Exclusive: Eva Marcille Reacts to Reuniting With Husband Michael Sterling After Divorce
Eva Marcille, alongside Jussie Smollett, recently sat down with ET’s Brice Sander to discuss their intense experience on *Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test*, airing September 25 on Fox.
The pair shared how they supported each other through grueling challenges in the Moroccan desert, while Eva revealed heartfelt details about her journey back to husband Michael Sterling post-divorce. Meanwhile, Jussie provided a glimpse into his wedding planning, marking a new chapter in his life.
Marcille explained her motivation for joining *Special Forces*, emphasizing the rare chance to test her limits purely for personal growth, not fame or money. “When in life do you get an opportunity to truly push yourself to the limits?” she remarked. The show paired her with Smollett, a longtime friend, in a raw, unglamorous setting.
Their bond deepened as they faced survival challenges, leaning on each other during moments of doubt. “Every single day, I was like, ‘Eva, I’m quitting tomorrow,’” Smollett admitted, but their mutual encouragement kept them going. A poignant moment came during a water challenge when Smollett calmed Marcille by reminding her of her daughter Marley, highlighting her strength as a mother.
Smollett, marking his first unscripted project, expressed excitement about reintroducing himself authentically after a tumultuous period. “It’s exciting to move on to the next chapter of life,” he said, praising Marcille’s strength as an inspiration. Their friendship, previously limited to industry interactions, grew into a profound connection through shared hardship.
The actor also celebrated a recent engagement, revealing a romantic proposal in Florence, initially disguised as a birthday trip. “You just know,” he said of recognizing his partner as “the one,” citing Marcille and Sterling’s reunion as an example of true love.
Marcille’s reconciliation with Sterling after their divorce was a focal point. “Life’s a journey,” she reflected, likening it to the show’s challenges. She affirmed her original intent to be with him “forever,” a commitment that endured through ups and downs.
“He is my forever and always will be,” she declared, expressing joy at having landed in this renewed place with him. Her children, including pre-teen Marley, will watch her tackle *Special Forces*, and she anticipates their competitive family spirit cheering her on, though her youngest worries about her water challenges.
Beyond personal revelations, Marcille addressed Bravo fans’ hopes for *Morocco* airing, confirming it won’t due to industry and legal constraints, though she enjoyed revisiting the country for *Special Forces*. She expressed enthusiasm for a potential *Girls Trip* revival, naming desired co-stars like Dorinda Medley and Vicki Gunvalson.
As for Smollett’s wedding, Marcille humorously confirmed she’ll attend as Sterling’s date, eagerly awaiting a fancy, faraway celebration. Both stars, having survived *Special Forces*, now embrace life’s next chapters—Marcille with renewed love, and Smollett with upcoming nuptials and an album release on September 30. Their journey reflects resilience, connection, and the power of second chances.