‘Forbidden Love’: New TLC Show Depicts Couples Struggling With Issues Beyond the Mortal Realm

‘Forbidden Love’ Couples Try to Convince Their Families Amid Their Religious Differences

ROCHESTER, NEW YORK: TLC recently introduced a surprising new show ‘Forbidden Love’ about four couples who each try to find happiness against very long odds, as they all follow different religions. The cultural and religious differences threatened their romance as they tried their best to overcome it.

The final season featured Ashley and Mohammad Qasem, Laurie Palermo and Eli Hayempour, Kris and Lensa, Laurie Palermo and Eli Hayempour, and Lindsay and Elmer. The couples on the TLC show must also convince their families to finally have a happy marriage.

However, the three couples are still together and are navigating their lives while enjoying each other’s cultures. Here’s a look at the relationship status of all four couples.



Ashley and Mohammed Qasem

‘Forbidden Love’ Season 1 Couple Ashley and Mohammad Qasem have been married for 3 years and have a 2-year-old daughter. Ashley is a Christian who has fallen in love with a devout Muslim, Mohammad. Ashley impulsively moved from Jefferson City, Missouri to Rochester, New York to live with and marry Mohammad, who moved to the U.S. from Saudi Arabia.

Ashley’s family had a hard time accepting her relationship as they were worried about her safety. In addition, Ashley’s sisters even called Mohammad a terrorist behind his back. Mohammad’s family is also not a big fan of Ashley. His twin brother suggested that Ashley has a bad temper.

Mohammad gave Ashley an ultimatum that if they could not convince their family, they would have to separate. However, things did not get worse and their family members eventually accepted their marriage, but not with all their heart. They still have doubts about Ashley and Mohammad’s marriage, which may disappear with time.

Ashley and Mohammed Qasem (@tlc)
Ashley and Mohammad Qasem have a daughter together (@tlc)

Kris and Lensa

The premiere episode of the TLC show gave a glimpse of Kris and Lensa. The couple did not survive their family drama over religious differences. Lensa is Muslim and has already been through two failed arranged marriages. Meanwhile, Kris is the son of a Pentecostal preacher who often speaks in tongues.

Kris had to face his father’s judgment for being in love with Lensa. However, their relationship didn’t seem to be able to withstand much pressure as they both wanted to convert each other to their religion, which was the biggest problem in their paradise.

Kris and Lensa (@tlc)
Kris and Lensa’s family drama put their relationship in jeopardy (@tlc)

Lindsay and Elmer

‘Forbidden Love’ Season 1 Couple Elmer and Lindsay are married and expecting their first child, but once again their families oppose their choice. Elmer left his Amish community in Ohio to marry an “Englishwoman” named Lindsey. She is pregnant with their first child.

Elmer had a hard time adjusting to modern life when he moved in with Lindsay. Elmer’s family has surprisingly shunned him since he married Lindsay. Although they still live happily together, they have hit a bump. Elmer was introduced to the internet, which caused problems in their marriage after Lindsay found out he was watching adult content.

Lindsay and Elmer (@tlc)
Lindsay and Elmer are still together (@tlc)

Laurie Palermo and Eli Hayempour

Season 1 star Laurie Palermo of ‘Forbidden Love’ struggled to accept Eli Hayempour, which jeopardized their marriage. Eli is an Orthodox Jew and devoted to his faith. Meanwhile, Laurie still needs some time to accept religious practices. Although Laurie was raised in the Catholic Church, she stopped practicing spirituality after her father’s death.

Laurie, however, converted to Eli’s Jewish faith after their wedding, but now seems to regret it. She quickly realized that the transition would not be easy, as she had to give up aesthetic things like clothing, changing her hair, and more. She is still juggling giving up her favorite things for love, until she announces that it is over.

Laurie Palermo and Eli Hayempour (@tlc)
Laurie Palermo and Eli Hayempour are still together (@tlc)

Season 1 of ‘Forbidden Love’ airs Sundays at 10pm Eastern Time on TLC.

You May Also Like

More From Author