Carmella Garcia reflected on ending her decade-long relationship with Danny Hampel. The RHOC star confirmed their breakup happened months ago after filming wrapped. She said the decision centered on choosing herself and protecting her family.
Carmella Garcia says ending her 10-year relationship was about putting herself first
Garcia confirmed to Page Six that she “called it quits” with Hampel after 10 years together. She said the relationship was difficult; Hampel was close to her children. “At the end of the day, I needed to put myself first,” Garcia said.
The luxury real estate agent discovered something “gravely inappropriate” after filming ended. She did not reveal exactly what Hampel allegedly did. Earlier episodes showed their relationship had already faced infidelity.
Garcia previously revealed that Hampel cheated on her four years earlier. She said the latest discovery made forgiveness increasingly difficult. “The dishonesty just continued, and I called it quits,” Garcia explained.
The breakup also affected Garcia’s two sons from her previous marriage. Jason, 17, and Jax, 15, reportedly “struggled” with her decision. Garcia said their relationship was “not a healthy” example for her children.
Garcia also discussed feeling inadequate during the decade-long relationship. She said she needed to become enough for herself and her children. “I was never enough for him,” she said.
Garcia compared the relationship’s ending to escaping a difficult situation. “The ship was sinking, and I needed to save myself,” she explained. Her decision ultimately reflected a need to protect herself.
The Real Housewives of Orange County star called watching their relationship onscreen the “hardest part.” She credited Jennifer Pedranti and Tamra Judge as “amazing” support systems. Garcia also discussed whether she felt ready to date again.
She said she hired a “team of therapists” while working through personal issues. Garcia admitted she struggled with suppressing pain over the years. “I needed to walk through it, and the only way through it is straight through it,” she said.
Garcia joined RHOC during its milestone 20th season and documented relationship struggles onscreen. She remains legally married to former NFL quarterback Jeff Garcia. The pair separated publicly in 2020 and share four children.
