Courtney Thorne-Smith Files for Divorce from Roger Fishman After 18 Years

Courtney Thorne-Smith, renowned for her role as Alison Parker on the iconic television series 'Melrose Place,' has filed for divorce from her husband, Roger Fishman, after nearly two decades of marriage. The actress submitted the divorce paperwork earlier this week, citing irreconcilable differences, a common legal term that indicates an inability to resolve conflicts within the marriage.

According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Thorne-Smith and Fishman have been living separately since September 1, 2021, indicating that the couple had effectively ended their relationship well before the official filing. They married on New Year's Day in 2007 and share a son, Jacob Emerson Fishman, who is set to turn 18 next year. In her filing, Thorne-Smith has requested joint legal and physical custody of their son, signaling a collaborative approach to co-parenting as Jacob approaches adulthood.

Notably, Thorne-Smith has also indicated her desire to waive the possibility of spousal support for both herself and Fishman, which is an uncommon stipulation in divorce cases involving lengthy marriages. This marks Thorne-Smith's second marriage; she was previously married to geneticist Andrew Conrad in 2000, although that union ended in divorce just a year later.

Thorne-Smith, who gained fame in the 1990s for her role in 'Melrose Place,' has continued to work in television, appearing in popular sitcoms such as 'Ally McBeal,' 'According to Jim,' and 'Two and a Half Men.' Her career spans several decades and showcases her versatility as an actress. The actress's publicist has yet to respond to requests for comments regarding the divorce.

The decision to file for divorce comes as a significant moment for Thorne-Smith, who has maintained a relatively private family life despite her public persona. The couple’s lengthy separation period suggests that both parties may have already begun to navigate life apart well in advance of the legal proceedings. As they move forward, the implications for their family dynamics and individual careers remain to be seen, particularly as their son transitions into adulthood.

In an industry often scrutinized for its high-profile relationships, Thorne-Smith's situation reflects the complexities of balancing personal life with public expectations. Observers may look to this case as an example of how celebrity couples manage their relationships amid the pressures of fame and the demands of parenting. As the divorce proceedings unfold, it will be essential to watch how both parties publicly and privately adapt to their new circumstances and what this means for their respective futures in the entertainment industry.