Justin Guarini is entering a new chapter of his life, quietly closing one that spanned more than a decade. The “American Idol” season 1 runner-up finalized his divorce from his longtime wife, Reina Guarini, after nearly 15 years of marriage. TMZ was the first to report the news.
According to court records obtained by TMZ, he filed for divorce in June 2024, with the divorce finalized in December 2025, largely away from public attention.
The former couple, who share two children, built their life together after reconnecting years following their high school days, later marrying in 2009.
A New Personal Chapter Begins
GettyAs per the report, Guarini has begun a new chapter in his personal life and is now in a relationship with business coach Kim Phillips.
He has largely kept the transition private, but the change reflects a quiet fresh start for the singer and performer after more than a decade with his former partner.
From ‘American Idol’ to Broadway Career
Guarini first stepped into the spotlight as the runner-up to Kelly Clarkson on the inaugural season of “American Idol,” quickly becoming a recognizable and well-liked presence for viewers.
GettyGuarini’s rise to fame began alongside Kelly Clarkson during the first season of “American Idol,” a moment that also led to their on-screen pairing in the film “From Justin to Kelly.”
Years later, Clarkson confirmed that the two had briefly dated, reflecting on the experience with honesty and warmth.
“We did date a little bit,” she said (as reported by Pop Sugar) during a 2015 appearance on “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen.”
“I think any two people who are thrown together that much would. Guy, girl … just saying … ‘Timeless,’ put that song on From Justin to Kelly, you can’t fight it!”
While their relationship was short-lived, the two have remained on good terms, even reuniting on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” in 2023 and revisiting their early days with a sense of nostalgia.
In the years that followed, he explored music before finding his footing on stage, where he steadily built a career in theater. His Broadway credits include “American Idiot,” “Romeo and Juliet,” “Wicked,” “In Transit,” and “Once Upon a One More Time.”
He has also taken on roles in regional productions such as “Rent,” “Chicago,” and “Mamma Mia!,” continuing to grow as a performer beyond his early television success.
Justin Guarini Embraces New Purpose as Speaker, Coach, and Author
In recent years, Guarini has expanded his work beyond acting and music, stepping into a new role as a keynote speaker and coach focused on communication and storytelling.
“Justin coaches entrepreneurs and business owners to unlock their ‘Signature Story,’” his website states. “His 1-on-1 and small group coaching sessions have helped high achievers and six- to seven-figure business owners enhance their storytelling skills, increase sales, and deliver exceptional service.”
He is also widely known to audiences for his role as Lil’ Sweet in Dr. Pepper commercials and is released his book in August 2025, “Center Stage Confidence,” centered on building confidence in both personal and professional life.
