Tears of Heartache: ‘Love Is Blind’ Star Iyanna’s Emotional Journey Post-Divorce with Jarrette

Iyanna McNeely and Jarrette Jones crossed paths during the second season of Love Is Blind, but their love story took an unexpected turn when they shared news of their separation in August. Since 2021, Kelly Wynne has been utilizing her talent as a TV writer at PEOPLE digital. She has also made a mark in the world of media by contributing her insights on reality TV and true crime for Newsweek. In addition to that, Kelly has showcased her versatile writing skills through her contributions to Atwood Magazine and her personal mental health blog, The Chronically.

Iyanna McNeely is experiencing a wave of emotions as she finalizes her divorce from her ex-husband, Jarrette Jones. The star of Love Is Blind season two took to TikTok to share her heartfelt feelings about love in a tearful video. With tears streaming down her face, she expressed, “Divorce is undeniably a grieving process. Even though some people may find humor in the length of our marriage, I truly believed in it. My expectations, hopes, efforts, and tears all contributed to its reality.”

She continued to reflect on her initial mindset when she entered the marriage, admitting, “I am shedding tears for the woman I used to be at the beginning of this union – a woman filled with hope, carrying less emotional baggage, and embodying an optimistic outlook.”

McNeely and Jones were introduced to each other during the second season of Love Is Blind. They got engaged without ever laying eyes on each other and eventually tied the knot on the show’s finale after living together on-screen. Even an After the Altar special documented their married life after the wedding.

However, the couple revealed their separation in August, followed by the official filing for divorce in October. They explained that their lives were heading in different directions as the reason for their split.

As she continued pouring her heart out in the TikTok video, McNeely expressed, “I am shedding tears for the marriage that I believed could thrive. I am grieving for the man I thought he was – the person he convinced me he was during the beginning stages and the genuine connections we shared amidst the meticulously planned filming schedule.”

“However, once the cameras stopped rolling, reality hit hard,” she added, before finding her voice of strength. “But make no mistake, I am happy that I am moving forward. I am content to leave behind something that no longer serves me, something that drained every ounce of life within me.”

In this soul-baring TikTok, Iyanna McNeely openly shares her journey through the ups and downs of her marriage and embraces the newfound happiness in moving on from an unsuccessful relationship.

The author also mentioned that her time with Jones brought about questions that challenged her understanding of herself. She expressed her disappointment by saying, “If my own husband couldn’t appreciate me, then screw it.”

McNeely elaborated further in her caption, sharing her hopes for her former husband. “I still care deeply for that man. Of course, I can only speak about my own experience, and I hope that Jarrette learns to be truly open with those he loves. I don’t have any regrets; instead, I am using this as a learning opportunity.”

She continued by mentioning her intention to discuss her marriage on her podcast in the future. However, for now, she wanted to reach out to those who may relate to her situation. “To anyone going through a divorce, breakup, or experiencing grief, it’s alright. It’s alright to feel, to process, and to lean on your loved ones. Every experience is meant to teach us, shape us, and challenge us. Embrace it.”

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Jones released a statement to PEOPLE on Wednesday, announcing the finalization of his divorce with Iyanna. He mentioned that they will remain friends and he wishes her nothing but the best. Additionally, he thanked everyone for their support and understanding throughout the process.

Catch all seasons of Love Is Blind, from 1 to 3, now available for streaming on Netflix.