Erika Jayne, the dazzling star of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, is no stranger to drama, but her latest romantic chapter is turning heads for all the right reasons. Amid the ongoing saga of her high-profile divorce from Tom Girardi, Erika has found a spark with an unexpected new man: John “Shrek” McPhee, a retired US Army Special Operations Sergeant Major with a rugged charm and a surprising Hollywood connection.
Erika recently spilled the tea on her budding relationship with McPhee during an episode of her podcast, Diamonds in the Rough. The couple’s chemistry ignited after just a couple of dates, culminating in a cozy manicure-pedicure outing in Los Angeles. “It was really nice,” Erika shared, her voice tinged with excitement. “I feel comfortable holding this person’s hand, and he’s a nice man.”
Unfortunately, their private moment was interrupted by paparazzi, who snapped photos of the pair in July 2025, thrusting their budding romance into the spotlight. “What was a nice, private thing I was having for myself was ruined,” Erika lamented. Still, she couldn’t hide her affection for McPhee, describing him as “a really nice person” and admitting she cherishes their time together. For a woman who hasn’t been publicly linked to anyone in five years, this connection feels like a breath of fresh air.
At first glance, Erika and McPhee might seem like an unlikely duo. She’s the glamorous pop star and reality TV queen, while he’s a decorated military veteran who once served as Heidi Montag’s bodyguard. But as the saying goes, the heart wants what it wants. Their shared experiences, including navigating the complexities of divorce, have forged a unique bond. While Erika’s divorce from Girardi remains tangled in legal limbo, McPhee filed for divorce from his ex, Jennifer Blanton, in February 2025.
This common ground seems to have brought them closer, offering a foundation of understanding as they explore their connection. Erika, known for her bold personality and unapologetic flair, seems smitten with McPhee’s grounded demeanor and quiet strength.
Despite her happiness with McPhee, Erika remains firm about keeping things light. The RHOBH star has been vocal about her reluctance to walk down the aisle again, a stance shaped by her ongoing divorce battle. “I don’t think I’ll ever be legally married to anyone ever again,” she said on her podcast, echoing sentiments she’s shared before. However, she’s open to the idea of a meaningful companion, adding, “The idea of having someone in your life is a nice idea.” Could McPhee be that special someone?
As Erika continues to navigate the fallout from her divorce, her relationship with McPhee offers a glimmer of joy. Fans of the reality star are buzzing about this surprising new chapter, eager to see where this romance leads. Will “Shrek” prove to be Erika’s happily-ever-after, or is this just a fleeting moment of bliss? For now, Erika is savoring the present, hand-in-hand with a man who’s captured her heart in a way few saw coming.