Joey Lawrence’s marriage to Samantha Cope has come to an end after just two years. On August 21, Samantha filed for divorce, citing “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for their separation. She has requested that neither party receive spousal support and has set June 7 as the official date of separation.
In her court filing, Samantha is seeking full physical custody of their 19-month-old daughter, Dylan, while proposing shared legal custody with Joey. The proposed plan grants Samantha 100% physical custody, with Joey having visitation rights that are at Samantha’s discretion. When Dylan turns three, Joey may have the chance to spend two nights with her if his schedule allows and if it can be facilitated.
The parenting plan also specifies that Joey will not have extended visitation until Dylan is old enough to request it and all parties agree. Additionally, Joey must be present for the entire duration of any visitation and Dylan should not be around non-family members unless Samantha agrees to it.
Joey Lawrence’s previous marriages were to Michelle Vella and Chandie Yawn-Nelson, with whom he shares two daughters, Charleston and Liberty. Joey and Samantha first met while working together on the 2021 Lifetime thriller *My Husband’s Secret Brother*, which led to their marriage in May 2022.
Reflecting on their relationship in a December interview, Joey described their meeting as an unusual but significant event in his life. Despite the divorce, he expressed gratitude for the journey and support from loved ones, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of life.
