Why Did Yolanda and David Frost Divorce? (Updated Details)
When Yolanda Hadid and David Frost divorced in 2017, everyone wanted to know why. They were seen as a power couple, but something went wrong behind the scenes. Fans were left wondering—what really happened?
So, Why did Yolanda and David Frost divorce? Well, Yolanda’s battle with Lyme disease and financial issues were the two major reasons. The couple has talked about this divorce in a lot of interviews, and I’m sharing what they have said.
Everything is shocking!
Why Did Yolanda and David Frost Divorce? (4 Surprising Reasons)

When Yolanda Hadid and David Foster divorced in 2017, it surprised a lot of people. Here are the complete reasons their relationship ended:
- Yolanda’s health struggles took a toll on their marriage.
- They had very different lifestyles and priorities.
- David wasn’t happy about Yolanda’s reality TV career.
- Money and financial arrangements created tension.
Now, the details.
Yolanda’s Health Struggles
According to Yolanda, the biggest reason behind her divorce from David was her Lyme disease. She was diagnosed with Lyme in 2012, and it changed everything for her and David. In my opinion, chronic illness can affect the whole relationship. Yolanda needed rest, treatments, and constant care, which became a heavy load for both of them.
She once said that when someone gets sick, the marriage gets “sick” too. According to the media, David supported her at first, but over time, he found the caregiver role exhausting.
Different Lifestyles and Priorities
David and Yolanda lived very different lives, which added more pressure to their marriage. David’s career as a famous music producer meant constant travel, long hours, and a fast-paced schedule. Yolanda, on the other hand, had to focus on slowing down to recover.
Sources report that this difference in priorities created distance between them. David wanted to keep working and living his busy lifestyle, while Yolanda needed stability. In one of the interviews, Yolanda admitted that David wasn’t able to slow down to match her pace.
David Wasn’t Happy With Yolanda’s Reality TV Career
Yolanda became super popular after joining The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. While it brought her fame, it also caused tension in her marriage. David wasn’t a fan of the show—he actually called it a “nightmare.”
David felt that being part of reality TV clashed with his image as a respected music producer. He didn’t like the constant cameras, the public drama, or the attention it brought to their private lives. For Yolanda, though, the show was an opportunity to share her story.
Financial Disagreements
Another big reason behind Yolanda Hadid and David’s divorce was financial issues. From the beginning, David insisted on keeping their finances separate. He had been married three times before, and money issues had caused big problems in those relationships. To avoid that, David preferred to protect his assets with a prenuptial agreement.
While this financial arrangement might have worked on paper, it created challenges for Yolanda. As a mother of three kids (from her previous marriage), she needed to stay financially independent, even while battling her illness. Yolanda had to keep working to support herself and her family.
All of these things forced both Yolanda and David to split.
Yolanda and David’s split wasn’t the only shocking divorce story in recent times. Doug and Lisa Weiss also faced challenges that led to their highly publicized separation—here’s what happened: Doug and Lisa Weiss divorce.
What Has Yolanda Hadid Said About Her Divorce?
Yolanda Hadid hasn’t held back when talking about her divorce from David. In her many interviews, she has shared how her illness changed her relationship. She has also said some surprising things, which might shock you.
Let me break down exactly what she’s said in her interviews and appearances:
Her Illness Changed Everything
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Yolanda opened up about how Lyme disease flipped her life upside down. She said her illness changed her as a person, and it wasn’t something she chose—it just happened. She had to focus all her energy on finding a cure and caring for her kids.
Meanwhile, David’s life stayed the same. He kept traveling and living a fast-paced life. Yolanda couldn’t keep up anymore. She even said that loud music, which David loved, became unbearable for her.
She Never Saw the Divorce Coming
Yolanda shared during a Real Housewives of Beverly Hills reunion that David’s decision to leave completely blindsided her. She thought they’d stick together until she recovered, but instead, he ended it when she least expected it.
Yolanda Hadid said she didn’t know anything was wrong until November 15, 2015—the day David told her he couldn’t do it anymore. It shocked her because she believed they were still a team. Yolanda said it was like the ground had been pulled out from under her.
That moment stayed with her because it was so sudden. She didn’t feel like they had reached a breaking point, which made it even harder for her to process.
Yolanda on the Prenuptial Agreement
On Watch What Happens Live, Yolanda addressed the topic of their prenup. She confirmed that they had one but made it clear she had no regrets about it. Yolanda said she married David for love, not money, and the prenup didn’t bother her at all.
Losing Her Life Partner and Best Friend
In a Real Housewives of Beverly Hills episode, Yolanda talked about how emotionally devastating the divorce was for her. She said, “It’s like death. David was my best friend.” She admitted how much she missed him after their separation.
Yolanda’s words showed how much she valued their relationship, even after it ended.
David Foster on Divorce With Yolanda Hadid
David opened up about his life and career in the Netflix documentary Off the Record, including his 2015 split from Yolanda Hadid. While the documentary touched on their divorce, David made it clear he wasn’t willing to reveal the full story. “I will never disclose the real reason we separated,” he said.
What we do know is that David initiated the divorce. According to Yolanda’s 2017 memoir, the divorce came as a complete shock to her. She shared that the night before David broke the news, they were watching a Lakers game together, and nothing seemed out of the ordinary. But the next morning, David called her and told her he couldn’t continue the relationship.
For Yolanda, the abruptness of the decision was deeply painful.
Yolanda Hadid and David Foster Divorce Settlement
When Yolanda Hadid and David divorced in 2017, their prenuptial agreement played a key role in keeping the process smooth. Yolanda has been clear that she has no regrets about the prenup, emphasizing that she married David for love, not for financial gain.
The agreement ensured clarity when it came to dividing their assets, as both had significant wealth from their individual careers. Yolanda has expressed gratitude for the love they shared during their marriage and has never publicly criticized the terms of their settlement.
If this divorce caught your attention, you might also want to learn more about JD Harmeyer’s split.
Is Yolanda Hadid Dating Anyone After Divorce?
After her divorce, Yolanda Hadid started dating Joseph “Joey” Jingoli, a successful CEO in the construction industry, in 2019. The couple met in Pennsylvania, where Yolanda had bought a farm, and their shared love for nature.
Year | Event |
2017 | Yolanda met Joseph in Pennsylvania. |
2019 | Began dating; red carpet debut in October. |
2021 | Celebrated 2-year anniversary. |
2022 | Joseph proposed in Holland. |
2024 | Engagement publicly confirmed in August. |
How Yolanda and Joey Met
After purchasing her Pennsylvania farm, Yolanda Hadid was focused on living a peaceful, grounded life. She crossed paths with Joey Jingoli, who also had a passion for sustainable living and farm life. Joey’s values and lifestyle mirrored Yolanda’s new priorities, and they instantly connected.
For Yolanda, Joey’s calm and supportive presence was a refreshing change after her high-profile marriage.
Engagement and New Beginnings
In August 2024, Yolanda Hadid surprised fans by confirming her engagement to Joey. She revealed that he had proposed two years earlier during a special trip to Holland, her home country. Yolanda described Joey as her soulmate and expressed her excitement for their future.
On August 27, 2024, Yolanda posted a series of joyful photos with Joey, captioning them, “My happy place.” It was clear the couple was thriving. They are now building a new home together in Fort Worth, Texas.
David Frost’s New Relationship After Yolanda
After his divorce from Yolanda, David Frost found love again with singer Katharine McPhee. The couple married in 2019, and despite their 35-year age gap, they’ve built a happy and thriving relationship. They even welcomed their first child together, bringing a new chapter of joy into David’s life.
David and Katharine often make headlines with their public appearances. On June 29, 2020, David shared a heartfelt anniversary post for Katharine, which quickly went viral, racking up over 30,000 likes.
More recently, on October 11, 2024, the couple was spotted at the “Everything Merry” event in New York City, celebrating the holiday season together. The two also attended the Oscars on March 12, 2024, walking the red carpet hand-in-hand.
So, one thing is clear: they are enjoying their journey together.
What Was the Public and Media Reaction to Yolanda and David’s Divorce?
When Yolanda Hadid and David announced their divorce in 2015, it left fans and the media stunned. Many admired them as a power couple, so the split sparked a mix of sadness, speculation, and support.
Support for Yolanda
- Anna R.: “Yolanda is so strong! I can’t imagine battling Lyme disease and going through a divorce at the same time.”
- Carla M.: “She’s so inspiring. Even with everything going on, she kept her dignity and grace.”
- James L.: “Yolanda’s honesty about her illness is why I admire her. Wishing her nothing but happiness now.”
- Priya K.: “Yolanda deserved better. She needs someone who’ll stick by her, no matter what.”
- Helen S.: “I was heartbroken when they announced the divorce. It’s sad to see love end like that.”
- John W.: “This just proves how much chronic illness impacts relationships. She deserves peace.”
- Maria H.: “I hope Yolanda finds someone who matches her strength and resilience.”
- Rachel B.: “She’s a warrior. Divorce isn’t easy, but neither is Lyme disease.”
- Liam P.: “Yolanda’s focus on her health and kids shows her priorities are in the right place.”
Media Speculation About the Split
- Sophie M.: “The tabloids made it seem so dramatic, but I think they just grew apart.”
- Greg H.: “Honestly, the media made David look bad, but we don’t know the full story.”
- Claire R.: “It was everywhere. They were one of those couples you thought would last forever.”
- Tommy F.: “I wish the media would stop turning divorces into soap operas. It’s their private life.”
- Katie L.: “The coverage was intense. Every magazine had a ‘why they split’ story.”
- Victor G.: “People forget celebrities are human. Divorce is hard for anyone.”
- Julia K.: “I think the media should’ve focused more on Yolanda’s health and less on the drama.”
- Mark N.: “The headlines were harsh on David, but maybe he was struggling too.”
Reactions to David’s Silence
- Sara P.: “David refusing to talk about the divorce makes me wonder if he feels guilty.”
- Ethan B.: “His silence says a lot. Maybe he’s trying to protect Yolanda or himself.”
- Amelia F.: “Sometimes silence speaks louder than words. He clearly doesn’t want to add to the drama.”
- Harold T.: “I’m curious, but I think he’s doing the right thing by staying private.”
- Nina M.: “It’s refreshing to see someone not airing dirty laundry after a split.”
- George L.: “I wish he’d say something to clear the air, but I understand why he doesn’t.”
- Bella C.: “Yolanda’s openness versus David’s silence makes you wonder who’s really hurting more.”
- Eleanor D.: “We’ll never know the whole story, and maybe that’s for the best.”
Yolanda Hadid and David Relationship Timeline
Date | Event |
2006 | Met through Mohamed Hadid. |
December 2010 | Engaged on Christmas Eve. |
November 11, 2011 | Married in Beverly Hills. |
2012 | Yolanda was diagnosed with Lyme disease. |
December 1, 2015 | Announced separation. |
May 2017 | Divorce finalized. |
Yolanda Hadid and David’s relationship began with a spark but ended with heartbreak. Their love story had many beautiful moments but also challenges that ultimately led to their divorce in 2017.
How Did Yolanda Hadid and David Meet
Yolanda and David met at a dinner party in 2006. Yolanda was struck by David’s charm and talent as a Grammy-winning music producer, while David admired Yolanda’s confidence.
Their Engagement and Marriage
David proposed to Yolanda in 2010 during a romantic evening, complete with music and candlelight—classic David style. Yolanda said yes, and the couple tied the knot in November 2011 in an elegant ceremony surrounded by friends and family.
Their wedding was a glamorous event, reflecting their high-profile lives. Yolanda often referred to David as her “king,” and for a while.
Challenges Begin
Things took a turn when Yolanda was diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2012, just a year into their marriage. Her health became a major focus, and she had to step back from her busy lifestyle. Meanwhile, David’s career continued to thrive, involving extensive travel and performances.
The Announcement of Their Split
In December 2015, Yolanda and David announced their separation. The news shocked fans, as many had seen them as a strong and loving couple. Yolanda later revealed that David had told her the marriage couldn’t continue, leaving her heartbroken.
Despite the sadness, both tried to handle the split with grace. Yolanda focused on her health and her children, while David kept his reasons for the divorce private.
Conclusion
Yolanda Hadid and David’s divorce wasn’t just about one problem. It was a mix of health struggles, lifestyle differences, and emotional disconnect. Here’s a recap:
- Yolanda’s Lyme disease changed their dynamic and priorities.
- David’s fast-paced career clashed with Yolanda’s slower lifestyle.
- Reality TV caused tension between their personal and professional lives.
- Financial disagreements created stress in their marriage.
Though their relationship ended, both have moved on. Yolanda found joy with her fiancé Joey Jingoli, and David is thriving with his new wife Katharine McPhee.