John Schneider opened up about his divorce and kids on Dancing With The Stars last night during an episode which saw him sent home during a dramatic double elimination.
In emotional scenes, he talked about how country music — it was “Country Night” on the show — had become a huge part of his life following his split from Elvira “Elly” Schneider, who filed for divorce in Los Angeles County back in 2014.
He also revealed that the split had caused ruptures in his relationship with his adult children, Leah Schneider, Chasen Joseph Schneider, and Karis Schneider, who it appears sided with their mom.
During his DWTS video package, Schneider said country music provides a light in his life and helps him to stay positive.
Trying to stay calm during filming, he said tearfully: “I’ve been going through a divorce now for four years and it’s awful. The worst part about it is that it’s wedged itself in between my three adult children and myself.
“Nothing I can do except hope one day one of my kids will call me up or show up. I look in the crowd every Monday thinking maybe tonight, maybe tonight.
“If it weren’t for this music and now Dancing with the Stars, I don’t think I can survive it. It gives me great joy at a time where I desperately needed it.
“I’m hoping that I will do my family proud, I’ll do my love over there proud,” Schneider told host Erin Andrews, referencing his girlfriend, Alicia, and added, “and maybe my children will speak to me again.”
After being sent home on Dancing With The Stars, John Schneider took to Twitter, thanking fans for being so supportive of him. Several people reached out saying they were in similar situations, revealing he wasn’t alone.
John you are a great human being. I wish I had my dad or mom that care about me like you do about your children.i was abandoned a day after I was born. My adoptive parents were mean I had all kinds of abuse. When I went to look for my biological mother she closed the door on me.
— Maria Gonzalez (@gators08182009) November 6, 2018
@John_Schneider Hey buddy. I have 3 adult children. I have been through a terrible divorce. You and I are around the same age John. When this is over lets chat. Even if its by email. Believe me. I know hurt. Good luck tonight
— Dean Romano/Producer (@outdoorwildman1) November 6, 2018
Who are John Schneider’s kids?
Schneider’s children generally live relatively private lives. Leah is almost completely out of the spotlight, but has worked behind the scenes as a technician on Project Runway and Project Runway All Stars in the past. Meanwhile Karis had an acting role alongside her father in 2006 movie Collier & Co, as Danielle.
Chasen also works as an actor, landing his first gig in 2005 where he played Greg in the short film Party of the Year. He is best known for playing Joe Hampton in The Secret Life of the American Teenager.
Dancing With The Stars airs Mondays at 8/7c on ABC.