Michelle Saniei Lally wants to set the record straight about her split from Jesse Lally.

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About a month after announcing she had filed for divorce, The Valley cast member revealed she was dating “someone amazing.” Although Michelle said she was “really happy” with the new romance, her love-life update was met with criticism and a wave of questions. She touched on the reaction during a recent appearance on When Reality Hits, a podcast series hosted by castmates Brittany Cartwright and Jax Taylor.

Michelle Lally confirms Jesse Lally started dating after their split
“I keep getting DMs, like, ‘How are you already dating? How is that possible?” Michelle said in the April 25 broadcast. “I’m 35 years old. I was more than ready to start dating. I didn’t want to be alone anymore. So absolutely I started dating and I found somebody I really like and we’ve been exclusively seeing each other.”

Michelle explained she and Jesse called it quits in October 2023, shortly after they finished filming The Valley Season 1.

“Since then, we were both free to date and see and do whatever we want,” she continued. “And we both decided to start dating… We’re both dating. I do have a boyfriend, so I’m really happy about that… We are very much aligned. We have the same values, the same hobbies. It’s been very easy. We don’t fight and I’m just so happy all the time.”

Michelle said Jesse also re-entered the dating scene, which has improved their dynamic.

“I’m so much happier and I think he is, too,” she said. “It’s really reflecting on our relationship with each other. I think because he’s happy with somebody else, he’s just a happier person.”

Michelle Lally on co-parenting with her estranged husband, Jesse Lally
The Valley mom admitted the separation was “very difficult” at first, as she and Jesse would be on good terms one day to “hating each other” the next. However, the couple has since managed to keep things cordial in the interest of their 4-year-old daughter, Isabella.

“At the end of the day, we really care about Isabella and I actually am really happy about where we are today,” Michelle said. “Today, we are acting like friends. If he needs anything, he can call me, vice versa. It’s been a really healthy transition.”

Michelle Lally is optimistic about her relationship with Jesse Lally
So, does Michelle think she and Jesse will ever be more than ex-spouses and co-parents?

“He’s the father of my child. He’s always going to be in my life,” she told Brittany. “I totally see us as friends. I think there’s a point, you don’t want to be best friends with your ex, but I think we’ll definitely be able to do Isabella’s birthday with our significant others and just move on.”