The truth is revealed!!!! Lauryn “Pumpkin” Efird and her ex-husband Josh Efird finally announce the REAL reason why they decided to break up.

The split between Lauryn “Pumpkin” Efird and her husband Josh Efird in 2024 surprised many fans of Mama June: From Not to Hot. However, details shared by Pumpkin and sources close to the couple suggest their divorce was the result of long-standing marital issues combined with major family trauma.

Breakdown in Communication

Pumpkin revealed that communication had been a serious problem for years. She said she spent a long time “crying and begging” Josh to communicate with her, but nothing changed. Over time, their marriage no longer felt romantic and instead became:

“more like roommates raising kids than a couple in love.”

Both reportedly felt emotionally disconnected, which slowly eroded their relationship.

Family Tragedy Changed Everything

A major turning point came in late 2023 with the death of Pumpkin’s sister, Anna “Chickadee” Cardwell, after her battle with cancer. The loss deeply affected Pumpkin and forced her to reevaluate her life.

She later admitted that she realized she did not want to:

“waste her life begging for the bare minimum in an unhappy relationship.”

The tragedy pushed her to choose personal happiness and emotional health over staying in a broken marriage.

Pressure From Mama June

Another ongoing source of tension was the strained relationship between Josh and Pumpkin’s mother, Mama June Shannon. Their long-running conflicts reportedly created constant stress inside the marriage, making it harder for Pumpkin and Josh to maintain stability at home.

Rumors of a Third Party

Following the divorce, rumors surfaced that Pumpkin had begun dating Darrin Kitchens, who is reportedly Josh’s cousin. Some sources even claim the relationship may have started before the official separation, fueling speculation and controversy. Pumpkin has not publicly confirmed when the relationship began.

Divorce and Custody Agreement

Pumpkin and Josh finalized their divorce in September 2024. They agreed to share 50/50 custody of their four children, stating that their kids remain their top priority despite the end of their marriage.

A Difficult Ending to a Public Marriage

Their breakup marks the end of a six-year marriage that played out largely in the public eye. While the relationship ended under painful circumstances, Pumpkin has said she is now focused on rebuilding her life, protecting her mental health, and raising her children in a more peaceful environment.

💬 One fan commented:

“After everything Pumpkin has been through, she deserves happiness and stability.”

The divorce of Lauryn “Pumpkin” Efird and Josh Efird reflects how unresolved communication problems, family pressure, and emotional trauma can slowly destroy even long-term relationships—especially when lived under the spotlight of reality television.