The Chrisley family made a big splash in 2014 with their hit show Todd Julie Chrisley Knows Best” on USA Network1. They won over fans with their Southern charm and what looked like a fancy lifestyle. Todd and Julie Chrisley became famous, building a reality TV empire. They showed off their huge mansion in Roswell, Georgia1.
But in 2019, their perfect image crumbled. A federal grand jury in Atlanta charged Todd and Julie with tax fraud, conspiracy, and bank fraud2. Their legal issues and downfall grabbed a lot of attention. This story is a fascinating look at how celebrity scandal and family drama can change everything.
Key Takeaways
- Todd and Julie Chrisley were the stars of the hit reality TV series “Chrisley Knows Best” on the USA Network.
- The Chrisley family was known for their lavish lifestyle, including a 30,000-square-foot mansion in Georgia.
- In 2019, the Chrisleys were indicted on charges of tax fraud, conspiracy, and bank fraud, leading to their eventual convictions.
- Todd Chrisley was sentenced to 12 years in prison, while Julie Chrisley received a 7-year sentence, along with 16 months of probation.
- The Chrisley family’s legal troubles and subsequent fall from grace have captivated audiences and become a prominent celebrity scandal.
The Rise of the Chrisley Family Empire
Todd and Julie Chrisley, real estate moguls, have won over fans with their lavish lifestyle and TV fame3. They started in Roswell, Georgia, and grew a big business empire3.
From Humble Beginnings to Reality TV Stardom
Michael Todd Chrisley was born in South Carolina, in a simple setting4. After a rough divorce, he met Julie (née Hughes), a bank worker3. They got married in 1996 and had their first child, Chase, soon after3.
Todd’s Early Life and Meeting Julie
Just a few years after Chase was born, Grayson joined the family in May 20063. Todd and Julie started Chrisley Asset Management and moved to Roswell, Georgia, with their growing family3.
The Chrisleys went from simple beginnings to reality TV stars, showing their hard work and grit.
The Launch of “Chrisley Knows Best”
In 2013, the USA Network started “Chrisley Knows Best” as part of its reality TV lineup5. It quickly became a hit, getting a second season before the first ended5. The show followed the Chrisley family’s life in their huge mansion in Roswell, Georgia5.
USA Network’s Hit Reality Show
The show starred Todd Chrisley, his wife Julie, and their kids Kyle, Lindsie, Chase, Savannah, Grayson, and Chloe5. It was made by Maverick Television and All3Media America. Critics gave it mixed reviews, as seen on Metacritic5.
The Chrisley Family’s Lavish Lifestyle on Display
People loved watching Todd Chrisley’s strict parenting and the family’s funny conflicts5. Their life was filled with luxury cars, designer clothes, and their big Roswell mansion5. The show led to plans for spin-offs, but “According to Chrisley” was canceled due to low ratings5.
“Chrisley Knows Best” showed the Chrisley family’s unique and rich life, keeping viewers hooked for years.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Seasons of “Chrisley Knows Best” | 105 |
| Total Episodes | 2045 |
| Network | USA Network5 |
| Guilty of Fraud and Tax Evasion | Todd Chrisley and Julie Chrisley6 |
| Todd Chrisley’s Sentence | 12 years in prison6 |
| Julie Chrisley’s Sentence | 7 years in prison6 |
todd julie chrisley: Expanding the Brand
Todd and Julie Chrisley, stars of “Chrisley Knows Best,” turned their family’s success into a media empire. After the show’s 2014 debut, USA Network started to grow the “Chrisley” brand across NBCUniversal platforms7.
Spinoffs, Podcasts, and Business Ventures
In 2017, Todd got his own late-night show, “According to Chrisley.” It showed fans what it’s like to live with the family. Julie also started a cooking web series, “What’s Cooking With Julie Chrisley,” on the USA Network website7.
Then, E! brought out “Growing Up Chrisley” in 2018, focusing on Savannah and Chase’s journey. In May 2022, E! also gave the greenlight to “Love Limo,” a dating series hosted by Todd Chrisley himself7.
These spinoffs, podcasts, and ventures helped the Chrisleys grow their brand. They became one of the top reality TV families7.
| Chrisley Ventures | Details |
|---|---|
| “According to Chrisley” | Todd Chrisley-hosted late-night series on USA Network |
| “What’s Cooking With Julie Chrisley” | Cooking web series hosted by Julie Chrisley on USA Network website |
| “Growing Up Chrisley” | Spinoff series on E! following Savannah and Chase Chrisley |
| “Love Limo” | Dating series hosted and executive produced by Todd Chrisley on E! |
The Chrisleys have grown their “Chrisley” brand with spinoffs, podcasts, and ventures. They’ve become a top reality TV family7.
Legal Troubles and Indictments
Todd and Julie Chrisley from “Chrisley Knows Best” have faced legal issues. In 2019, a Atlanta federal grand jury charged them with tax evasion, conspiracy, and wire fraud8.
Tax Evasion and Bank Fraud Charges
The Chrisleys tried to hide their reality TV earnings from the IRS. They gave faked bank and financial statements to get loans for personal use8. They also gave a faked credit report and bank statements to rent a California home8.
Allegations of Financial Crimes
Their accountant, Peter Tarantino, faced charges too. He was accused of conspiracy to defraud the United States and filing false tax returns9. The trial in Atlanta lasted three weeks. The Chrisleys were found guilty of several financial crimes9. Todd was also found guilty of wire fraud and obstruction of justice9.
| Defendant | Charges | Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Todd Chrisley | Conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States, tax fraud, wire fraud, wire fraud, obstruction of justice | 12 years in prison, 16 months probation9 |
| Julie Chrisley | Conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States, tax fraud, wire fraud, obstruction of justice | 7 years in prison, 16 months probation9 |
| Peter Tarantino | Conspiracy to defraud the United States, willfully filing false tax returns | 36 months in prison9 |
Their sentences were later reduced. Todd’s release date is January 22, 2033, and Julie’s is October 19, 20288. The GDR cleared them of state tax evasion after a two-year probe8.
“The Chrisleys had a net liability of less than $77,000 in overdue taxes for just one year of incorrect filing.”
The Chrisley Trial and Convictions
In a major trial in Georgia, Todd and Julie Chrisley were found guilty on all counts after a three-week trial10. The prosecution said the Chrisleys made false claims to banks and took out more than $30 million they couldn’t pay back. They claimed a former employee tricked them, but the court didn’t buy it11.
The Chrisleys were found guilty of tax fraud and bank fraud. Todd got 12 years in prison, and Julie got 7 years10. They must pay $17.2 million back for the fake loans they got, which added up to $36 million1011.
Their old accountant, Peter Tarantino, got 3 years in prison and a $35,000 fine for helping with the fraud1011.
| Defendant | Sentence | Restitution |
|---|---|---|
| Todd Chrisley | 12 years in prison | $17.2 million |
| Julie Chrisley | 7 years in prison | $17.2 million |
| Peter Tarantino | 3 years in prison, $35,000 fine | – |
The Chrisleys’ fancy lifestyle and big talk on Chrisley Knows Best helped prove their guilt10. Their financial troubles before, like a 2012 bankruptcy and unpaid taxes since 2009, made people doubt their money habits10.
“The Chrisley’s fraudulently obtained $36 million in bank loans and managed to walk away from over $20 million in debt through a bankruptcy filing in 2012.”
The Chrisleys’ convictions are a big drop for the once-successful reality TV family. Their sentence and legal fights keep grabbing headlines and make people wonder about the impact of financial crimes on celebrities11.
Prison Sentences and Canceled Shows
In a shocking turn of events, reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley were sentenced to a combined 19 years in federal prison in November 202212. Todd Chrisley got a 10-year sentence and is now at the Federal Prison Camp in Pensacola, Florida12. Julie Chrisley, a breast cancer survivor, got 5 years and is at the Federal Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky13.
Their sentencing came after they were found guilty on all counts, including conspiracy to commit bank fraud, tax fraud, and wire fraud, in a three-week trial in June 202212. Their accountant, Peter Tarantino, got 3 years in prison12.
Because of the Chrisleys’ legal issues, USA Network canceled their hit shows “Chrisley Knows Best” and “Growing Up Chrisley.”13 But, they will still air a shortened tenth season of “Chrisley Knows Best” in 202313.
“Savannah Chrisley has expressed hope and prayers for her mother’s early release from prison, and she is even considering a career in law to help her family’s situation.”
The Chrisley family’s legal troubles have hit their reality TV empire hard, which once had over 2 million viewers13. But, the Chrisleys’ resilience and determination to overcome these challenges will be closely watched by their fans.
Todd and Julie’s Separate Prison Terms
Todd and Julie Chrisley will serve their prison terms separately, despite being sentenced together13. Todd Chrisley’s 10-year sentence was reduced from the original 12 years, and Julie Chrisley’s 5-year sentence was reduced from 7 years12.
The Chrisleys were also ordered to pay $17.8 million in restitution12. They recently won a $1 million federal lawsuit against the investigator who they claimed was involved in misconduct during the investigation12.
As the Chrisley family goes through this tough time, their fans and supporters are following their journey. They’re eager to see how they will come out of these trials and tribulations1312.
Life After Prison: The Chrisley Family’s Future
When the Chrisley family faced hard times, Savannah, the oldest, became the guardian for her brother Grayson and sister Chloe14. Now 26, she talks about the tough job of taking care of her siblings while missing her parents14.
The Chrisley family stays strong and together despite their legal issues. Todd and Julie Chrisley are fighting their convictions, hoping for a positive outcome14. Savannah shares her concerns about her parents’ harsh prison life, highlighting the struggles they go through14.
Savannah’s Role as Legal Guardian
After Todd and Julie were sentenced, Savannah took on the big responsibility of caring for Grayson, 17, and Chloe, 1114. She talks about the emotional and practical challenges of this role, making sure her siblings are supported during this hard time.
Appealing the Convictions
The Chrisley family is fighting for justice, with their lawyer saying the appeal is being taken seriously14. Savannah is hopeful about the appeal in April, which could lead to her parents’ release15.
The Chrisley family stays united, supporting Todd and Julie through their prison sentences15. Fans and supporters are also backing them up, showing their support during this tough time16.
The Chrisley family’s future looks promising, thanks to their strong bond and support for each other. With Savannah’s dedication and the family’s appeal efforts, they are looking forward to a better future141615.
| Family Member | Prison Sentence | Release Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Todd Chrisley | 12 years in prison, 16 months probation | Pending appeal |
| Julie Chrisley | 7 years in prison, 16 months probation | Potential early release by 2025 |
| Savannah Chrisley | Legal guardian of Grayson and Chloe | Supporting family during parents’ incarceration |
The Legacy of “Chrisley Knows Best”
“Chrisley Knows Best” was a big hit for the USA Network, drawing 1.8 million viewers. It became the network’s top original series17. The show showed the Chrisley family’s rich life and Todd’s strict parenting. This caught the eye of many and made a big mark on reality TV and Southern culture17.
Impact on Reality TV and Southern Culture
Even with legal issues that led to its end, the Chrisley family left a lasting impression on reality TV17. Their life in the South was shown in a way that was both exciting and talked about a lot17.
Todd and Julie Chrisley’s legal battles didn’t change their impact on reality TV and Southern culture18. Their prison time was cut down to 10 and 5 years on appeal18. Their daughter, Savannah Chrisley, has spoken out in support of her parents18.
The Chrisley family’s story, full of ups and downs, has made a big impact on reality TV and how we see Southern culture19. Their big personalities and the stories of “Chrisley Knows Best” will keep touching people, making the Chrisleys famous reality TV stars19.
“The Chrisley family’s journey, marked by both success and setbacks, has left an indelible mark on the reality TV genre and the perception of Southern culture.”
| Sentence | Reference |
|---|---|
| Todd Chrisley and Julie Chrisley received their prison sentences for tax evasion and bank fraud. | 17 |
| Julie’s sentencing was vacated due to a miscalculation that attributed the whole bank fraud scheme to her. | 17 |
| Todd and accountant Peter Tarantino’s convictions were upheld. | 17 |
| The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals could not find sufficient evidence of Julie’s involvement before 2007. | 17 |
| Julie and Todd’s original prison sentences were reduced from seven to five years and twelve to ten years, respectively. | 17 |
| Savannah Chrisley, their daughter, has become an advocate for her parents and expressed hope for Julie’s earlier release. | 17 |
| Todd and Julie received a $1 million settlement but Todd was ordered to pay $755,000 in a defamation lawsuit. | 17 |
| Julie Chrisley, age 51, is currently serving a reduced five-year prison sentence in Lexington, Kentucky for financial crimes. | 18 |
| Her husband, Todd Chrisley, age 54, is also serving a reduced 10-year sentence in Federal Prison Camp Pensacola in Florida for the same crimes. | 18 |
| The couple first reported to prison on January 17, 2023. | 18 |
| Todd and Julie Chrisley were indicted in August 2019 for 12 counts of bank and wire fraud, tax evasion, and conspiracy. | 18 |
| The couple was cleared of their state tax evasion charge in Georgia in October 2019 but faced federal charges for evading federal taxes. | 18 |
| After a trial that began in May 2022, the Chrisleys were sentenced in November 2022 to a combined 19 years in prison. | 18 |
| Despite appealing the case, both Todd and Julie reported to prison on January 2023. | 18 |
| Todd and Julie Chrisley were found guilty of bank and tax fraud in 2022. | 19 |
| Todd was sentenced to a ten-year prison term which was reduced from 12 years. | 19 |
| Julie received a five-year sentence, reduced from seven years. | 19 |
| The appeal is aimed at disputing accusations and demanding a new trial on the majority of the charges. | 19 |
| Todd aims to acquit himself on two tax-related counts in the upcoming appeal hearing. | 19 |
Conclusion
The story of20213> Todd and Julie Chrisley is both fascinating and sad. They became famous on “Chrisley Knows Best” but faced serious legal issues. They were found guilty of bank fraud and tax evasion.
Their life of luxury and their big personalities won over many fans. But, their legal problems led to the end of their shows and jail time for them.
Now, the Chrisley family is trying to move on after prison. Their story will always be remembered for its impact on reality TV and Southern culture. Their legal fights, including Julie’s reduced sentence and appeals, have kept everyone interested.
This story teaches us that even the most successful can face serious consequences. The Chrisleys’ journey will continue to influence reality TV and how we see the American dream.
FAQ
Who are Todd and Julie Chrisley?
Todd and Julie Chrisley were stars of the hit show “Chrisley Knows Best” on USA Network. They were famous for their fancy lifestyle and Todd’s strict parenting. Their family’s drama added a comedic touch to the show.
What were the Chrisleys charged with?
In 2019, Todd and Julie Chrisley faced serious charges. They were accused of tax evasion and bank fraud. They allegedly made fake bank statements to get loans and used the money for personal use.
What were the outcomes of the Chrisley’s trial and sentencing?
Todd Chrisley got 12 years in prison, and Julie Chrisley got 7 years. They also got 16 months of probation each. Their trial led to the end of their shows on USA Network.
How has the Chrisley family been coping since the sentencing?
Todd and Julie Chrisley are now in prison, and their daughter Savannah looks after their younger kids, Grayson and Chloe. They’re fighting their convictions, and Savannah talks about the hard times they’re facing.
What is the legacy of “Chrisley Knows Best” and its impact on reality TV and Southern culture?
“Chrisley Knows Best” was a big hit, showing off the Chrisley family’s fancy life and big personalities. Even after legal issues made the show end, the Chrisleys left a mark on reality TV and Southern culture. Their story still fascinates many.
Source Links
- 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
- 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
- Todd and Julie Chrisley’s fall from grace: The inside story – https://nypost.com/article/todd-and-julie-chrisleys-fall-from-grace-the-inside-story/
- The rise and fall of the Chrisleys, the latest reality stars to go to prison – https://www.washingtonpost.com/arts-entertainment/2023/01/18/todd-julie-chrisley-prison/
- Chrisley Knows Best – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrisley_Knows_Best
- Bankruptcy, fame and prison: The rise and fall of Todd and Julie Chrisley | CNN – https://www.cnn.com/2022/12/30/entertainment/todd-chrisley-julie-chrisley-timeline/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/
- 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
- Convictions of reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley upheld by Atlanta-based appeals court – https://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta-news/todd-and-julie-chrisleys-convictions-upheld-on-appeal/TOK6FY4JHZGUHII3N5RHXZVUCA/
- Why Todd and Julie Chrisley are in prison – https://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta-news/why-todd-and-julie-chrisley-are-in-prison/ULXFVFTZ25HKJD4ZA7D7V7265E/
- Julie Chrisley’s Prison Sentence Thrown Out, Judges Order Resentencing – https://www.etonline.com/julie-chrisleys-prison-sentence-in-bank-fraud-and-tax-evasion-case-thrown-out-judges-order-227888
- ‘Chrisley Knows Best’ reality stars: Todd & Julie have new prison release dates. What we know – https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/2023/11/27/todd-chrisley-julie-florida-prison-tax-evasion-knows-best-early-release/71666933007/
- 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
- Savannah Chrisley Wants Todd, Julie Chrisley Out of Prison by ‘Summer’ – https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/savannah-chrisley-wants-todd-julie-chrisley-out-of-prison-by-summer/
- Julie Chrisley Says She Needs Help To “Adjust” After Jail – https://collider.com/julie-chrisley-after-jail/
- Julie Chrisley’s prison sentence vacated: ‘Chrisley Knows Best’ star awaits new sentencing – https://decider.com/2024/06/25/julie-chrisley-prison-sentence-vacated-chrisley-knows-best/
- Julie Chrisley’s Letters from Prison Show Heartbreaking Reality of Her Separation from Todd: ‘Miss’ Him ‘So Much It Hurts’ – https://ca.style.yahoo.com/julie-chrisleys-letters-prison-show-015529649.html
- Todd & Julie Chrisley Get Big News in Bid to Be Freed From Prison – IMDb – https://www.imdb.com/news/ni64540888/
- 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/
