Country singer Sara Evans opened up about her “horrific” divorce from ex-husband Craig Schelske, which caused her to leave Dancing With the Stars in 2006. She described the divorce as one of the hardest times in her life and explained that she knew her marriage was falling apart even before joining the show. Evans and Schelske were married from 1993 to 2007 and had three children together. She ultimately filed for divorce in October 2006, alleging infidelity, verbal and emotional abuse, and claiming that he watched pornography in their home.
During her time on Dancing With the Stars, Evans began to realize the extent of the issues in her marriage when her dance partner, Tony Dovolani, asked her about her relationship. She explained that Schelske was attempting to hold her back in terms of career opportunities and was trying to paint her as an unfit mother. Despite these challenges, Evans continued to fulfill her commitments for the show and her concerts, all while dealing with her marital problems. She mentioned that the experience on DWTS occurred during a difficult period in her life but was ultimately grateful for it.
Evans described reaching her breaking point in the marriage and eventually deciding to call divorce attorneys in Nashville. She mentioned that the behavior of her ex-husband had crossed a line, and she did not want to raise her children in that environment. The situation became more intense, and Evans recalled a frightening incident while out to dinner with her children after a DWTS taping. She did not provide specifics but noted that the event led her to make the decision to file for divorce the next day. This decision ultimately led to her leaving Dancing With the Stars to focus on her children’s well-being.
Following her divorce from Schelske, Evans found love again and married Jay Barker, a former football player and radio host, in June 2008. She reflected on the challenges she faced during her first marriage and the impact it had on her life and career. Evans expressed gratitude for the support she received during that difficult time, including from her fans and the relationships she built throughout the experience. Despite the hardships she endured, Evans has continued to pursue her music career and find happiness in her personal life with Barker and her children.
Overall, Sara Evans shared a candid look at her tumultuous divorce from Craig Schelske and the impact it had on her time on Dancing With the Stars. She highlighted the difficulties she faced in balancing her career obligations with the breakdown of her marriage and the well-being of her children. Through her honesty and vulnerability, Evans shed light on the challenges faced by many individuals going through divorce and the importance of prioritizing family in times of crisis. Despite the pain she experienced, Evans has emerged stronger and found happiness in her current marriage and continued success in her music career.
