Todd Chrisley, known for his reality TV show “Chrisley Knows Best,” has recently shared insights about his time in prison and the challenges he faced. In May, Chrisley, 56, and his wife, Julie Chrisley, 52, were pardoned by former President Donald Trump after serving time for fraud and tax evasion convictions in 2022. The couple began their sentences in 2023 and were released after serving over two years. Since then, they have been candid about their experiences, notably during a conversation with their daughter Savannah Chrisley on her “Unlocked” podcast.
Reflecting on his incarceration at the Federal Prison Camp in Pensacola, Florida, Todd described the environment as filled with “miserable human beings.” He admitted, “Every day, I got up and it was my sole intent to make their life even more miserable because they were there to make our lives miserable.” His wife, Julie, echoed these sentiments, noting that the correctional officers were similarly unhappy. Todd emphasized, “They are not your friends. It’s us against them.”
Life Behind Bars
Despite the harsh conditions, Todd maintained a resilient mindset. “I think for me, I was always free. In my head, I was still free,” he explained. “I did not take up residence there. I was in prison. Prison was not in me.” To cope, Todd engaged in activities that kept his spirits high, such as making friends, praying, reading the Bible, and exercising. He also took a stand against mistreatment, particularly calling out Rick Singer, the infamous figure behind the 2019 “Varsity Blues” college admissions scandal.
“He was talking smack, saying that he didn’t wear a wire. He never told on anyone. The Feds set him up and this, that and the other,” Todd detailed.
Todd recounted a confrontation with Singer, who made a disparaging remark about his daughter Savannah. Todd warned, “I’m already in prison. I will rip your head off and s–t your neck if you talk about my child again.” Despite Singer’s dismissive response, Todd stood firm, underscoring his protective nature as a father.
Emotional Toll and Reflections
While Todd found ways to endure, the experience was not without emotional challenges. During an ABC News special titled “The Chrisleys: Life After Lockup,” he admitted to feeling anger towards God. “I was angry at God,” he confessed. “And when I went to bed that night and the lights went out, I cried myself to sleep and I said, ‘God, why are you allowing this?’”
Julie also shared her struggles, particularly missing significant family moments. “My children and my husband, you know, I missed birthdays and holidays and graduations and things that I can never get back.”
Adjusting to Life After Prison
Upon their release, the Chrisleys faced the challenge of readjusting to normal life. Todd humorously described his first shower in Nashville as akin to “your first sexual encounter.” For their first meals, Todd chose Pizza Hut, while Julie opted for Zaxby’s. The couple had been unable to see or speak to each other since beginning their sentences in January 2023, making their reunion particularly poignant.
Looking ahead, the Chrisleys are planning a return to reality television. Their daughter Savannah announced, “We have a new show coming out on Lifetime, and it will document all of these things.” This new venture marks a significant step in their journey to rebuild their lives and careers.
In 2019, the Chrisleys were indicted on charges of submitting false documents to secure over $30 million in loans, charges they denied. Todd was sentenced to 12 years, and Julie to seven years. Their story, marked by legal battles and personal resilience, continues to captivate audiences as they navigate life post-incarceration.
