đź’” The Young and the Restless Star Brighton James Files for Divorce After Less Than a Year of Marriage
Fans of The Young and the Restless are used to dramatic breakups on screen—but now one of the show’s stars is facing heartbreak in real life.
According to court documents obtained by reports, Brighton James, who portrays Devon Winters on the long-running CBS soap, has filed for divorce from his wife Jiara James.
A Marriage That Lasted Less Than a Year
Legal documents filed in Los Angeles show that Brighton submitted the divorce petition on October 13, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason for the split.
The timing has surprised many fans because the couple had only recently celebrated their wedding. Brighton and Jiara tied the knot in March, meaning their marriage lasted less than a year. Reports indicate that the pair separated in June, just a few months after saying “I do.”
Because the couple does not share any children, the divorce process is expected to be more straightforward.
Brighton’s Requests in the Divorce Filing
In the paperwork, Brighton has asked the court for several specific terms:
- Neither party should receive spousal support
- Jiara should restore her maiden name after the divorce is finalized
The requests suggest the actor is hoping for a relatively simple legal separation as both move forward independently.
Not His First Divorce
This isn’t the first time Brighton James has gone through a divorce.
The actor was previously married to Ashley Leisinger. The two wed in 2011, but their marriage ended in 2014. Many fans were unaware that the soap star had been married twice.
Following that divorce, Brighton entered a long-term relationship with Brittany Sarpy, who also appeared on The Young and the Restless as Elena Dawson. Although the couple never officially announced their breakup, fans widely suspected their relationship had ended some time ago.
Interestingly, their real-life split seemed to mirror the drama unfolding on the show, where Devon’s relationship with Elena also came to an end.
From Child Star to Soap Icon
Before becoming a familiar face in Genoa City, Brighton James gained fame as a child actor. Many viewers remember him from Family Matters, where he played Richie Crawford.
However, soap fans know him best for his long-running role as Devon Winters on The Young and the Restless, a character he has portrayed for nearly two decades.
Trouble Ahead for Devon and Abby?
Ironically, while Brighton’s real-life marriage is ending, his on-screen character currently appears happily married to Abby Newman, played by Melissa Ordway.
But soap viewers know happiness rarely lasts forever in Genoa City.
Recent story hints suggest Devon and Abby’s relationship could soon face serious trouble. Rumors of betrayal and unexpected temptations are already circulating, especially with the possible return of Amanda Sinclair, portrayed by Mishael Morgan.
Could Amanda’s presence create cracks in Devon and Abby’s marriage?
What Happens Next?
In the coming weeks on The Young and the Restless, Devon will reportedly face major challenges that could put his family and relationships at risk.
Whether those struggles involve temptation, betrayal, or outside interference remains to be seen—but one thing is certain: both on screen and off, drama is surrounding Brighton James right now.
Fans will have to keep watching The Young and the Restless to see how Devon’s story unfolds.
