Joe Exotic’s husband confirms split from Tiger King star and announces divorce: ‘ This wasn’t an easy decision to make’

Joe Exotic’s husband Dillon Passage has revealed the pair are ending their marriage.

The Tiger King star revealed the news on social media, just hours after Joe, 57, posted an emotional rant about his estranged partner, 25.

Taking to Instagram on Friday, Dillon shared with fans: ‘In November of 2017 I met Joe who was there for me during a difficult time in my life. After just 9 short months he was arrested and, for the last two and a half years, we have been apart. I’ve always stood by his side and will continue to always love and support him.

‘When Tiger King was released on Netflix a year ago, my life was thrown into a world of media and public attention. Something that was completely foreign to me. I felt as if I had a microscope constantly looming over me which was and still is incredibly uncomfortable.’

He continued: ‘With everyone pulling me in different directions, I found my manager @jefftduncan who, despite Joe’s recent social media tirades against, has always acted in my best interest and helped me navigate the complexity of the new situation I found myself in.

‘I don’t feel obligated to explain to the world what occurs in my personal life and, despite Joe taking to social media to air every grievance, I don’t feel it’s the healthiest way to handle private matters between two people. I therefore don’t intend to post any more on this subject.’

The Tiger King star continued: ‘To answer the main question the public wants to know, yes, Joe and I are seeking a divorce. This wasn’t an easy decision to make but Joe and I both understand that this situation isn’t fair to either of us. It’s something that neither of us were expecting but we are going to take it day by day. We are on good terms still and I hope it can stay that way. I will continue to have Joe in my life and do my best to support him while he undergoes further legal battles to better his situation.

‘Like I said in my last post, be careful of the assumptions you place on others. Everyone carries a challenge or burden you may not see. This is as true for me as it may be for you.’

Joe has been updating fans regularly online as he serves a 22-year prison sentence for animal cruelty and the murder-for-hire plot of Carole Baskin.

Dillon has been spending time with reality stars including Too Hot To Handle’s Harry Jowsey, who spoke up in support of his friend after the announcement.

Harry commented: ‘I know it’s not easy but I’m glad you are doing what’s right.’

The Netflix star then added: ‘You don’t owe anyone an explanation but I’m proud of you for being transparent on this.’

Tiger King is available now on Netflix.

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