After participating in what prosecutors described as a “15-year fraud spree,“reality television personalitiesToddandJulie Chrisleymanaged to evade their initial combined prison sentences of 19 years andare headed home. In a strange stroke of luck, the couple were able tofinagle a pardon to grant their freedomlight years ahead of time. In one of the biggest upsets of 2022, the real estate tycoon and his wife were convicted of major tax evasion and federal fraud while starring on the USA network from 2013 to 2023.
Known for his satirical acerbic wit, Todd was unable to convince a jury that he and his wife of 28 years weren’t guilty of frivolously spending their massive income and failing to pay taxes. Although the couple struggled to portray a wholesome all-American family, fans of the show believe theChrisley’scommitted multiple acts of fraud to keep up with the perceived luxurious lifestyle portrayed on their reality show. The only thing the Chrisley’s enjoyed more than their family was being famous, which is why critics are predicting the couple are likely to make their way back to reality television sooner rather than later.
The Chrisley’s Lives Were Hypocritical in Theory, But Fans Loved It
The Chrisley’sbrand of old-fashioned southern Christian values didn’t truly mesh with their flamboyant lifestyle, but the contrast made for great television. Audiences were entertained by Todd’s wanna-be strict parenting and his off-the-cuff quips towards his spoiled children. He was the star of the show and never let anyone forget it withhis constant plastic surgery and injectable enhancements. On the contrary, Julie was much more subtle with her wardrobe and overall presentation. She appeared content just enjoying her over-the-top husband’s antics and enjoying their family.
As Todd’s second wife and the benefactor of his newfound fame, Julie seemed aware that her position could be replaceable anddidn’t want to rock the boat or compete with Todd’s star. The couple’s lack of chemistry was a constant topic of discussion as many fans refused to believe that Todd was truly attracted to Julie and attempted to crack the code of their union.
Despite the naysayers,the Chrisley’sshow was a huge hit. From their opulent lifestyle to their syrupy sweet southern values, audiences couldn’t get enough of comparing, contrasting and laughing at Todd’s shenanigans. The show did so well it earned the family a spin-off titled,Growing up Chrisley.With each passing season, Todd continued pushing the envelope, leaning in further to his celebrity persona. Designer labels, exotic cars and extravagant toys were the show’s co-stars, often upstaging the family and their issues. Most episodes focused on the children wanting some new expensive item and Todd explaining why they shouldn’t have it…until he changed his mind and purchased it for them.
‘Chrisley Knows Best’ Star Lindsie Chrisley Reveals She Hasn’t Seen Dad Todd in “Quite Some Time”
“I have had no contact.”
The Chrisley’s Are Rumored to Be Home Before June 2025
With the Chrisley’s scheduled to possibly be home before the first official day of summer, fans are eager to see what their first public appearance will be. For nine years, Todd and Julie worked hard to establish a reputation as a solid Christian couple driven by a strong moral compass. Before their sentencing, the couple made a point to go on social media and pray before their audience, telling fans they were giving the final say in their case to God and would be willing to accept whatever his answer may be.
Not much was heard from either Todd or Julie after the verdict was read, but their children assured fans their parents were still believing in God and remaining faithful. With a brand that depends so heavily on religion and a personal addiction to fame/celebrity, it’s likely the Chrisley’s will quickly make a public statement acknowledging their wrongdoing and asking fans for the proverbial second chance.After serving less than two yearsof a combined nearly twenty-year sentence, the head of the Chrisley family will certainly be drawn back to the scene of the crime: reality television. The family already made an announcement they were prepping their comeback ahead of the pardon via anew docuseries on Lifetime.I’m sure this ordeal will be the main attraction.
Prison Stories Have Become TV Gold
BeforeChrisley Knows Best,Todd was a real estate agent, but after having tasted the access and privilege of a celebrity lifestyle, it’s unlikely he could return to the mundane reality of selling houses. Even if he initially attempted to avoid the temptation of reality television, the public would push the couple back towards their fan base, who would, of course, be intrigued by the Chrisley’s life after being behind bars. When the announcement broke on May 27th that the couple would be released within a 48-hour window, the public knew what was next.
The only thing the public loves more than a scandal, is a great comeback story after a scandal. The formula worked forMartha Stewartafter she was released from prison and Vh1 producers believed it was an option when they castLil Kimin the exotic getaway series,Girls Tripafter she was released from prison. Even MTV’s bad boyMike “the Situation” Sorrentinoreturned to theJersey Shorefranchise after serving time behind bars. And must we not forget subjects likeGypsy Rose Blanchard?
The Chrisley’s have proven they have more lives than the average reality star. They were first charged with tax evasion and conspiracy to commit bank fraud in 2019. They managed to continue cashing in on being reality stars until they were convicted in 2022. Before the summer of 2025, the couple will be released and back home with their children and grandchildren. Judging by their previous luck and obvious favor, Todd and Julie should be back on reality television before the end of 2026. As much as some fans pointed out the couples’ hypocritical beliefs,they boasted great numbers on the screen.Get ready for more over-the-top contradictions and BS, because less than three years in the joint wasn’t enough time to teach this couple any form of retribution, but we’re guaranteed entertainment. And moreso, this just proves reality stars are exploited and rewarded for bad behavior.
Chrisley Knows Best
