Todd Chrisley Julie Chrisley shone as stars on the hit USA Network show “Chrisley Knows Best” since 2014. This series drew in fans with its look into the Chrisley family’s rich life and their Southern charm1. As the show grew with spin-offs like “Growing Up Chrisley” and “According to Chrisley,” so did their fame and wealth, reaching viewers all over the U.S.
But their TV success was marred by legal issues in 2019. They faced charges of tax evasion and bank fraud1. This led to a big court case that ended with Todd and Julie Chrisley going to prison.
Key Takeaways
- Todd and Julie Chrisley were the stars of the popular USA Network reality series “Chrisley Knows Best,” which followed their wealthy family in the Atlanta suburbs.
- The Chrisley empire expanded with spinoffs and additional projects, further showcasing their Southern charm and lavish lifestyle.
- In 2019, the Chrisleys were indicted on federal charges of tax evasion and bank fraud, leading to a high-profile legal battle.
- Despite their legal troubles, the Chrisley family shows continued to air until their sentencing to prison.
- The Chrisley’s’ prison sentences and the ongoing legal proceedings have captivated the public’s attention, shedding light on the downfall of a once-thriving reality TV dynasty.
The Rise of “Chrisley Knows Best”
Before becoming famous on reality TV, Todd Chrisley was a self-made real estate tycoon from South Carolina. He started from humble beginnings. He met his wife, Julie, at a local bank, and they got married in 1996.2 The couple built their business, Chrisley Asset Management, and moved to the wealthy Atlanta suburb of Roswell2.
From Humble Beginnings to Reality TV Fame
In 2013, the USA Network picked up “Chrisley Knows Best.” This show showed the Chrisley family’s lavish lifestyle, like their 30,000-square-foot mansion, luxury cars, and designer clothes2. It was a big hit, leading to a second season before the first ended3. The family’s fame grew, moving to Nashville and getting spinoff shows like “Growing Up Chrisley” and “Love Limo.”3
The Chrisley Family: A Glimpse into Their Lavish Lifestyle
“Chrisley Knows Best,” featuring Todd and Julie Chrisley, started in 2014 on the USA Network and became popular.2 They lived in a 30,000-square-foot mansion near Atlanta before moving to a $3.4 million home in Nashville.2 They earned $6 million from the show “Chrisley Knows Best” from 2013 to 2016.2
“We’re the Chrisleys, and we’re very wealthy. We’re very blessed.” – Todd Chrisley
todd chrisley julie chrisley: The Faces of Southern Charm
Todd Chrisley and Julie Chrisley are the stars of Southern charm and family values on TV4. Their big personalities and fancy lifestyle caught the eye of many on “Chrisley Knows Best,” which started in 20144. They showed off their rich life with designer clothes, fancy cars, and a huge mansion in Roswell, Georgia4.
The show followed the Chrisley family’s big moments, disagreements, and Todd’s unique parenting style5. It also showed their wealth as real estate moguls5. With 1.8 million viewers per episode, “Chrisley Knows Best” became a hit on the USA Network4.
Their fancy lifestyle and big personalities made them famous. The show “Growing Up Chrisley,” which started in 2018, brought the younger Chrisleys into the spotlight4.
| Key Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Reality Show Debut | “Chrisley Knows Best” premiered in 2014 on USA Network4. |
| Viewership | The show averaged 1.8 million total viewers per episode, making it the most-watched current original series on the USA Network4. |
| Family Mansion | The Chrisley family’s mansion where the show was filmed is 30,000 square feet4. |
| Spinoff Series | In 2018, a spinoff series called “Growing Up Chrisley” was launched on E! following Savannah and Chase4. |
The Chrisleys have become the face of Southern charm on TV5. They show their family values, wealth, and the drama of their fancy lifestyle5. As Bravo TV stars, they symbolize the Southern family’s success and chasing the American dream5.
“The Chrisleys have captivated audiences with their larger-than-life personalities and lavish lifestyle, making them the quintessential embodiment of Southern charm and family values on reality television.”
Legal Troubles: Tax Evasion and Fraud Charges
Todd Chrisley, 56, and his wife Julie Chrisley, 51, faced a big legal fight. In 2019, they were charged with tax evasion, conspiracy, and bank fraud6. They were accused of a scheme to get over $30 million in loans they didn’t deserve. They used this money to live a fancy life6.
Federal Indictment and Alleged Financial Crimes
The couple made fake bank statements to get loans. Then, they used the money for personal stuff6. In August 2019, a federal grand jury indicted them on 12 counts7.
The Trial and Conviction
In June 2022, Todd and Julie Chrisley were found guilty on all charges6. Their accountant, Peter Tarantino, was also guilty of making false tax returns for their company6. They were found guilty of getting over $30 million in loans they didn’t deserve6. They also got caught evading taxes and trying to trick the IRS6. Julie was also found guilty of wire fraud and trying to block justice6. The court told them to pay back money later8.
| Name | Sentence | Facility | Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Todd Chrisley | 12 years | Pensacola, Florida | October 2032 |
| Julie Chrisley | 7 years | Lexington, Kentucky | July 2028 |
| Peter Tarantino | 3 years | Montgomery, Alabama | September next year |
The Chrisleys faced charges of bank fraud, tax evasion, conspiracy, wire fraud, and obstruction of justice8. Todd got 12 years in prison, Julie got 7 years8. Their accountant, Peter Tarantino, got 36 months7.
Life Behind Bars: Prison Sentences for the Chrisleys
In November 2022, Todd and Julie Chrisley faced serious legal trouble. Todd got 12 years in federal prison, and Julie got 7 years9. They were also told to pay $17.8 million in restitution9.
Todd went to the Federal Prison Camp in Pensacola, Florida. Julie went to the Federal Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky, because she had breast cancer10. Their daughter Savannah now looks after their teenage son, Grayson, and their granddaughter, Chloe.
Savannah talks about the tough times her family is going through. She mentions “inhumane” conditions in the prisons10. But, the Bureau of Prisons says all inmates have unlimited water and good air quality at the prisons10.
Then, in September 2023, the Chrisleys got a break – Todd’s sentence was cut by 2 years, and Julie’s by 14 months11. In November 2023, the appeals court let the Chrisleys speak in court, which could help them9.
The Chrisley family is going through a tough time. Everyone is waiting to see what happens next in their legal fight and their TV career11.
The Chrisley Empire: Spinoffs and Expansions
“Chrisley Knows Best” became a hit, and the USA Network wanted more from the Chrisley family. They launched “Growing Up Chrisley” in 2018. This show followed Savannah and Chase Chrisley as they moved from Nashville to Los Angeles12.
The Chrisleys didn’t stop there. In 2022, the E! Network brought out “Love Limo.” Todd Chrisley hosted and produced this dating show12. These shows made the Chrisleys a big name in reality TV, even with the legal issues they faced12.
From “Growing Up Chrisley” to “Love Limo”
The Chrisley family kept growing on TV with “Growing Up Chrisley.”12 Todd Chrisley also started “Love Limo,” a dating show that showed off his humor and charm12.
These moves showed the Chrisleys could draw in viewers and grow their TV presence, despite legal problems12. Their spinoffs proved they’re great at making content that people love, across different networks12.
Savannah Chrisley: Carrying the Family Legacy
While her parents, Todd and Julie Chrisley, face legal issues, Savannah Chrisley looks after her brother Grayson and niece Chloe13. She, a former Miss Tennessee Teen USA winner, keeps the Chrisley family’s spirit alive.
Savannah also started her own cosmetics company13. And, she surprised everyone by joining “The Masked Singer” in 2024 as the “Afghan Hound”13.
The legal issues have hit the Chrisley family hard, affecting Savannah deeply14. Grayson and Chloe see therapists weekly, dealing with their parents’ absence13.
Despite the hard times, Savannah is dedicated to the Chrisley legacy. She supports her parents on social media, keeping everyone updated14. Her strength and determination show the Chrisleys’ unity and resilience.
“The responsibility of taking care of Todd and Julie Chrisley’s youngest kids was left to their daughter Savannah Chrisley.”13
Savannah Chrisley’s role as a caretaker, entrepreneur, and advocate is vital as the Chrisley family deals with legal issues. Her dedication and spirit inspire many. We’re all curious about what the future holds for this strong young woman.
The Appeal Process: A Glimmer of Hope
The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals has given Julie Chrisley a chance with its decision. They vacated her fraud sentence and ordered a new sentencing15. The court found not enough evidence to blame Julie for losses before 2007. But, it did say she was involved in fraud from 2007 on16.
This news has brought hope to the Chrisley family. Their lawyers are happy that Julie‘s sentence was overturned. They are sad that Todd‘s appeal failed, though.
The Chrisley family’s legal team plans to fight the couple’s convictions. They believe the case started with an illegal search. They are still hopeful for good news ahead16.
Through it all, the Chrisley family has kept their faith in the legal process. This shows their strength and their wish to prove their innocence.
Julie Chrisley’s Sentence Vacated: What’s Next?
The Eleventh Circuit Court’s decision to clear Julie Chrisley‘s name is a new start for the Chrisley family. They are now working to challenge the couple’s convictions. They aim for a better outcome for Julie.
As the Chrisleys move forward, their faith in the law and their family’s spirit inspire their fans. The court’s decision has brought hope. It has made the Chrisley family more determined to prove their innocence and move on with their lives.
“We are pleased with the Eleventh Circuit’s decision and the opportunity for re-sentencing. We will now focus our efforts on challenging the couple’s convictions based on the illegal search that started this case. We remain hopeful for positive news in the future.”
– The Chrisley family’s legal counsel1516
The Future of the Chrisley Family
As Todd Chrisley and Julie Chrisley face legal battles in prison, their family’s future is unsure. Savannah Chrisley now looks after her brother, Grayson Chrisley, and niece, Chloe Chrisley. She keeps fans updated on her parents’ well-being and their prison life17.
The Chrisley family holds onto a
“continuing faith in goodness” and believes “everything’s going to work out okay in the end for them.”
With theappeals process ongoing, thefuture of the Chrisleys and their TV empire is still up in the air18.
Their legal issues come from a bank fraud scheme. They got $36 million in loans over six years. Todd Chrisley was found guilty of tax evasion and other fraud charges. Julie Chrisley was found guilty of wire fraud and obstruction of justice19.
The couple got 12 and 7 years in prison, and had to pay $17.2 million in restitution19. But, a recent court decision changed Julie Chrisley’s sentence, and she’ll be resentenced18.
The Chrisley family’s continued faith and fan support will be key to their family’s future. The outcome of their appeals and resentencing will greatly affect their story17.
Conclusion
The story of Todd Chrisley and Julie Chrisley, from their hit show “Chrisley Knows Best” to their legal issues, has gripped the nation. Their journey has seen both highs and lows20.
They faced serious charges of tax evasion and bank fraud. Now, they’re going through the appeals process. Julie Chrisley’s sentence was even overturned because of lack of evidence2021. Despite this, their fans keep supporting them, hoping for a better future.
This story is a lesson for us all. It shows that even the most successful can face big challenges. As the Chrisleys move forward, everyone is watching to see what happens next2021.
FAQ
Who are Todd Chrisley and Julie Chrisley?
Todd and Julie Chrisley starred in the hit show “Chrisley Knows Best” on the USA Network. The show showed their life in the Atlanta suburbs. It covered their rich lifestyle, family life, and Todd’s strict parenting.
What happened to the Chrisleys?
In 2019, the Chrisleys faced serious legal trouble, accused of tax evasion and bank fraud. By June 2022, they were found guilty on all counts. Todd got 12 years in prison, and Julie got 7 years.
How did the Chrisleys become famous?
Todd Chrisley made his fortune in real estate before the show. Their big house, fancy cars, and designer clothes made “Chrisley Knows Best” a hit. This led to more TV shows and projects for the Chrisleys.
What were the Chrisleys accused of?
They were accused of a scheme to get over $30 million in fake loans. They used these loans for personal spending. The government said they lied on bank statements to get the loans.
What is the current status of the Chrisley family?
Todd and Julie are in prison, but their daughter Savannah looks after their son Grayson and granddaughter Chloe. Savannah talks about the tough times her family is going through.
Is there any hope for the Chrisley family?
There’s hope after the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals reviewed Julie’s case. They ordered her sentence to be re-evaluated. The family’s lawyers are now fighting to clear their names, focusing on the illegal search that started the case.
Source Links
- Julie and Todd Chrisley prison update one year later: Couple’s appeal process, release dates – https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/2024/01/17/todd-chrisley-knows-best-julie-prison-sentence-florida-kentucky/72253023007/
- A complete timeline of Todd and Julie Chrisley’s rise and fall, from reality TV fame to 19-year sentence for bank fraud and tax evasion – https://www.businessinsider.com/todd-julie-chrisley-tax-evasion-fraud-arrest-charges-conviction-sentencing-appeal-timeline
- Chrisley Knows Best – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrisley_Knows_Best
- How did Julie and Todd Chrisley end up in prison? Here’s a timeline of the reality TV stars’ fraud case – https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2023-08-03/julie-todd-chrisley-prison-timeline-fraud-case
- How did Julie and Todd Chrisley end up in prison? Here’s a timeline of the reality TV stars’ fraud case – https://ca.movies.yahoo.com/did-julie-todd-chrisley-end-220609500.html
- Children of reality TV’s Chrisleys hope court hearing is step toward bringing convicted parents home – https://apnews.com/article/julie-todd-chrisley-fraud-tax-evasion-appeal-8f76505e15cceca1c9747087ae01bec4
- Everything to Know About the $30 Million Fraud Trial Against Todd and Julie Chrisley – https://people.com/tv/chrisley-family-fraud-trial-everything-to-know/
- Television personalities sentenced to years in federal prison for fraud and tax evasion – https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga/pr/television-personalities-sentenced-years-federal-prison-fraud-and-tax-evasion
- Savannah Chrisley shares update on mom Julie Chrisley after her sentence was overturned – https://www.today.com/popculture/news/why-are-todd-julie-chrisley-in-prison-rcna104167
- Todd and Julie Chrisley’s living conditions in prison are a ‘nightmare’ | CNN – https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/28/entertainment/todd-julie-chrisley-prison-conditions/index.html
- Are Todd and Julie Chrisley still in Florida prisons and will they get out early? – https://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/2023/11/10/todd-julie-chrisley-release-florida-prison-early/71500608007/
- Todd and Julie Chrisley Hopeful as They Vow to Appeal Prison Sentences – https://thenerdstash.com/todd-and-julie-chrisley-hopeful-as-they-vow-to-appeal-prison-sentences/
- Savannah Chrisley Tells All: Todd and Julie Chrisley’s Final Goodbyes With Their Kids Revealed Before Prison Stint – https://okmagazine.com/p/savannah-chrisley-todd-julie-chrisleys-final-goodbyes-kids-prison/
- Savannah Chrisley Reflects on the ‘Profound Impact’ Dad Todd’s Absence Has Had on Her Family amid His Imprisonment – https://people.com/savannah-chrisley-on-profound-impact-of-dad-todd-absence-amid-his-imprisonment-8664762
- Unlocked with Savannah Chrisley on Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/lv/podcast/unlocked-with-savannah-chrisley/id1649201369
- Julie Chrisley – News – IMDb – https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6449438/news/
- Savannah Chrisley talks about the fate of her parents Todd and Julie – https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/savannah-chrisley-hope-parents-future-raising-teen-brother/story?id=109405945
- Julie Chrisley’s Family Is Hopeful After Prison Sentence Is Thrown Out – https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/julie-chrisleys-family-is-hopeful-after-prison-sentence-is-thrown-out/
- Why Todd and Julie Chrisley are in prison – https://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta-news/why-todd-and-julie-chrisley-are-in-prison/ULXFVFTZ25HKJD4ZA7D7V7265E/
- Reality TV star Julie Chrisley to be resentenced in bank fraud and tax evasion case, appeals court rules – https://ew.com/julie-chrisley-to-be-resentenced-in-bank-fraud-tax-evasion-case-8668664
- What will the Julie Chrisley resentencing look like? – https://versustexas.com/blog/julie-chrisley-resentencing/
