Debby Pfaff, the popular Belgian reality star, has recently navigated through the emotional waters of divorce after 22 years of marriage to Nicolas Liébart. At the age of 49, Pfaff reflects on how she has processed this significant change. With two sons, Keano and Liam, the couple shared many memories together, yet decided it was time to part ways.
"Natuurlijk heb ik gehuild," admitted Pfaff, recalling the emotional turmoil following the separation, reported by HUMO. The divorce has been challenging, yet she has made it clear she does not see it as failure; rather, it is part of life's learning curve.
After nearly two decades spent under the public eye, Pfaff's experiences both on and off screen have shaped her identity. Despite the pain of the breakup, she chooses to focus on the valuable moments and lessons learned throughout their time together. "Ik zie onze scheiding dan ook niet als een mislukking. Alleen al die twee prachtige kinderen hebben alles de moeite waard gemaakt," she explained, reinforcing her positive outlook.
Pfaff's approach to healing has been proactive. "Op momenten dat ik als een patattenzak in de zetel wou zitten, belde ik naar mijn zussen of naar vrienden," she recalled, highlighting the importance of support networks during tough times. For her, sharing feelings with family has provided necessary comfort and perspective.
Looking back, Pfaff recalls how their relationship blossomed during the filming of the reality show, De Pfaffs. "Soms was Nicolas degene die mij meetrok, op andere momenten duwde ik hem de deur uit. Plots sta je daar alleen, tussen al dat volk, en besef je: de enige weg is vooruit," she said, illustrating the reality of stepping back from what had once seemed familiar.
Even with the end of her marriage, Pfaff is learning to embrace life anew. She describes the divorce not simply as the end of her relationship but as the beginning of self-discovery and autonomy. "Het is ook een vrijgeleide om jezelf eindelijk nog eens op de voorgrond te plaatsen," she remarked, expressing her desire to rediscover herself beyond being defined as merely a partner or mother.
Pfaff's sons, now 18 and 20, are starting to carve out their identities, creating space for her to do the same. "Ik moet ze ook een beetje loslaten opdat ze hun eigen leven kunnen uitbouwen," she stated, acknowledging the importance of both her sons and herself branching out individually.
Emphasizing her routine as a source of support, Pfaff integrates her love for her Rhodesian ridgeback, Sky, who encourages her to take daily walks, helping her connect with nature and herself. "Ik vertel dat beest alles. Al een geluk dat hij het niet kan navertellen," she laughed, underscoring the healing power of animals and the outdoors.
Pfaff has also taken steps to challenge herself. After years away from modeling, she recently walked the runway again. "Dat voelde zo ongemakkelijk, en tegelijk zo leuk," she reflected, expressing both apprehension and excitement at stepping back onto the catwalk.
Going forward, Pfaff is optimistic about her future. She has plans to explore new opportunities, particularly within the media, as she approaches her 50th birthday with renewed vigor. "Ik wil laten zien dat ik meer ben dan een partner of een mama," she asserted, determined to reclaim her identity and passions.
Through trials and tribulations, Debby Pfaff remains resilient, focused on the positives and cherishing the memories of her past as she steps boldly toward the future. The lessons learned along the way only strengthen her belief: embracing change is not only necessary but can be the foundation for growth and happiness.