Tears of Divorce: Ashley Darby Reveals a Major Turning Point in Her Legal Battle with Michael!

The Real Housewives of Potomac star Ashley Darby has been navigating the complexities of life after separating from her husband, Michael Darby, in April 2022. Despite their separation, the couple, who share two sons, Dean (5) and Dylan (3), remain legally married more than two years later. In a recent interview with Page Six’s Virtual Reali-Tea podcast, Ashley offered insight into the emotional toll of her prolonged divorce proceedings and shared updates about her healing journey.

A Painful Process: Coming to Terms with a New Reality

In her candid November 18 podcast interview, Ashley admitted that the drawn-out divorce has been emotionally taxing.

“It’s hard out here, okay?” she confessed. “I wish I could put a time stamp on it that everyone wants me to in relation to this divorce. It is so emotional for me. It’s a point of grieving.” She went on to describe how the process led her to a period of deep reflection and even depression as she grappled with the disparity between her current reality and the life she once envisioned.

Turning a Corner: Hope on the Horizon

Despite the challenges, Ashley revealed that she’s reached a more positive phase in her journey. “As much as I wanted to just be a bad bitch and be like, ‘Yeah!’ — in actuality, it was still really hurting me,” she admitted. However, she shared a glimmer of optimism, saying, “I will say that now, I’m in a much better place. I did something very big actually this [month]. I can’t quite share with you yet, but it was a very big step that I took this week. I shed a tear or two, but I’m feeling good otherwise.”

Ashley teased this major update during her November 17 appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, hinting that fans would learn more during the upcoming RHOP Season 9 reunion.

The Timeline for Divorce: A Mediation Milestone

In the most recent episode of The Real Housewives of Potomac (November 17), Ashley disclosed to her mother that she had met with her lawyer to discuss the next steps in the divorce process. “So now [Michael and I] have to go to a mediator, it’s a big step,” she shared, expressing cautious optimism that papers could be signed by June 2024.

In a confessional, Ashley reflected on her journey, noting, “My confidence certainly took a hit after I left Michael. But since I’ve experienced being a mom on my own, I’ve turned the corner and I’m definitely feeling more like myself. I recognize myself more when I look in the mirror now than I have in the last two years.”

Finding Joy in Motherhood: Dean’s Over-the-Top Birthday Celebration

Amid her legal and emotional challenges, Ashley remains devoted to her sons. This past July, she celebrated her firstborn, Dean, with an extravagant Pokémon-themed fifth birthday party. The event, held in her backyard, featured a bounce-house water slide, face painting, and a foam machine.

“Happiest of happy birthdays to my incredible son Dean! ♥️” Ashley captioned a July 8 Instagram post. “We ‘caught all the fun’ yesterday with our friends and family, and as Dean said, ‘It was the best birthday party ever!’ We are so incredibly blessed!”

Looking Ahead: Strength and Resilience

While her divorce remains unresolved, Ashley’s ability to embrace her role as a single mom and focus on her personal growth has been inspiring. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of co-parenting, rebuilding her confidence, or celebrating her children’s milestones, Ashley continues to prove her resilience.

With a significant life update on the horizon, fans eagerly await the RHOP reunion, where Ashley promises to share the next chapter of her journey. Until then, Ashley’s story serves as a testament to perseverance, healing, and hope.

The Real Housewives of Potomac airs Sundays on Bravo. Stay tuned for more updates on Ashley’s evolving story.