A new move is typically exciting, as well as stressful. And for Deon and Karen Derrico, the move into their new home in the Season 5 finale of Doubling Down With the Derricos added more marital strife. Fans of the closer-knit large family were shocked to discover they’d filed for divorce and a judge signed off within days in June 2024. As People reports, the season finale gave insight into the strain the move added to their marriage.

In the July 2 episode, the former couple spoke openly about the difficulties they faced while renovating their new house. With construction over and new carpet down, Deon and Karen went shopping at a hardware store for their children’s “classroom.” They spoke to producers about how the moving process had affected their relationship.

“The last few months haven’t been easy for any of us, especially for Deon and I,” Karen said in a joint confessional. “We haven’t really been on the same page throughout this entire house drama, but we’re really and truly starting to communicate and see eye to eye. We all have to work together to make sure that this family tree stays extremely strong and weather any storm that comes its way.” Karen later explained how the move had really “shined a light on our differences, but at the end of the day, we got through it because we are a great team.”

After finally moving in, Karen appeared more optimistic. “When you’re trying to walk through that storm, just know that rainbow is there and it’s on other side,” Karen said. “It’s gonna be a beautiful, bright sunshine day.” Deon added, “I mean, of course, I know everyone feel like their family is the best, but we’re the mother and father of 14 beautiful, loving children, and family never changes.”

Deon and Karen are splitting legal and physical custody of their 13 minor children. Deon will pay just a little over $1,000 a month in child support in total, while Karen cares for the children’s medical expenses. She also keeps her marital name.