ABC News / YouTube

Todd and Julie Chrisley are reflecting on the pain and perspective they gained behind bars, sharing how God met them in their darkest moments—even when they were angry and questioning His plans.

In a candid new interview with ABC News, the former reality TV stars opened up about their emotional journey through prison and the pardon that ultimately set them free.

“I was angry at God,” Todd admitted, recalling his first night in federal prison. “When I went to bed that night and the lights went out, I cried myself to sleep, and I said, ‘God, why are you allowing this?'”

Julie, who missed birthdays, holidays, and graduations with her children during her time behind bars, became emotional as she shared the heartbreak of missing out on milestones she can never get back.

“You don’t realize the things you take for granted until they’re gone,” Todd said. “Your freedom, your ability to go to church, go out to eat, stay in your bed all day—when you have those things back, it’s a blessing.”

The couple, who were convicted in 2022 on charges of bank fraud and tax evasion, began serving their sentences separately in January 2023. At one point, they were facing a combined 19 years in prison but consistently maintained their innocence.

The pair’s sentences were reduced in September 2023, and a judge later vacated Julie’s conviction due to insufficient evidence. Last month, President Donald Trump pardoned the couple.

Todd said the experience deeply changed him. “If it didn’t change you, then you’re not human,” he shared.

Despite the pardon, Todd emphasized that he remains focused on clearing their names. “Even though this pardon happened, I was still convicted of something that I did not do. It could be you, it could be any of you, and somewhere in this room, someone has had a family member who has been affected by the system,” he said.

“I don’t have an apology to give you or anyone else over the money that I’ve made,” he added.

While the Chrisleys’ time behind bars tested their faith, Todd’s reflections reveal a journey of wrestling with God, learning to see blessings in small freedoms, and holding onto hope for justice.

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