Monique Samuels, known for her time on “The Real Housewives of Potomac,” has opened up about her divorce from former NFL star Chris Samuels, revealing the truth behind their split and the terms of their settlement.

Although the couple once seemed happily married on TV, their relationship ended after Monique left the show in season 5. Now, Monique is sharing her side of the story, addressing rumors and setting the record straight about her marriage, finances, and life after divorce.

Monique recently appeared on the “Dear Future Wifey” podcast, where she discussed her marriage, her role as Chris’s business manager before they wed, and the prenuptial agreement they signed.

Contrary to online speculation that she married Chris for his money, Monique explained the prenup was designed to ensure she would be financially stable if their marriage ended—not to give her a windfall. The agreement stipulated that if they divorced, Monique would receive a lump sum equal to what she would have earned had she continued working as Chris’s manager.

She emphasized that she walked away with what she brought into the marriage, plus this settlement, which she used to buy a home for herself and their three children.

Importantly, Monique does not receive alimony or child support. The former couple shares joint custody, with each parent having the kids for two weeks each month

. Monique supports herself through her radio career, her time on “Love & Marriage: DC,” and her own business, all while homeschooling her children. She made it clear that she worked hard both during and after her marriage and that her financial independence was always a priority.

In a candid Instagram Live, Monique reflected on how she knew it was time to end her marriage. She described a pivotal moment in therapy when her counselor asked her to write down her ideal vision of marriage and then consider if she could stay with Chris if nothing changed.

After weeks of soul-searching, Monique realized she was deeply unhappy—not just because of her relationship, but also due to her own unresolved issues and childhood trauma.

She decided she couldn’t continue in a marriage where her needs weren’t being met and where ongoing conflict might negatively affect their children.

Monique chose not to publicly air the details of their marital problems, stating that it wouldn’t help their co-parenting relationship or benefit their family.

She and Chris agreed to maintain mutual respect, refusing to tarnish each other’s reputations. Their split was finalized after Monique filed for divorce in Montgomery County, Maryland, following more than a decade of marriage.

The couple’s marital struggles had already played out on “Love & Marriage: DC,” where viewers saw the cracks in their relationship. Monique described that season as her “cry for help,” acknowledging the confusion and tension that built up over the years.

She explained that staying together “for the kids” often does more harm than good, as it sets a poor example of what a healthy relationship should be.

Now, Monique is focused on her personal growth, her children, and building a new life on her own terms. Her story is one of self-reflection, resilience, and the courage to walk away when happiness and peace are no longer possible.

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