Brianna “Chickenfry” LaPaglia opened up about her emotionally abusive relationship with Zach Bryan on the “BFFs” podcast, dedicating the episode to anyone else who has experienced emotional abuse. She revealed that the past year had been the hardest of her life and expressed fear of Bryan due to the abuse she endured. The episode started with LaPaglia sharing her thoughts about the breakup and eventually, Josh Richards and Dave Portnoy joined the conversation.
During the podcast, LaPaglia made serious allegations against Bryan, including claims of emotional abuse and an offer from his team to pay her to sign away her experiences with him. She made it clear that she refused the offer as she did not want to betray herself and others who might have accepted such deals in the past. LaPaglia also alleged that Bryan had offered her a substantial sum of $12 million, which she ultimately turned down after much contemplation.
LaPaglia discussed how she experienced emotional manipulation and abuse throughout her relationship with Bryan. She revealed instances of gaslighting and isolation from her friends and family, as well as a lack of true remorse or apology from Bryan after breaking up with her via text. This emotional abuse, alongside other troubling incidents, led to the eventual end of their relationship.
The host detailed the timeline of their two breakups, with the first occurring during a tour with her podcast cohost and a second more final breakup happening after a live show in Boston where Bryan’s behavior was concerning. Despite forgiving him initially, LaPaglia made it clear that she realized this relationship was toxic and she needed to walk away for her own well-being.
LaPaglia also shared her regrets about not seeing the red flags in their relationship earlier, acknowledging that she was manipulated and emotionally abused by Bryan. She revealed instances where Bryan tried to control her decisions, including offering to pay her to quit her job and dictating what music she could listen to in their home. Additionally, she shared a troubling incident where Bryan criticized her attire at the Golden Globes, ruining what should have been a special night.
Despite everything she experienced, LaPaglia stated that there were still aspects of their relationship that she chose to keep private. She also shared the ordeal involving her Ford Bronco, which Bryan allegedly took back after she refused to accept the money he offered her. The podcast episode shed light on the tumultuous and toxic nature of LaPaglia’s relationship with Bryan and her journey towards healing and moving on.
Through all the revelations and struggles she shared, LaPaglia emphasized the importance of focusing on her friendships and maintaining her emotional well-being. She clarified that her relationship with her podcast cohost, Grace O’Malley, remained strong despite the challenges they faced during LaPaglia’s relationship with Bryan. The episode showcased LaPaglia’s bravery in speaking out against emotional abuse and seeking closure as she navigated the aftermath of her breakup with Bryan.
