Johanna Griggs Reflects on Love, Growth, and Resilience After Heartbreak and Divorce

Johanna Griggs, the beloved host of Better Homes and Gardens, has opened up about her journey of love and personal growth following her tumultuous split from former husband Gary Sweet. The 51-year-old TV personality, who is now happily married to Todd Huggins, reflects on her past and how it has shaped her present as she approaches her 20th wedding anniversary with Huggins. Griggs, who was married to actor Gary Sweet from 1995 to 1999, has long been candid about the emotional toll of their highly publicized divorce. At the time of their split, she felt like a "failure," grappling with the societal pressures and personal expectations that often accompany the end of a marriage. “If a marriage ends, you have the feeling that you are such a failure in that aspect," she shared. Yet, in a remarkable turn, she now views her past struggles as essential life lessons. “The biggest opportunities in my life, the biggest lessons I have learned, and the biggest pivot points have come from my failures,” she reflected. Griggs credits her current happiness largely to her relationship with Todd, whom she describes as "pretty exceptional." The couple was introduced by mutual friends, and Johanna has often expressed gratitude for their bond, wishing they had met earlier in life. Her admiration for Todd is evident, as she celebrates him in public tributes, calling him "the most wonderful father, friend, Pepe, and North Star in our lives." Together, they have built a loving family unit, which includes Griggs's two adult sons from her marriage to Sweet, Jesse and Joe. The boys have grown into “two of the funniest, friendliest, most attentive” young men, according to their proud mother. Johanna’s family life has been a source of strength, especially during tough times, including Todd's recent health challenges after undergoing surgery for skin cancer. Despite the hurdles she faced in her mid-twenties, including being let go from her job while on maternity leave and returning to live with her parents with two toddlers, Johanna's resilience has propelled her forward. A former champion swimmer, she became the first Australian woman to break the 30-second barrier for the 50-meter backstroke and went on to enjoy a successful media career. After joining Channel Seven, she became a familiar face in homes across Australia, hosting various shows, including the long-running Better Homes and Gardens. As the show celebrates its 30th anniversary, Johanna acknowledges the privilege of being part of a program that has touched the lives of many Australians. "You realize what a privilege it is to work on a show that has been part of people's lives for generations," she remarked. Meanwhile, her ex-husband Gary Sweet continues to thrive in his career, currently promoting his latest film, "Shelly," and enjoying a long-term relationship with girlfriend Nadia Dyall, with whom he shares two young children. Johanna Griggs’s story is one of resilience, love, and the transformative power of embracing failure. Her journey from heartbreak to happiness serves as an inspiration, reminding us that sometimes, the greatest gifts come from our most challenging experiences.