Michael Ilesanmi Clarifies Misconceptions About His GoFundMe Campaign for Legal Support

Michael Ilesanmi from 90 Day Fiancé addresses the controversy surrounding his GoFundMe campaign, which raised over $50,000 for legal fees after leaving Angela Deem due to alleged abuse. Despite criticism for exceeding his initial fundraising goal, Michael assures supporters that the funds are being used appropriately for his legal battles.
SummaryMichael Ilesanmi, a star from 90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After?, revealed the conclusion of his GoFundMe campaign, which raised over $50,000 to aid his legal battle after leaving Angela Deem due to alleged abuse. Initially requesting $25,000, Michael faced backlash for continuing the fundraiser past this amount. Despite accusations from Angela and others of misusing the funds, Michael assured supporters that the money was for his legal needs, including hiring an attorney for his divorce and residency case. He has since closed the GoFundMe and plans to continue engaging with fans through social media and a forthcoming YouTube channel.

90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After? star Michael Ilesanmi has finally disclosed the outcome of his GoFundMe campaign, which successfully raised over $50,000. Michael fled Angela Deem’s residence in February 2024, following his arrival in the United States in December 2023. He cited alleged physical and mental abuse as the reasons for his departure. Currently residing in Texas, Michael required financial assistance for legal fees after discovering Angela’s intentions to file for an annulment. Initially, Michael requested $25,000 from fans, but he faced criticism for appearing avaricious when he chose not to close the fundraiser until it amassed $52,157.

Michael, known from 90 Day Fiancé, faced accusations of exploiting his fans’ hard-earned money by launching a GoFundMe for $25,000 and continuing to accept contributions even after the amount exceeded $50,000.

In a video update, Michael announced that he had finally “closed” the GoFundMe. He began by addressing his “family,” expressing gratitude to all who contributed to his campaign. Michael reassured them that the funds would be directed towards the “right cause” and thanked them for their support in his legal endeavor. He mentioned that, although the GoFundMe was no longer active, fans could continue to show their support through his social media platforms. Additionally, Michael revealed plans to launch a YouTube channel soon. He concluded the video with an optimistic note, stating, “Remember, better is not good enough; the best is yet to come.”

Implications of Michael Ilesanmi’s Fundraiser Success on His Legal Proceedings

Michael Allocates Funds Appropriately

Initially, Michael requested $25,000 but revised the amount following backlash from viewers. He explained his intention to hire a costly attorney after Angela sought to annul their four-year marriage. Angela took to TikTok, urging America to wake up, and accused Michael of scamming his supporters. She encouraged her followers to donate to causes such as sick children, mothers, or veterans instead. As Michael’s fundraiser grew, Angela brazenly claimed half ownership of everything in Michael’s name, including the GoFundMe funds, due to their ongoing marriage.

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Angela also enlisted fellow cast members to spread false rumors about Michael misusing the funds for ulterior purposes. An image of Michael beside a Mercedes-Benz circulated online, with Loren Brovarnik and Scott Wern suggesting he used the GoFundMe money to purchase the luxury vehicle. Michael clarified that the car belonged to a friend. He has employed Andrea M. Johnson of Vayman & Teitelbaum in Georgia to represent him. Her expertise in immigration and family law aligns with Michael’s needs.

Our Perspective on Michael Ilesanmi’s Fundraiser Achievement

The Purpose Behind Michael’s Fundraising Efforts

Michael is optimistic about finalizing his divorce from Angela and securing his legal residency in the U.S. He wants to reassure fans that he has no intentions of misleading them financially. The sole reason the 90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After? star has been portrayed as deceitful is due to his departure from Angela after arriving in America. Nonetheless, Michael deserves happiness and has garnered support from individuals who have never met him in person. The funds from the fundraiser serve as a foundational step as he embarks on creating a new chapter as a “Paradise man.”

90 Day Fiancé: Before The 90 Days airs Sundays at 8 p.m. EDT on TLC.

Source: Michael Ilesanmi/Instagram

90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After?

  • Reality-TV

90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After? follows couples from '90 Day Fiancé' as they continue to navigate their lives together post-marriage, addressing challenges and triumphs that come with cross-cultural relationships and adjusting to new expectations.

Release Date
September 11, 2016
Seasons
8
Franchise(s)
90 Day Fiancé
Cast
Elizabeth Potthast, Andrei Castravet, Angela Deem, Paola Mayfield, Russ Mayfield, Michael Ilesanmi, Chantel Everett, Pedro Jimeno