Tori Spelling Calls Staying with Dean McDermott a Disservice to Their Kids

Tori Spelling Reflects on Staying with Dean McDermott and Its Impact on Their Kids

In a candid podcast discussion, Tori Spelling opened up about her lengthy marriage to estranged husband Dean McDermott, revealing that she now believes her decision to stay with him may have been a mistake for their children’s wellbeing. The actress, who has been navigating her separation from McDermott, shared her thoughts during a recent conversation with psychologist Dr. Hillary Goldsher.

Spelling, 51, expressed that her deep longing for her kids to experience a united family contributed to her decision to remain in the relationship with McDermott, 58, for an extended period. She realized that this hope may have delayed a more beneficial decision for their children. Reflecting on her upbringing, where her parents, Candy and Aaron Spelling, remained together for 25 years, Tori associated a complete family with stability, even amidst challenges.

The former star of Beverly Hills, 90210, articulated her internal struggle: “As bad as things were between us, I thought it was better for the kids to have their dad in the house.” However, upon reflection, she acknowledged that this mindset likely kept her in the marriage longer than was healthy, ultimately believing it was not in her kids’ best interest.

Dean McDermott has expressed his intent to maintain a close relationship with his children despite their split, with an insider stating he is eager for access to them and aims to be a positive influence in their lives. Tori and Dean share five children—Liam, 17, Stella, 16, Hattie, 13, Finn, 12, and Beau, 7. Their marriage lasted 18 years before Tori filed for divorce last March.

During the podcast, Tori reflected on a time when both she and Dean were contemplating separation before their youngest son, Beau, was born. While she cherishes their youngest child, she admitted that staying together did not lead to improvements in their relationship following his birth.

She expressed a mix of gratitude and regret, acknowledging that while she appreciates having Beau, she wonders about the family dynamics they could have experienced. “It would be reassuring for the kids to know that their mom is here and their dad is just in the other room,” she mused.

As Tori navigates the complexities of parenting alongside her estranged husband, she admitted that their marriage faced significant turmoil, especially with Dean’s struggles with sobriety. While she recognized some progress in his recovery, it was difficult for their children to witness the instability within their household before their separation.

In a time of reflection, Tori Spelling continues to navigate her role as a mother and her relationship with Dean, striving for a balance that prioritizes her children’s well-being above all.