Teddi Mellencamp has finally addressed the swirling rumors linking her to horse trainer Simon Schroeder. Speaking emotionally during a recent podcast interview, the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum opened up about the personal turmoil she has faced over the past year, including her battle with cancer and the collapse of her marriage.
In her first public comments about the alleged affair, Teddi Mellencamp acknowledged that decisions were made during a vulnerable time. Without confirming or denying a romantic relationship with Schroeder, she admitted that her actions deeply hurt several people—including her family, her friends, and herself.
What Led to the Alleged Affair?
According to Mellencamp, her emotional struggles began long before any rumors started. She revealed feeling “broken, lost, and disconnected” as her marriage with Edwin Arroyave unraveled. At the same time, she was unknowingly battling a serious illness. Frequent headaches and fatigue were later discovered to be symptoms of stage 4 melanoma, which had spread to her brain and lungs.
While the timeline between her health diagnosis and the alleged affair is still unclear, Mellencamp suggested that the chaos in her personal life clouded her judgment. She described it as “a time where I made decisions that were out of character, and not fair to anyone involved.”
Timeline of Events
- Fall 2024: Rumors began to circulate of a close relationship between Teddi and her horse trainer, Simon Schroeder.
- November 2024: Mellencamp filed for divorce from Edwin Arroyave, ending over a decade of marriage.
- February 2025: She was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma after a tumor was discovered during a routine check.
- Mid-2025: Teddi and Edwin paused their divorce proceedings as she began intense medical treatment.
- August 2025: Teddi publicly addresses the rumors in a podcast interview.
Teddi’s Emotional Confession
In her interview, Mellencamp did not shy away from the emotional weight of her experiences. At one point, she tearfully asked, “Did I deserve to get cancer as some kind of punishment?” She clarified that while she doesn’t truly believe in karmic punishment, the question had haunted her.
She emphasized that while she made poor choices, she has grown immensely from the pain. “I hurt people I love. I hurt myself. But I’m trying to be better now—for my kids, for my health, for the future.”
Current Relationship with Edwin Arroyave
Despite the rocky past, Mellencamp and her estranged husband Edwin have found a way to co-exist peacefully. They continue to live under the same roof while focusing on raising their three children: Slate, Cruz, and Dove.
According to Mellencamp, Edwin has been supportive during her cancer treatments, even attending doctor visits and helping manage the family’s schedule. “There’s still love there. Maybe not romantic love anymore, but deep love nonetheless,” she said.
Where Does Simon Schroeder Fit In?
Mellencamp avoided direct references to Simon Schroeder during her interview but alluded to the “speculation” about her relationship with him. She confirmed that they are no longer in contact and that any bond they had was brief and ultimately damaging to both their lives.
She also added, “People make mistakes. It’s what we do after those mistakes that defines us.”
Teddi Mellencamp Today
Now focused on her recovery, Teddi is balancing chemotherapy treatments, family responsibilities, and emotional healing. She’s also stepped back from the public eye, choosing to prioritize her health over media appearances.
Though she has dated briefly since the fallout, she stated that her only current priority is staying alive and being present for her children. “I’ve made peace with the past. Now I’m fighting for my future.”
Closing Thoughts
Teddi Mellencamp’s candid remarks have sparked mixed reactions from fans, but one thing is clear—she is no longer hiding. Her willingness to speak openly about her flaws, her fears, and her fight for survival marks a new chapter in her life.
What’s your take on Teddi’s emotional confession? Share your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned for updates on her journey.