Samira Wiley and Lauren Morelli File for Amicable Divorce
February 1, 2026
After nine years of marriage, Samira Wiley and Lauren Morelli have announced that they are amicably filing for divorce. The couple shared the news in a joint statement released on January 29, emphasizing that the decision was made with care, respect, and a shared commitment to their family.
Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Netflix
The announcement marks the end of one of television’s most beloved real-life love stories — a relationship that began behind the scenes of Orange Is the New Black and grew into a marriage celebrated by fans across the world.
A Love Story That Began on Set
Wiley and Morelli first met while working on Orange Is the New Black, where Wiley portrayed the fan-favorite character Poussey Washington and Morelli worked as a writer and producer. What started as a professional connection gradually evolved into a deep personal bond, eventually becoming one of the most visible and admired relationships to come out of the show.
Morelli (left) and Wiley met while working on Orange is the New Black
The couple publicly confirmed their relationship in the mid-2010s and quickly became symbols of authenticity and openness within the entertainment industry. In 2016, they announced their engagement, followed by a wedding in March 2017 in Palm Springs, California — a celebration that reflected their personalities: intimate, joyful, and deeply personal.
Building a Family Together
In April 2021, Wiley and Morelli welcomed their daughter, George Elizabeth, a milestone they both described at the time as life-changing. Over the years, they shared glimpses of parenthood with warmth and honesty, often speaking about the importance of balance, communication, and growth.
In their divorce announcement, the couple made it clear that while their marriage is ending, their partnership as parents is not. They expressed a continued commitment to raising their daughter together with love, respect, and unity — a message that resonated strongly with fans.
A Respectful and Modern Approach
Unlike many high-profile celebrity separations, Wiley and Morelli’s announcement was notably calm and grounded. There were no public disagreements, accusations, or dramatic revelations — only a shared acknowledgment that their relationship has evolved.
The use of the word “amicably” stood out, signaling a mutual decision rather than a fractured one. For many, it reflected maturity and emotional honesty, reinforcing why the couple has long been admired beyond their professional achievements.
Where They Are Now
Professionally, both Wiley and Morelli continue to thrive. Wiley remains one of television’s most respected performers, known for choosing roles that carry emotional depth and social relevance. Her work has consistently earned praise for its vulnerability and strength.
Morelli, meanwhile, has maintained a strong presence behind the scenes as a writer and producer, shaping stories that center on identity, relationships, and human complexity. Her influence in television storytelling continues to grow.
Neither has indicated that the divorce will impact their creative work, and both appear focused on moving forward — individually and as co-parents.
Public Reaction
Following the announcement, fans responded with an outpouring of support. Many expressed sadness at the end of the relationship, but also appreciation for the transparency and grace with which the couple handled the news. Others highlighted the importance of seeing respectful breakups represented publicly, especially when children are involved.
The response reflected a broader understanding that relationships can change without failure — and that endings can still be rooted in care.
Moving Forward
While this chapter of their lives together has come to a close, Samira Wiley and Lauren Morelli’s shared history remains an important part of both their personal and professional journeys. Their story — from collaborators to partners to co-parents — continues, just in a different form.
As they move forward, their emphasis on respect, family, and growth leaves behind an example that resonates far beyond Hollywood.
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