Following the divorce filing on August 20, Lawrence, 48, addressed their separation and responded to rumors about an affair with his Socked in for Christmas co-star Melina Alves. In an Instagram statement, Lawrence clarified the situation, stating, “I want to address the recent allegations about my personal life, including the claims of an affair with Melina Alves and my divorce.”
He emphasized, “Melina and I formed a close friendship during the filming of ‘Socked in for Christmas,’ but we did not have a physical relationship. These rumors are unfounded. Our connection was built on mutual support and shared experiences.”
Court documents reveal Cope seeks full custody of their daughter Dylan and denies spousal support
Lawrence explained that his relationship with Alves developed during a tumultuous period in his marriage with Cope. He admitted, “My marriage was deeply troubled from the start, and despite my efforts to salvage it, the issues proved insurmountable.”
He also touched upon his daughters, Charleston, 18, and Liberty, 14, from his previous marriage to Chandie Yawn-Nelson. Lawrence stated, “My daughters are my highest priority. The breakdown of my marriage was partly due to the realization that my wife could not accept my children as part of our family. I cannot compromise on the care and love my daughters deserve.”
Lawrence acknowledged the scrutiny that comes with public life but stressed, “The well-being of my children is paramount.” He concluded by thanking fans for their understanding. Cope responded, expressing concern over the false accusations, stating, “As a mother, these claims are troubling. I am focusing on healing, caring for my daughter, and processing the end of my marriage.”
Alves, in a statement released August 28, supported Lawrence’s claims, describing their relationship as a “meaningful friendship” and denying any “sexual relationship.” Court documents reveal that Cope cited irreconcilable differences for the divorce and requested to block spousal support. She seeks full custody of their daughter Dylan, 19 months, with visitation for Lawrence at her discretion.
Following the news, sources suggested Lawrence’s separation has improved his relationships with his family and co-parenting with Nelson. The separation, they noted, has been challenging but also beneficial in mending strained relationships. Lawrence and Cope, who met on the set of My Husband’s Secret Brother in 2021, married in May 2022. They announced their first child, Dylan, in September 2022, welcoming her in January 2023.
Speculation about their split began when Lawrence was seen without his wedding ring during a family vacation to Jamaica in August. The trip, described as a “vacation of a lifetime” by Lawrence and his brothers, featured the entire family, including Lawrence’s daughters and Andrew’s girlfriend.
