Hilary Rhoda, the American model who is the ex-wife of NHL player Sean Avery, was caught up in a controversy back in 2016. She and her mother, Marianne Rhoda, were embroiled in a legal battle over financial matters that took a dramatic turn.
Marianne Rhoda, who had previously been sued by her daughter for allegedly mismanaging her finances in 2015, filed a counterclaim seeking $2 million in damages.
The counterclaim alleged that Hilary had breached a contract she had with her mother by failing to repay a loan that was given to her as a gift. Marianne claimed that the loan was intended to help Hilary purchase a home. Marianne alleged that Hilary failed to honor their agreement and instead used the money for other purposes.
In addition to the breach of contract claim, Marianne accused Hilary Rhoda of fraud and defamation. She alleged that her daughter made false statements about her to the media and on social media. Marianne claimed that Hilary's actions had caused her substantial emotional distress and damage to her reputation.
The legal battle between the mother and daughter was controversial, with many speculating about the reasons behind the dispute. While the details of the case remained unclear, it was clear that the Rhoda family was facing a difficult and painful situation.
Sean Avery and Hilary Rhoda first met at a bar
Sean Avery and Hilary Rhoda may have come from vastly different worlds, but they found common ground in a New York City bar in the summer of 2009.
Rhoda, a model from Chevy Chase, Maryland, is represented by IMG Models and has worked with high-profile fashion brands such as Abercrombie and Hollister. She has also graced the pages of Sports Illustrated swimsuit issues, becoming a well-known face in the fashion world.
Avery, on the other hand, made a name for himself on the ice, playing 10 NHL seasons with four teams, including the New York Rangers.
After retiring from hockey, he found a new passion in real estate, buying, rehabilitating, and selling houses in the Hamptons through his company, Weekapaug Groove. He also tried his hand at reality TV, appearing as a contestant on “Dancing With the Stars” in 2014.
Despite their busy schedules, Sean Avery and Hilary Rhoda found time to nurture their relationship. They attended concerts and festivals in England and the United States, including the Bonnaroo Music Festival in Tennessee. And it wasn't long before they decided to take their relationship to the next level.
On October 10, 2015, Avery and Hilary Rhoda tied the knot at the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill, NY. The wedding was a beautiful affair, with family and friends gathering to celebrate the couple's love.