“Time to Move On” — Love After Lockup Fans Encourage Joey to End Relationship with Michael

Latest Developments in Love After Lockup Season 5

The fifth season of Love After Lockup recently released a gripping new episode on March 28, 2025, showcasing emotional reunions as several cast members emerged from prison to reconnect with their loved ones. One of the most notable stories is that of Michael, a 40-year-old man released after serving time for intent to deliver and drug trafficking. Unfortunately, his release has been overshadowed by troubling thoughts he openly shared about potentially relapsing into drug use.

Michael’s Troubling Thoughts Post-Release

Despite the joy of reunion, Michael’s partner, Joey, 48, expressed hope that their relationship would flourish now that Michael is free. Joey had been waiting for years, believing Michael could turn his life around after their significant time apart. Meanwhile, Michael’s initial reaction to his release was marred by frustration upon discovering that his phone number had changed, leaving him distressed about losing contact with old acquaintances, which he felt could lead him back to his previous lifestyle.

“I’m thinking about– f**k, this is so f**ked up, but probably like the first opportunity I can do it [drugs] and not mess anything I have going for me up.”

Fan Reactions and Concerns

The episode sparked a wave of disappointment among fans on social media, particularly on X, who urged Joey to consider ending the relationship. Many expressed skepticism about Michael’s intentions and believed he could soon find himself back behind bars.

A Love After Lockup fan reacts to Joey and Michael's relationship (Image via X/@cammie_bailey)
A Love After Lockup fan reacts to Joey and Michael’s relationship (Image via X/@cammie_bailey)

“Joey needs to move on, he needs to find someone else… this relationship is a bad idea,”a fan wrote.

“Michael is 10 feet from prison and talking about sneaking around to use,”another fan commented.

Michael’s Evening of Reflection

As Michael reflected on their relationship, he acknowledged Joey’s unwavering support, claiming it was unlike anything he had experienced before. Michael, who has faced multiple prison sentences, shared insights about his past struggles with drug use. He recounted his journey, admitting to feeling insecure about his sexuality growing up and the toll that drug dependency took on his personal life.

“Once I started using m*th, it took all of my time, it took all my energy, it took all my attention, and took me away from my family a lot.”

A Complex Emotional Landscape

Despite the strife, Michael believes that Joey is the stabilizing force he has been searching for. He remarked:

“I feel like Joey’s what I’ve been missing my whole life. He is the calm to my madness. He brings me some sanity when I’m going crazy. He’s more than I could’ve asked for.”

However, the reunion quickly turned volatile when Michael expressed discontent over losing his old contacts. While Joey viewed the change as a positive step towards recovery, Michael’s defiance indicated he was still wrestling with temptation. In a private moment, he confessed his cravings, juxtaposing his desire to use drugs against his fear of losing what he feels is the perfect relationship.

Viewers can catch Love After Lockup on HBO Max as the drama unfolds further.

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