Raymond Santana Reflects On Why His Marriage To Deelishis Didn’t Work
Raymond Santana is opening up about his past marriage to Deelishis, giving fans deeper insight into what really went down between them. During a recent appearance on the All Eyes On E podcast, he didn’t hold back. If you missed our previous coverage on stories involving the Exonerated 5, you can check out our related report here for more context on his journey.
The Harlem native, known for surviving one of the biggest wrongful convictions in modern history, got real about the emotional toll of trying to make a marriage work when both people aren’t evolving at the same pace. During the conversation, he shared, “Who I am and what I stand for, it can’t survive in this space. Then, for me, I had to understand when it was over, it was over. And I think that was the realist thing for me and her, when she came to me and said, ‘It’s hard being your wife. I have to be somebody who I’m not.’”
His words hit heavy, especially for anyone who’s ever tried to hold together a relationship that no longer aligns with where they are mentally, emotionally, or spiritually.
As reported, Raymond filed for divorce from Chandra “Deelishis” Davis back in March 2022 after two years of marriage. Court documents stated that the marriage was “irretrievably broken with no hope of reconciliation.” The two had reportedly been separated since November 7, 2021.
When asked what he meant by Deelishis being someone she wasn’t, the Exonerated Five member explained, “Well, a wife. I’m more traditional. She’s not traditional. I didn’t ask her to make a lot of changes, but it comes to a certain point in your life with maturity that you make those changes on your own.” He continued, “And if I’m still growing and I don’t see you growing, and the kids are growing that are with us, then that doesn’t look right, you’re not a good example.”
That statement right there was layered. On one hand, Raymond is speaking from a place of maturity, recognizing that growth can’t be forced. On the other, he’s calling out the very real disconnect that can happen when partners evolve at different speeds. Many couples in the public eye experience the same struggle, but rare is the moment when we see someone admit it so openly.
He wasn’t dragging her. He wasn’t disrespecting her. He was simply stating that the version of love they tried to build no longer matched who they were becoming. Growth will do that. And sometimes, walking away is the most grown thing you can do.
Inside Raymond Santana’s “Traditional vs. Non-Traditional” Perspective
When Raymond said he’s “more traditional,” it sparked conversation across social media about what that truly means in today’s culture. In his world, rooted in humility, growth, and survival, “traditional” doesn’t sound like control or outdated standards. Instead, it sounds like stability, reciprocity, and peaceful partnership.
He made it clear he didn’t demand drastic changes from Deelishis. Instead, he expected the natural evolution that comes with adulthood and commitment. His exact words: “I didn’t ask her to make a lot of changes, but it comes to a certain point in your life with maturity that you make those changes on your own.” That’s a line many folks felt deep in their chest, because it’s real. Love only works when both people are actively doing the self-work.