Shocking revelation: Home Improvement Star speaks out on domestic violence arrest, reveals untold story

Zachery Ty Bryan. AdMedia Newscom/MEGA

“I believe that when obstacles hinder your true potential, your intended path, and God's plan for you,” said Zachery Ty Bryan, 41, in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. The Home Improvement actor, who made headlines three years ago for his domestic violence arrest, reflected on the importance of self-reflection and taking accountability.

According to Bryan, the incident in October 2020 involving his partner Johnnie Faye Cartwright was exaggerated when it occurred. He explained that they had a heated argument, with loud screaming that was audible to everyone due to the thin walls in their townhome. Bryan claimed that the physical altercation between them was not as severe as portrayed before his arrest. He believed that the police charged him with multiple offenses to pressure him into pleading guilty. Although he could have fought the charges, he decided against it to avoid additional stress and drama.

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In October 2020, the former child star was taken into custody for reportedly strangling Cartwright. In February 2021, we received confirmation that Bryan had accepted a plea deal in the domestic violence case. As part of the agreement, he pleaded guilty to charges of menacing and fourth-degree assault.

Bryan was placed on a three-year probation and mandated to participate in the violence intervention program, Bridges2Safety. Additionally, he was prohibited from having any contact with the victim and had six other charges, including strangulation and coercion, dropped as part of the agreement.

Furthermore, the court ordered Bryan to abstain from purchasing, possessing, or consuming alcoholic beverages. He was also instructed to avoid establishments primarily focused on selling or serving alcohol. In 2020, Bryan was arrested for a DUI and pleaded guilty. As a result, he received a sentence of five years probation and was required to complete an 18-month alcohol program due to his prior history of DUI arrests.

Bryan addressed his legal troubles, describing them as a valuable "learning experience" and expressing gratitude for it. He acknowledged that many people around the world go through similar situations with their partners. Despite the arrest, Bryan and Cartwright decided to stay together and took their relationship to the next level by getting engaged in November 2021. In May, they became parents to twins. Additionally, Bryan has four children from his previous marriage to Carly Matros.

If you or someone you know is in a situation of domestic violence, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential assistance and support.