Samira Wiley and Lauren Morelli, one of Hollywood’s most admired couples, have announced they are amicably filing for divorce after nearly nine years of marriage, a representative confirmed Thursday, January 29.
The announcement comes as the couple — who first met more than a decade ago on the set of “Orange Is the New Black” — shared a joint statement expressing gratitude for their time together and a continued commitment to co-parenting their daughter as they transition into the next chapter of their lives.
The Two Are Committed to Co-Parenting
In a statement sent to Out, Wiley, 38, and Morelli, 43, wrote, “After nine years together we have decided to end our marriage, however, our lifelong commitment to co-parenting will forever remain.”
The pair, who tied the knot in March 2017 in Palm Springs, California, have been open about their relationship journey in the past and have often been celebrated for their visibility and support within the entertainment community.
Wiley first gained widespread recognition for her Emmy-nominated role as Poussey Washington on “Orange Is the New Black” and continues to be celebrated for her acclaimed performances, including in “The Handmaid’s Tale,” where she won an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series.
Morelli is a successful television writer and producer, known for her work on “Orange Is the New Black” and as executive producer on the Netflix drama “The Altruists.”
The Former Couple Met on Set
The couple’s path to partnership began off camera: they first met in December 2012 while working on “Orange Is the New Black,” when Morelli was part of the writing team and Wiley was starring in the series.
Over the years, they became known for their supportive and enduring relationship — highlighted by their engagement announcement in 2016 and their wedding the following year.
In April 2021, Wiley and Morelli welcomed their daughter George Elizabeth, whom they have raised together throughout their marriage and who remains at the center of their shared commitment to co-parenting.
Their statement emphasized that, despite the decision to divorce, their focus remains on providing a loving and stable environment for their child.
Fans and peers have responded to the news with warmth, noting Wiley and Morelli’s long history of advocating for LGBTQ+ visibility and celebrating love and family in the public eye.
Throughout their time together, the pair were frequently highlighted in discussions about representation and strength in relationships within Hollywood — from joint interviews to shared appearances at award shows and pride events.
