Kelly Matthews: Where is the Survivor Now?

Season 2 of Netflix’s ‘Worst Ex Ever’ revisits several disturbing cases, involving heartbreaking murders and domestic abuse. Episode 1, titled ‘Dating the Deadpool Killer,’ explores the double homicide of Kristine Ann Melton and Diane Ruiz by Wade Steven Wilson, who is also known as the Deadpool Killer. The episode also features an in-depth interview with one of Wade’s former girlfriends, Kelly Matthews. During his jury trial, Kelly spoke out publicly to the media, bringing to light Wade’s alleged abuse towards her. The interview further highlights her resilience and how she refused to let one violent chapter define the rest of her life.

Kelly Matthews’ Relationship With Wade Wilson Took a Dark Turn After an Alleged Assault

When Kelly Matthews was 26, she tried her luck with online dating, which led her to meet Wade Steven Wilson. According to her, they hit it off quickly on their first date and soon entered a relationship. Within a few weeks of dating, Wade moved in with her. Reports state that everything was fine until one day, Wade took off with Kelly’s 18-year-old friend and even stole her shotgun. Since he had previous convictions, the officials charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm. By late December 2018, Kelly reportedly lured him to her home, leading to his arrest on that charge. Following that, she bailed him out of prison and once again allowed him to move in with her. As per investigative reports, Wade allegedly told Kelly that he was ready to go to rehab in the Florida Keys.

Wade Wilson

According to Kelly’s statements, while driving to the location, she and Wade got into an argument, and she allegedly got out of the car. She claimed that after Wade tried to run her over, she got into the car. Kelly alleged that after entering the car, he first choked her before cutting off her clothes and tying her hands and feet. As per the records, Kelly claimed that Wade then sexually assaulted her in the backseat of the car. After they reached the Keys, Wade reportedly got out of the car and met with someone else before leaving again. When Kelly rushed to her mother’s home, the latter reportedly called 911 to report the incident. During the investigation, authorities questioned Wade, but he denied any crime.

Wade was ultimately let go after the detective assigned to the case considered that there was no probable cause and no witnesses. As he stood trial for the murders of Kristine Ann Melton and Diane Ruiz, Kelly shared her own story with the press. In media interviews, she detailed the alleged assault incident, stating she had suffered a cut lip and bruising on her neck from the attack. Following her attack, Kelly had reportedly taken to social media platforms to share her experience and speak out against abusive relationships. While speaking about why Kelly wanted to share her story, she stated, “I just want people to know that they can leave, like get help. If I had seen signs and not been so infatuated with him or whatever, you know, I wouldn’t have gone through all that.”

Kelly Matthews Has Found Joy Again Through Her Love For Animals and Creativity

Kelly had always been a passionate animal lover, which led her to start working at a zoo when she was just 19. In her position, she used to train tigers and work with venomous snakes. She even shared that she wrestled alligators for 2 years before finally taking a break. Ultimately, Kelly channeled her love for animals into becoming a dog groomer in July 2016 and continues to work in that role in the Lake Worth, Florida, area. Besides that, she has also been attending dog shows and working with pups. Kelly often shares about several furry friends who are in need of a new home. By February 2025, Kelly also became involved with the ARIC center. In April 2025, she began selling her dog-show apparel, followed by rare-breed and custom-made shirts on Etsy.

Kelly has also been dabbling in creative pursuits, making incredible dinosaur showpieces and selling them online. Furthermore, she has begun testing her photography skills through her wildlife pictures. In March 2026, Kelly assisted a dog show friend by helping them sell some of their art, dog show clothes, and art collectibles. She further shared that she was assisting the friend in raising funds to cover the person’s nursing and other bills. Most recently, in April, Kelly asked for donations and sponsors for a 4-H dog show. Shortly after, she began exploring her entrepreneurial spirit, announcing that she was trying to come up with a new name for her photography identity and venture.

In May 2025, Kelly unfortunately had to rehome her female cockatiel, Cheddar, since she began downsizing to move into an RV. In her personal life, she loves enjoying simple moments like reconnecting with her dog show friends and visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom whenever she gets the chance. Another significant part of her life revolves around her adorable pups and furry kittens. However, Kelly faced a major heartbreak when one of her pups unfortunately passed away in March 2020. Fortunately, she finds solace amid her furry companions. In her free time, Kelly frequently goes on hunting trips and enjoys adventurous activities like kayaking.

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