Lisa Welchel Reveals Divorce Secret

Lisa Welchel, best known for her role in the 80’s sitcomThe Facts of Lifeand more recently as a competitor onSurvivor: Philippines, toldPEOPLEin an exclusive interview that she and her husband Steve Cauble put an end to their 24-year marriage in March of this year — a fact that she’s kept well-hidden from everyone but her closest friends.

“The divorce was final on March 1, and [I] went out to be on Survivor on March 10,” commented Whelchel. “Going out toSurvivorwas helpful for me, to divert my attention and not just dwell on the loss.”

Welchel, 49, and Cauble, 61, have three adult children, and from all accounts – including the former couple’s decision to attend theSurvivorpremiere together – the divorce was amicable and the two remain close.

Added Welchel: “We will always be friends, and we will always be family, too.”