Even Marita admits she initially judged him by his looks. “I was scared at first,” she said, “but once I got to know him, I realized he has a huge heart.” Marita has three children from previous relationships and says Richard has stepped up as a devoted father figure. He attends school events, participates in the PTA, and is actively involved in his kids’ lives.

Though some people still criticize his appearance, others defend him, pointing out that he is loving, present, and supportive. Richard says the negativity doesn’t affect what matters most: “Our kids are happy. We’re happy. That’s all that matters.”