"Facts of Life" star Lisa Whelchel on divorce

Lisa Whelchel, who will perhaps forever be known to us as Blair from "The Facts of Life," is now living the single life.

I just never thought it would happen to me," Whelchel told People of the dissolution of her marriage to Steve Cauble. "It was painful to realize it wasn't going to work out.
Whelchel and Cauble were involved in Christian ministry after "The Facts of Life" wrapped up in 1988, and have three children together. Although they're no longer married, they'll "always be friends," Whelchel said.
Just nine days after the divorce was final on March 1, Whelchel set off for her work on "Survivor," a career move that was right on time.
Going out to 'Survivor' was helpful for me," the 49-year-old actress said, "to divert my attention and not just dwell on the loss./cnn