US President Donald Trump has announced plans to pardon reality TV couple Todd and Julie Chrisley, stars of “Chrisley Knows Best,” following a high-profile campaign led by their daughter, Savannah Chrisley. The couple, who became household names through their depiction as Atlanta-based real estate moguls, were convicted in 2022 of tax evasion and defrauding community banks of over $36 million. Todd received a 12-year sentence and Julie seven years, both of which were later shortened before this pardon announcement.

Savannah Chrisley has been a vocal advocate for her parents’ release since their incarceration began in January 2023. Her campaign included public appearances, a speech at the Republican National Convention, and a recent interview with Lara Trump, the president’s daughter-in-law, on Fox News. According to Savannah, Trump personally called her to share the news of the pardon as she was entering a store, expressing hope that her parents would be “free and clean” by the next day.

The Chrisleys’ case centered on allegations that they submitted falsified documents to banks to secure millions in loans, which were used to fund a lavish lifestyle of luxury vehicles, designer goods, and expensive real estate. Prosecutors also accused them of using a company to hide income from their TV show to evade a $500,000 tax bill. Their conviction followed a three-week trial that drew widespread media attention and sparked debate about celebrity privilege and the criminal justice system.

Trump’s decision to pardon the Chrisleys comes amid a series of controversial clemency actions for individuals convicted of white-collar crimes. The White House emphasized that the president does not know the couple personally, but acknowledged Savannah’s persistent advocacy and her ties to the Trump family through public events and media appearances. The pardon paperwork is expected to be finalized within 24 hours, allowing Todd and Julie Chrisley to return home and restart their lives.