The Real Housewives of Orange Countystar Braunwyn Windham-Burke sat alongside Sean Burke as they announced their 'experiment' trial separation. The news comes as Braunwyn continues a relationship with Fernanda Rocha while still remaining married to Sean. Fans have been left confused over the status of their unconventional family. But they came together to remain transparent and share their journey.
With Braunwyn recently getting fired from RHOC, she now has to resort to social media to get the word out on her big life announcement. Braunwyn rocked the last season with revelations on her identity as a lesbian all while being a married mother of seven. While many have suggested that Braunwyn and Sean get a divorce, the couple has stayed together in an open and respectful relationship. Braunwyn has dated a few women since coming out as gay with her current girlfriend being a former RHOC star herself. But the Burkes confirm that all is well between them as they embark on a new part of their journey as parents and a couple.
Braunwyn kicked off the week by sharing some big news. While sitting alongside her husband, Braunwyn and Sean went on Instagram Live and revealed their plans to separate for the summer. The RHOC alum announced their plans for a "trial run separation" where Braunwyn would live in Hawaii with their kids while Sean lives at a furnished rental owned by one of Fernanda's friends. "We are packing up this house, the one we filmed in last year, and we are moving,” Braunwyn said. ”We have decided jointly that we are going to take a few months apart.” They even held a Q&A and answered a few fan-submitted questions where Braunwyn confirmed that she and Fernanda are still together. Sean also confirmed that he is also dating and is happy and supportive of Braunwyn.
The couple continues to put their role as parents first and show how much they love and respect each other despite dating other people. “What we are doing right now is really healthy for them,"Braunwyn said. "I am taking my kids for six or seven weeks and when they come back, they will have a place at their father’s." With them being together for 26 years, Braunwyn explained why "having some space" will give them the "clarity" they apparently need right now. Sean also shared his excitement for living on his own. When asked if they have plans of ever being romantically involved again, Sean and Braunwyn both said "no."
There were a number of mixed reviews in the comment section with some applauding the couple for their transparency and others bashing Braunwyn. One said how great the video reveal was and how Braunwyn and Sean look like they're best friends. With Braunwyn being fired from The Real Housewives of Orange County, they won't be able to share their story on national television. One fan made note of their regret that they won't be able to see how their relationship pans out. "I think Bravo missed out on showing a modern family that is about love and respect," the follower said.
