Kris Humphries and Kim Kardashian’s whirlwind romance and short-lived marriage remains one of the most talked-about celebrity unions in pop culture history. Their union was as high-profile as it was brief—lasting just 72 days before Kim filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. But while their love story ended almost as quickly as it began, what followed for Humphries is a surprising turn few could have predicted.
The couple first met in late 2010, and by early 2011, their relationship had become tabloid fodder. At the time, Kim Kardashian gushed about the then-NBA star in an interview with Us Weekly, saying, “He just has a really good heart. There has to be trust and honesty and chemistry. If you don’t have any of those, it’s never going to work.”
Indeed, the chemistry seemed intense. By May 2011, Kris had popped the question with a $2 million, 20.5-carat diamond ring, and the couple married in a lavish televised ceremony in August of that year. But less than three months later, Kim Kardashian filed for divorce. The abrupt end to their marriage sparked widespread speculation, with some critics accusing the union of being staged for publicity. Humphries later said he was blindsided by the split and felt exploited by the Kardashian media empire.
Despite the personal and public upheaval that followed, Humphries managed to refocus and rebuild his life—far away from the Hollywood spotlight. Having earned an estimated $66 million over the course of his 13-year NBA career, he didn’t need to rush into another high-profile job. Instead, he made a quiet pivot to the food and business world—where he is now thriving.
In 2022, Kris and his family became franchisees for the rapidly growing fast-casual chain Dave’s Hot Chicken. The brand, known for its spicy Nashville-style fried chicken, has been expanding quickly across the United States. Humphries and his family have plans to open around 18 locations of the franchise in Minnesota, where he was raised. It’s a full-circle moment for the athlete-turned-entrepreneur, who has made his post-basketball life about family, business, and community.
From NBA to Hot Chicken: Kris Humphries’ Surprising Post-Kim Kardashian Journey
“Super excited to bring Dave’s Hot Chicken to Minnesota with my family,” he announced on Instagram. “This is the best chicken ever! Get ready, Minnesota.”
Humphries explained that he was drawn to the brand’s product quality, unique identity, and growth potential. “Dave’s Hot Chicken checks all the boxes for the kind of restaurant brand we want to be involved with, and has all the potential for massive growth,” he added.
This isn’t his first foray into the food industry. Even while still playing basketball, Humphries was investing in restaurant franchises, previously owning several Five Guys burger outlets and branches of the health-conscious fast-food chain Crisp & Green. His approach to post-NBA life has been both strategic and grounded—focused on sustainable income, local business development, and staying connected to his roots.
While his name may forever be associated with a very public breakup, Humphries has steadily built a life that’s firmly his own. He’s largely stepped back from media attention, rarely gives interviews, and prefers to let his business ventures do the talking. For fans expecting scandal or drama, his story has taken a refreshingly mature turn: from reality TV chaos to real-world entrepreneurship.
In many ways, Humphries’ story reflects the broader trend of athletes planning ahead for life after sports—investing in franchises, real estate, or startups that provide both income and purpose after the limelight fades. But few have made the switch as seamlessly, or as quietly, as he has.
Though Kim Kardashian has gone on to build a billion-dollar empire in fashion, beauty, and entertainment, her former husband seems content running a different kind of empire—one built on spicy chicken sandwiches and community values. And judging by the continued success of Dave’s Hot Chicken, the future looks deliciously bright for Kris Humphries.
Source- realitytvshrine
