Marlo Hampton Pinpoints Money as Major Issue in Kim Zolciak and Kroy Biermann’s Shocking Divorce

The world of reality television was left stunned earlier this month by the news of Kim Zolciak and Kroy Biermann’s divorce filing. After more than a decade of marriage, their seemingly strong union, often chronicled on Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta and their spin-off Don’t Be Tardy, came to an abrupt end. Among those reacting to the surprising split is fellow RHOAstar Marlo Hampton, who shared her candid thoughts and concerns on the latest episode of HollywoodLife‘sPay Attention, Puh-Lease!podcast. Marlo didn’t mince words, suggesting that “money is one of the biggest issues in relationships,” a statement that resonates deeply given the widely reported financial troubles plaguing Kim and Kroy.

Marlo, 47, expressed genuine shock at the news of her former co-star’s marital breakdown, telling HollywoodLife EXCLUSIVELY, “That was shocking to me. They looked so good together.” This sentiment echoed by many fans who followed Kim and Kroy’s journey from their initial meeting during Kim’s time on RHOA to their picturesque wedding and subsequent family life. Their love story, which began on reality television, often appeared to be one of the more stable and affectionate unions in the often-turbulent world of Bravo. They quickly became a fan-favorite couple, their dynamic forming the basis for their successful spin-off. However, behind the scenes, it seems financial pressures had been mounting, eventually leading to their decision to both file for divorce in early May, shattering the public perception of their perfect marriage.

The financial challenges faced by the Biermanns have been a significant talking point since the divorce announcement, aligning directly with Marlo’s observation about money being a critical factor in marital strife. Reports indicate that the couple allegedly owes a staggering over $1 million in unpaid taxes to the IRS, in addition to $15,000 to the state of Georgia for the year 2018. These substantial debts, coupled with the previous foreclosure proceedings on their lavish Georgia mansion, paint a clear picture of considerable economic strain. It’s this exact scenario that Marlo Hampton likely had in mind when she emphasized the destructive power of money-related stress in relationships. Her assertion that “money is one of the biggest issues of divorce” serves as a stark reminder of how financial instability can erode even the most loving partnerships, making everyday life incredibly challenging and creating insurmountable tension between spouses.

Offering her advice from personal observation and perhaps her own experiences within the dynamic world of reality television, Marlo stressed the importance of proactive financial planning and strong foundations for any couple. “So the only thing I say with anyone: you need a good financial advisor and you need a lot of prayer,” she advised. Expanding on this wisdom, she added, “I feel bad for them. Money is one of the biggest issues of divorce. It’s important, whoever is trying to get married, get a good CPA, whatever you believe in, get a lot of that. Cause you’re gonna need that.” This isn’t just generic advice; it’s a pointed commentary on the crucial need for transparency, professional guidance, and spiritual grounding when navigating the complexities of shared finances within a marriage. For celebrities like Kim and Kroy, who live under intense public scrutiny and often maintain a lavish lifestyle, the weight of such financial burdens can be exponentially greater, adding another layer of pressure to an already challenging personal and public situation.

Despite the unfolding drama, Marlo confirmed that she has not personally reached out to Kim since the divorce news broke on May 8. However, she maintained that their relationship has remained amicable since Kim departed the Bravo series in 2018, having been an integral part of the show’s early success. “Anytime I see Kim it’s always great. It’s always amazing,” Marlo shared, highlighting a respectful distance but still acknowledging a positive connection. “I like her pictures. We’re not the closest but I hate divorce on anyone, especially when kids are involved.” This heartfelt concern for the couple’s four children — Kroy Jr., 11, Kash, 10, and 9-year-old twins Kaia and Kane — underscores the profound impact celebrity divorces have beyond the headlines and financial woes. The welfare and emotional well-being of the children are often the paramount concern, and Marlo’s empathy reflects a universal understanding of this sensitive issue, regardless of fame or fortune. The disruption to a family unit is always a difficult path to navigate, particularly for young children.

The legal proceedings surrounding Kim and Kroy’s divorce have been just as dramatic as their financial revelations. Kim, 45, initially filed for divorce from Kroy, 37, after 11 years of marriage, reportedly citing that their union was “irretrievably broken with no hope of reconciliation.” This legal phrasing indicates that the marriage has deteriorated beyond repair, leaving no possibility for the couple to mend their differences. In her court documents, Kim requested primary physical custody and joint legal custody of their four minor children. However, Kroy quickly filed his own petition for divorce, as TMZreported, also seeking both physical and legal custody. This immediate counter-filing suggests a potentially contentious custody battle ahead, adding another layer of complexity to an already strained separation. What makes their situation even more unusual is the fact that despite the divorce filings, Kim and Kroy are allegedly still residing together in their Georgia mansion, which itself was at the center of a foreclosure scare just months prior. This arrangement, while perhaps financially practical given their circumstances and the costs associated with moving, undoubtedly adds an immense amount of emotional tension to their already fragile family dynamic, making day-to-day life under the same roof a constant challenge.

Amidst her personal turmoil, Kim Zolciak is slated to make a guest appearance on the current 15th season of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, a development that has generated considerable buzz among long-time fans. She filmed a highly anticipated dinner scene with fellow original cast members, affectionately known as OGs: Sheree Whitfield, DeShawn Snow, and Lisa Wu. Marlo Hampton, herself a significant presence on the show and no stranger to drama, expressed her excitement about watching this reunion as a fan. “The OGs are amazing together. We have a new day and era. Season 15 of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta.’ But they are amazing,” she enthused, adding a playful invitation for them to “Come on over here and play with us.” This return marks a nostalgic moment for the series, bringing back faces that helped define its early success and captivated audiences from the very beginning. For Kim, it might also offer a temporary respite or a return to a familiar, albeit dramatic, environment amidst the upheaval of her divorce, allowing her to engage with her past and perhaps find some solace in her old friendships.

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Marlo Hampton’s insightful comments regarding the Biermann divorce are just a fraction of the candid discussions she engaged in during her full interview on the Pay Attention, Puh-lease! podcast. Listeners can delve deeper into her perspectives, available now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Beyond Kim Zolciak’s surprising split, Marlo also broke down her widely talked-about big fight with fellow cast member Drew Sidora, offering her side of the story regarding the on-screen confrontation that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Furthermore, she touched upon Sheree Whitfield’s new relationship, providing her unique take on Sheree’s romantic life and what it means for her future. No topic was off-limits, as Marlo also addressed Andy Cohen’s recent comments about her in his new book, offering a glimpse into her dynamic relationship with the Bravo executive and host. From the intricacies of reality TV friendships and feuds to the personal challenges faced by her peers, Marlo Hampton’s interview is a must-listen for any fan of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, providing an unfiltered and engaging look into the lives of these captivating personalities and the drama that surrounds them.