Peter Facinelli opens up about co-parenting with ex-wife Jennie Garth

“Twilight” actor Peter Facinelli and Jennie Garth announced their divorce in 2012, and as you might imagine, navigating life with three daughters after the split hasn’t always been easy. But, five years later, Facinelli opened up about the former couple’s co-parenting skills—and it really seems as though they’ve got this tricky situation sorted out.

When Garth spoke out about the divorce back in 2012, she told People magazine, “We both saw it unravel, and it was painful. I tried everything I could to save our marriage.”

Facinelli was hesitant to speak to the press about their relationship. But when he did finally open up, he had this to say: “It’s very painful to break up with somebody, especially after you’ve been together for 17 years and have kids.”

Jennie Garth Peter Facinelli photo
Getty Images | Larry Busacca

But, he also admitted that being the best parents to their kids was a top priority for the pair.

“We’re very dedicated to being great parents,” he said on “Live With Kelly.”

According to Facinelli’s recent interview, he and Garth have managed to work out a system that allows them to split time with their daughters equally.

“I get the kids one week on and one week off so we share the kids 50/50, but if they have games and events, we are both there,” he told LaPalme magazine. “We talk all the time about co-parenting and the kids.”

Jennie Garth Peter Facinelli photo
Getty Images | Kevin Winter

How They Got Through The Difficult Times

He also admits, however, that getting to this point wasn’t necessarily easy.

“I think once there was a time where we had to learn that we had to be able to move forward with love and respect,” he said.

But, once they were able to focus on remaining positive for their children (now ages 11, 14 and 20) and the love they still had for each other, they’ve been able to establish a new relationship that works well for the whole family. This even includes vacationing together with their new significant others and the kids in tow. Garth has since remarried actor Dave Abrams, and Facinelli is reportedly dating Lily Anne Harrison.

“People come into your life for a reason and relationships can change,” Facinelli told LaPalme. “Just because we aren’t living together doesn’t mean [we] can’t love each other.”

Jennie Garth Peter Facinelli photo
Getty Images | Kevin Winter

Advice For Other Parents

Facinelli also shared a bit of advice for other parents who may be going through a similar situation:

“Anyone going through a breakup should know, kids need to see mom and dad happy. As long as they know they’re happy, they know they will be,” he said.

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Augusta Statz
I have a B.F.A. in Writing from the Savannah College of Art and Design. I’m an avid writer with a genuine sense of curiosity. I feel the best way to absorb the world around you is through fashion, art and food, so that’s what I spend most of my time writing about.

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