The Chrisleys are making their big TV comeback with a brand new series, The Chrisleys: Back to Reality.
According to E! News, Todd and Julie Chrisley were convicted back in 2019 on multiple fraud charges and sentenced to a combined 19 years in prison. They ended up serving just over two years before being pardoned by President Trump in May 2025. During that time, their daughter Savannah became one of their biggest advocates, constantly speaking out about their case.
If you thought you’d seen it all from the Chrisleys, think again. The Chrisleys: Back to Reality dives deeper than ever with never before seen footage, emotional jail call audio, and a look at how prison time completely changed the family dynamic. From money struggles and Savannah stepping in as guardian to her brother and niece, to raw moments of resentment, and even Grayson sharing the heartfelt gift his mom gave him before she left. This show is equal parts drama and heart.
You’ll also see plenty of familiar faces, including Todd, Julie, Savannah, Chase, Grayson, Chloe, Nanny Faye, and Julie’s parents, Harvey and Pam.
Still on the fence about watching their new show? Here are 5 reasons to watch The Chrisleys: Back to Reality.
1). Watch Never Before Seen Footage
Lifetime’s new series doesn’t hold back, giving fans an unfiltered look at the emotions Todd Chrisley went through before heading to prison on January 16, 2023. The premiere kicks off with a video message he recorded for Savannah, where he breaks down in tears, apologizing and telling her just how proud he is.
“Savannah, I don’t even know where to start this video, because I feel like there’s really nothing that’s ever unsaid between us. But I did want to leave you a video. No dad could ever be more proud of their daughter than I am of you. And I’m sorry. I truly am,” Todd says through tears.
Along with this never before seen footage, fans will also hear audio from Todd and Julie’s jail calls.
2). Fans Will Get A Look At How The Chrisley’s Finances Have Really Been Holding Up Since Todd And Julie’s Prison Sentences.
Julie’s parents get real about how the prison sentence turned their lives upside down. They admit they had to return to work just to cover the townhouse bills, which eventually pushed them to move in with their grandson, Chase and his girlfriend. A situation Julie says has left her feeling embarrassed.
3). A Closer Look At The Family Drama
Between attending White House events and conferences, Savannah has been fighting hard behind the scenes to get her parents released. At the same time, she’s been juggling full custody of her younger brother Grayson and her niece Chloe, admitting she’s had to do it all on her own.
The series dives deep into the family drama. In an emotional prison call, Julie shares her biggest worry while she’s away.
“My greatest worry while being in prison is that of my children. I worry that they’re okay. I worry that they’re getting along, because I’m not there to wrangle everyone and diffuse a situation. I mean, Chase and Savannah have fought since they were teenagers, and that worries me because I feel like the divide is just going to continue to get bigger and bigger.”
Savannah doesn’t hold back either, opening up about the resentment she feels toward her brother Chase for not stepping up.
“Chase and I are definitely on rocky terms because over the past two and a half years he has not helped me at all. I mean when it comes to the kids, financially, mom and dad. He has not picked up a single ounce of slack and he’s been given ample opportunity to do so.”
The show also touches on Chloe’s backstory, revealing how Todd and Julie ended up adopting her after it became clear their oldest son, Kyle, wasn’t able to care for her.
4). Witness The Family’s First Gathering In Over Two Years Since Todd And Julie Went To Prison
Tensions were high at the family gathering, as the Chrisley’s met for dinner for the first time in over two years. When asked if Savannah had any updates regarding the pardon she quickly responded saying there were no updates and bluntly adding “ I wouldn’t tell y’all if I did.”
Later, Savannah explained to producers why she was keeping the details a secret from her family. “You can’t trust that they’ll keep their mouths shut. You can’t trust that they’re not going to say or do something that’s going to put the pardons in jeopardy. And at this point I’m not willing to risk that.
5). A Mix of Drama and Heart
It’s not all drama in the new series. There are some really touching moments too. Grayson, the youngest son of the Chrisley children, admitted to quitting baseball after realizing his mom would no longer be able to cheer him on at games. He also shared his most treasured possession. A teddy bear with a recording of Julie’s voice, which she gave him as a goodbye present before starting her sentence. Grayson chose not to share the audio on camera “ I’m not playing it…I feel like that’s the last private thing I have. I mean we give cameras everything. That’s one thing I wont. That’s one thing the cameras don’t get.”
The Chrisleys: Back to Reality isn’t just another reality TV show comeback. It’s raw, emotional, and gives fans a side of the family they’ve never seen before. From financial struggles and family feuds to heartfelt moments that’ll tug at your heartstrings, this series shows both the mess and the love that keep the Chrisleys together. Whether you’ve been following them for years or you’re just curious about all the drama, this is one comeback you won’t want to miss.
The premiere kicks off tonight, Monday, Sept. 1 at 8 PM EST on Lifetime, with episode two following right after on Tuesday, Sept. 2.
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