Comedian Laura Clery has detailed the painful and financially devastating aspects of her separation and divorce from ex-husband Stephen Hilton in her new memoir, "What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Hotter."
Clery recounts discovering Hilton's alleged infidelity, which she said left her feeling hurt and empathetic rather than personally inadequate. She described confronting him, initially believing they could navigate the challenge together. However, she alleges that later that night, Hilton hurled insults at her and claimed she was controlling, before she discovered he was allegedly at another massage parlor.
Allegations of Threats and Relapse
Clery further alleges that during a family trip, Hilton screamed in front of their children that he intended to harm himself, blaming Clery. She states she called the police, but he presented as unharmed to authorities. The following day, Clery discovered Hilton had posted about the incident on social media. She also claims she later learned Hilton had relapsed in his drug addiction around this time, leading her to realize their relationship needed to end and a separation was necessary.
Financial and Legal Battles
The separation evolved into years of legal disputes and financial hardship, according to Clery. She described continuing mediation for too long due to fear of letting go of her creative partner and a desire to help Hilton, but noted that "You can’t pay your water bill with good intentions." She claims this cost her years and significant financial resources.
Clery stated that during their marriage, Hilton managed their finances. She recounted a moment when her water was shut off in their $3 million home, a situation that served as a stark realization of her financial vulnerability. "Having my water shut off? Yeah, that was my bottom," she wrote. "But it was a lesson I needed to learn. Look at the d--n bills. Face the scary thing."
Additional allegations in the memoir include Hilton breaking into her home, leading to his arrest, hacking her social media accounts, and launching an online community that she claims portrayed her negatively, further damaging her finances and emotional well-being.
Custody and Hope for the Future
Amidst the separation, Clery faced false allegations of child abuse but was awarded full custody, with Hilton receiving supervised visitation. Clery expressed hope for Hilton's recovery and sobriety, noting that by mid-November, he had reached over 100 days of sobriety. She concluded by stating her guard is up, her boundaries are firm, and she is cautiously moving toward hope.
Hilton has reportedly spoken publicly about his struggles with addiction and mental health since their separation.