The Real Reason Christina And Ant Anstead Split

When Christina and Tarek from HGTV's Flip or Flop finally decided to divorce in 2017, it wasn't much of a surprise. That's because, in 2016, the pair had a highly publicized dispute amid their separation that led to the police getting called, TMZ reported. The pair have since put their differences aside for the sake of their two kids, and Tarek got engaged to Selling Sunset's Heather Young in July 2020.

Soon after the exes' divorce was finalized, Christina began dating British television personality Ant Anstead, and by December 2018, the two tied the knot at their home in Newport Beach, Calif. Approximately nine months later, Christina and Ant welcomed their son, Hudson London Anstead.

Although the blended family (they each have two children from previous marriages) seemed perfect, on Sept. 18, 2020, Christina took to Instagram to share that she and Ant decided to separate. So why did the relationship come to an end? Let's take a closer look at this sad situation.

Although Christina Anstead's official statement didn't give a concrete explanation for the split, it did reveal that the decision wasn't an easy one. "Ant and I have made the difficult decision to separate. We are grateful for each other and as always, our children will remain our priority," Christina posted on her Instagram. "We appreciate your support and ask for privacy for us and our family as we navigate the future."

Of course, maybe a blended family proved challenging, with Ant even acknowledging before the marriage that it would take some work. "We wanted to make it about the kids," Ant told Entertainment Tonight. "It's the six of us. We're a blended family so it was really important for them to be a part of it." He also acknowledged to the outlet that "everybody has to be present and pulling in the same direction. That includes Tarek, it includes my ex."

Who knows, maybe with that many children and relationships involved, one or more members pulled away from the herd, and things went south. However, a source gave Life & Style a different take, claiming, "No one saw this coming. I'm hearing that Christina and Ant just grew apart. They're very different people from totally different backgrounds, and that definitely played a factor."

News of their separation is surprising, especially since Christina and Ant Anstead seemed to have a romantic relationship and a fun wedding (guests didn't even know they were attending the nuptials!). The couple began dating in October 2017 after being introduced by a mutual friend, according to House Beautiful. In July 2018, Christina gushed about Ant to People, saying, "He's so down-to-earth, and we have so much in common. We basically do the same thing, so he gets what my world is like, and he's just rolled with the punches and handled everything so well."

The couple shocked guests with a surprise wedding on Dec. 22, 2018, according to a later article by People. Guests were told to meet at their Newport Beach, Calif. home, where they would then be driven in a charter bus to see the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Instead, guests were actually treated to a winter-wonderland wedding in their front yard.

Their children had a big part in the wedding and Christina told Us Weekly: "They loved the wedding. They each got up and made little speeches, and we really included them on the big day. They're all doing really good. They're settled, happy and content." Then in March 2019, the couple announced they were expecting baby Hudson, per People.

While news of Christina and Ant's split comes as a shock, it's clear they're dedicated parents and no doubt will continue to keep their brood as top priority.

Considering Christina Anstead and Tarek El Moussa were married for seven years, it's understandable fans want to know what Tarek thinks about the split. "Christina and Tarek only talk about work and the kids, they're not really friends," a source told Hollywood Life. "As the mother of his children, he wants her to be happy, but they don't discuss personal lives at all." Well, there you have it, folks.

As for Tarek's social media activity following the breakup, he posted a coupley shot with Heather Young. "I'm just so excited about life!! I'm in love, I'm engaged, flipping 101 is on the air and Flip or Flop is on the way," he captioned the pic. "I'm telling you...it's possible to accomplish those things you have been dreaming of!"

No matter how Tarek might feel about the situation, it's clear their show, Flip or Flop, will go on as scheduled. And work might come as a welcome distraction for Christina these days. Hang in there, mama!