Impact: Bridges is stepfather to Bettijo’s four children and has two adult children from his first marriage
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Todd Bridges and Bettijo Hirschi experienced a fast-moving relationship from the start. The couple first connected on a dating app in January 2022, with Hirschi’s friend creating her profile for “market research” purposes. Within just six months, Bridges proposed, and nine months after their initial meeting, they exchanged vows. The intimate Beverly Hills ceremony featured only 40 guests in September 2022.
According to Bettijo‘s appearance on The Tamron Hall Show, the connection felt genuine and purposeful from day one. The rapid timeline reflected their mutual commitment and optimism about building a life together.
Bridges Reveals Emotion Behind the Split
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Todd Bridges released a statement expressing deep reflection on the separation. He told PEOPLE magazine, “After much prayer and reflection, my spouse and I have made the difficult decision to separate.” The actor emphasized his gratitude despite the separation. “This was not an easy choice, and it comes with a heavy heart, but also with love and gratitude for the life we shared.”
Bridges continued his statement with faith-centered language, saying, “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.” He also requested privacy during this transitional period for both parties.
Marriage Timeline and Family Structure
| Event | Date |
| Met on Dating App | January 2022 |
| Got Engaged | Approximately July 2022 (6 months later) |
| Wedding Ceremony | September 21, 2022 |
| Announced Separation | January 14, 2026 |
| Total Marriage Duration | Approximately 3 Years |
“After much prayer and reflection, my spouse and I have made the difficult decision to separate. This was not an easy choice, and it comes with a heavy heart, but also with love and gratitude for the life we shared. I thank God for the time we’ve had together, the lessons we’ve learned, and the family we’ve built.”
— Todd Bridges, Actor, ‘Diff’rent Strokes’
Bridges’ Career and History of Marriage
Todd Bridges remains a beloved figure in television history for his iconic role as Willis Jackson on the 1980s hit sitcom ‘Diff’rent Strokes’. This separation marks his second divorce. He was previously married to Dori Smith from 1998 to 2012, a 14-year marriage that produced two adult children. His 29-year-old daughter Bo and 28-year-old son Spencir are both adults navigating their own lives.
With Bettijo, Bridges became a stepfather to four children, expanding his family role significantly. The actor has been vocal about his personal growth journey, including 32 years of sobriety, which he credits with transforming his life after struggling with substance abuse earlier in his career.
What This Means for Todd Bridges Moving Forward
The separation comes at a moment when Bridges has been reflecting on his career and personal identity. He recently expressed excitement about exploring new opportunities in Hollywood on his own terms, according to exclusive interviews. The actor’s focus on faith and healing appears central to how he’s approaching this transition. Well-wishers note his grace and maturity in handling the public announcement, requesting privacy while maintaining respect for his ex-wife. How will Todd Bridges channel this personal chapter into his next creative endeavors?
Sources
- TMZ – ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ Actor Todd Bridges Splits From Wife, exclusive reporting on separation announcement
- PEOPLE Magazine – Todd Bridges and Wife Bettijo B. Hirschi Split After 3 Years, full statement and relationship timeline
- Economic Times Entertainment – Who is Bettijo Hirschi, biographical details and marriage information
Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.