Actor Joey Lawrence: "This Realization Played a Significant Role," in Divorce From Samantha

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Actor Joey Lawrence went on Instagram to clear the air for Alabama fans on whether he had a physical relationship with costar Melina Alves, along with the real reason behind his divorce from actress, model, and writer Samantha Cope.

On August 29, 2024, Lawrence said, " With a deep sense of responsibility, I want to respond to the recent allegations surrounding my personal life, including my divorce and claims of an affair with Melina Alves." He continued, "Melina and I became close friends and I did not have a physical relationship with her while filing the moving "Socked in for Christmas." These rumors are false. Our bond was based on shared experiences and an understanding of the challenges we were both facing in our personal lives."

Samantha Cope, Joey Lawrence, Melina AlvesPhoto byInstagram

Lawrence continued with details about the problem in his marriage which ultimately led to him and Cope separating.

"At the time I met Melina, I was in the midst of a deeply troubled marriage. I was clinging to the hope that I could save a relationship that, in my heart, I knew was beyond saving.....As a father, my three daughters are my world. They are, and always will be my top priority. The unraveling of my marriage was tied to my realization that there was no way my two eldest daughters were ever going to be accepted by my wife as part of my family," Lawrence said.

He continued, " I cannot and will not compromise on the love and care that my daughters deserve, and this realization played a significant role in the breakdown of my relationship."

Lawrence concluded his statement by acknowledging the complexity of living a public life, recognizing that it may present occasional challenges.

"However, I must emphasize that the well-being of my children is of the utmost importance, " said Lawrence as he ended his post by thanking his fans for respecting and understanding his decision.

One day before Lawrence spoke about the rumor, Alves posted a message on her Instagram denying the allegations as well.

Samantha Wants Out

On August 21, 2024, TMZ reported Cope filed for divorce after two years of marriage citing "irreconcilable differences", and she wants to have sole custody of the daughter she and Lawrence share.

In the docs, she specifically asks the court to award her 100% physical custody ... with Joey allowed to visit only at her discretion. She says once their daughter Dylan -- born in January 2023 -- turns 3, she's willing to allow their daughter to stay with Joey for up to 2 nights a week ... but, requests he not be allowed to take her for extended periods of time ... until she's older and can consent to such visits.

Samantha adds she doesn't want any non-family members around Dylan while she's visiting her father either ... unless Samantha gives the OK.

In June 2024, Cope posted on her Instagram that " not everything you lose is a loss. Some things are a freedom. Some things are a second chance. Some things are a miracle in disguise."

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