The somewhat anti-climatic end of VH1's Bret Michaels: Life As I Know It on was that Michaels asked long-time girlfriend, Kristi Gibson, to marry him on December 20, 2010. Her answer? Yes! This ending was hinted at throughout the series, with Michaels continually contemplating a proposal and asking advice of friends and family.
Bret Michaels and Kristi Gibson Were On-Again/Off-Again for Many Years
The proposal came on last night's finale of Michaels latest reality show: Bret Michaels: Life As I Know It, which highlighted his family life with Gibson and their two daughters. Gibson has been with Michaels for 16 years, and they fully admit they have been on again/off again throughout that time. During one of their "off" times, Michaels decided to do Rock of Love, another VH1 reality series where women competed for Michaels' affection.
Rock of Love gained Michaels a new generation of fans, and became one of VH1's most popular shows. It ran for three seasons, beginning in 2007. Michaels went on to compete (and win) Celebrity Apprentice in 2010. He also appeared on Don't Forget the Lyrics. As a life-long Type 1 diabetic, Michaels used both shows to help raise awareness and money for diabetes.
Bret Michaels: Life As I Know It Highlighted Family Life
Michaels and Gibson have dated since 1993, and in that time had two daughters: Raine, 10 years old, and Jorja, 5 years old. Both girls were featured on Bret Michaels: Life As I Know It. Raine came off as the mature and outspoken daughter, while Jorja was the precocious and rule-testing girl. Both girls reflect their father's rock star mentality and outgoing yet humble personality.
On the show, which first aired as a sneak peak on May 31, 2010, Michaels got down on one knee and asked Gibson "to be my wife." In true Michaels' fashion, he added, "Please say yes or the rejection will kill me right now."
Michaels and Gibson Became Closer After His Series of Health Scares
The relationship between Michaels and Gibson changed dramatically this year, especially when he survived a brain hemorrhage in April. In the weeks before that, he had an emergency appendectomy. When Michaels was taken to the hospital for the brain hemorrhage, the outlook seemed bleak. He was asked to say his goodbyes to his daughters and was thought to be near death. However, Michaels made an miraculous recovery.
In the weeks that followed, he suffered a warning stroke, and was later found to have a hole in his heart. Michaels said he realized that through it all, his girlfriend Gibson was right by his side. While Michaels will still perform and appear on television, he also realized that settling down with Gibson would help complete his family.
Sources: U.S. Magazine, "Bret Michaels is Engaged," December 21, 2010. People, "Bret Michaels and Kristi Gibson Are Engaged - Finally!" December 21, 2010.
Cherie Burbach - Cherie Burbach writes about dating, relationships, health, sports, and lifestyle. She's the author of eleven books and ebooks.
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