Duane Chapman - better known as Dog the Bounty Hunter - has dropped a family bombshell.
The former bail bondsman, famed for his high-stakes exploits on his eponymous reality show, has revealed a previously unknown secret: he has a son, Jon, who he only recently learned existed.
Chapman gained widespread fame for capturing Andrew Luster, the heir to cosmetics giant Max Factor, propelling him into the reality TV spotlight. His successful show ran for eight riveting seasons, documenting his life as a bounty hunter across Hawaii and Colorado.
The revelation of his secret son also shares a poignant significance - his secret son's birthday falls on the same date Chapman lost his late wife, Beth Chapman.
Sharing a post to Instagram on the fourth anniversary of Beth's passing, the reality star revealed that a previously painful day has now turned bittersweet.
Writing to his 700,000+ followers, he said: "For the last four years, this day was a terrible reminder of one of the greatest losses of my life. But God redeemed this day when I discovered my son Jon, who I just met recently, was born on this day.
"So now instead of sorrow, this day has a new meaning. This is my son Jon and his wife Jodi."
In the Instagram post, Chapman unveiled a snapshot of Jon, sporting his father's signature mutton chops, alongside his new wife Jodi. Fashionably attired, Jodi rocked a polka dot top and jeans, while Jon wore a dark blue polo shirt, jeans, and shades similar to his father's iconic style. (Honestly, you can tell the Dog genes are strong - he's the spitting image of his famous father!)
Adding a note of encouragement to his followers, Chapman said: "For anyone who has suffered a terrible loss please know God restores and redeems."
With the introduction of Jon, Chapman's brood extends to a total of 13 children, accumulated from various marriages and relationships throughout his adrenaline-filled life.
Beth tragically lost her battle with throat cancer in 2019 at the young age of 51.
Chapman has since found love again, marrying Francie Frane in a quaint ceremony in September 2021.
Wrapping up his series of big announcements, Chapman hinted at the release of his new book, Nine Lives and Counting. While he didn't specify a launch date, fans will eagerly anticipate the 'coming soon' promise.
Congratulations, Dog! It's wonderful to see you rewarded with happiness.