Todd Bridges, best known for playing Willis Jackson on the popular TV show Diff’rent Strokes, has announced that he and his wife Bettijo B. Hirschi are separating after three years of marriage. The news was shared by Bridges in a heartfelt statement given to People magazine on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. The actor spoke openly about the emotional difficulty of the decision and asked for privacy during this personal time.
Diff’rent Strokes Star Todd Bridges Separates After 3 Years
In his statement, Todd Bridges said that the choice to separate came after “much prayer and reflection.” He described the decision as painful but said it was made with love and gratitude for the life they shared together. Bridges also thanked God for the time they spent as a couple, the lessons they learned, and the family they built. He added that even during this period of change, he believes God is guiding both of them toward healing, peace, and new beginnings.
Bridges also shared kind words for his wife, saying that he continues to lift his former partner up in prayer. He wished her happiness and fulfillment in the next chapters of her life. The actor politely requested privacy as they went through this transition, showing respect and maturity while handling the situation publicly.
The couple’s love story began in January 2022 in an unusual way. In December 2024, Hirschi revealed on The Tamron Hall Show that a friend had created a dating profile for her and showed it to Bridges for what she jokingly called “market research.” Their connection grew quickly, and Todd Bridges proposed just six months later. They got married in a small, intimate wedding ceremony in Beverly Hills, California, in September 2022.
Before marrying Hirschi, Todd Bridges was married to his first wife Dori from 1998 to 2012. They share two adult children, son Spencir, 28, and daughter Bo, 29. Hirschi also has four children from a previous relationship. Bridges remains widely recognized for his role on Diff’rent Strokes from 1978 to 1985 and has appeared in other shows like Everybody Hates Chris, Celebrity Big Brother, and World’s Dumbest…. Despite this personal change, he continues to be a respected name in television.
Author: Purnima s
Purnima | Entertainment Blogger 4+ yrs writing fun blogs on movies, celebs & trends. Pop culture addict serving fresh, binge-worthy content!
