Shivangi Sinha
TLC’s ‘90 Day Fiancé’ has long followed the emotional journeys of international couples navigating love, culture, and the K-1 visa process. Over the years, it has featured pairs facing real-life challenges on their way to marriage. In Season 11, the spotlight was on Shawn Finch and Alliya de Batista, whose path to the altar was anything but smooth. Their stark personality differences, frequent disagreements, and conflicting priorities raised serious questions about whether they were truly compatible for a lasting relationship.
Shawn and Alliya Faced Some Trouble on Their Wedding Day
Shawn Finch and Alliya de Batista’s relationship began in March 2020 when they matched on a dating app. At the time, Alliya was still navigating her gender identity, but over time, she embraced her true self and began her transition. Their relationship was first introduced to viewers during season 3 of ‘90 Day Fiancé: Love In Paradise.’ When they reunited in Spain after being apart for eight months, what stood out was Shawn’s willingness to support and accept Alliya’s true self, even as he admitted to struggling with lingering emotions tied to her past identity. Eventually, Shawn proposed, and Alliya accepted. However, their path to the altar wasn’t without disagreements, particularly over a prenuptial agreement that Shawn insisted on.
Although she wasn’t enthusiastic about the idea, Alliya agreed to it for her partner’s peace of mind. Their wedding day, however, highlighted some of the tensions between them. Shawn had meticulously planned everything for a 5 pm start, but Alliya didn’t arrive until nearly 6:50 pm. This caused considerable strain, especially since Shawn’s mother, Jeanne, who had injured her leg a few minutes before the ceremony, had been waiting for hours with her leg propped up on a chair. Despite the delayed start and a fair amount of visible tension, including a remark from Shawn in his vows about Alliya’s tardiness that made guests uncomfortable, the ceremony did go on. The events of the day seemed to indicate potential cracks in their relationship, but by the end of the season, the two were officially married.
Shawn and Alliya Are Deeply in Love With Each Other
Shawn Finch and Alliya de Batista are still happily married, and their relationship appears to be thriving despite their many differences. At 62 and 26, respectively, the age gap between them might raise some questions, but their adoration for each other and willingness to compromise have shown true love between them. Rather than being a source of conflict, their contrasting personalities seem to complement one another, helping them grow as a couple. Both have made sacrifices for the relationship, most notably Alliya, who relocated from Brazil to start a new life with Shawn in the US. They now reside in West Hollywood, California, where they are building their new life together.
Shawn’s beloved dog, Maxwell, is lovingly cared for by both of them, and it symbolizes their joint commitment to nurturing not just their relationship but everything that comes with it. In June 2025, during a trip to New York, Shawn humorously shared that Alliya had exceeded her baggage allowance, and several of her cosmetic items had to be left behind, causing a delay. It underscored how they sail through life’s hiccups with patience and humor rather than frustration. Though they haven’t gone on their honeymoon yet, the joys of newlywed life seem to be fulfilling them for now. They continue to support one another in their personal goals while enjoying the everyday moments of marriage.
Shawn and Alliya Are Vocal Advocates for the Queer Community
Shawn Finch and Alliya de Batista have successfully built fulfilling professional lives, and they are driven in the same way, too. The couple continues to thrive both as individuals and as partners. Shawn, a seasoned hairstylist in the TV and film industry, has worked on hit productions such as ‘Desperate Housewives’ and ‘Ugly Betty.’ Alongside his work in entertainment, he runs his own apparel brand called Finch and Green, which features bold, advocacy-driven designs. One of his most popular items carries the slogan “Protect the Dolls,” reflecting his strong support for trans rights.
Alliya, a proud trans woman, has made her own space in the beauty industry. She is a model and the founder of Alliya Beauty, a cosmetics and skincare brand. Her business mirrors her values, focusing on inclusivity and self-expression. Both she and Shawn are vocal allies of the LGBTQ+ community and use their platforms to promote equality and awareness. The family remains a central part of their lives. Alliya has formed a close relationship with Shawn’s mother, Jeanne, who has welcomed her with warmth and affection. She is very close to her own mother and grandmother as well, and credits them for being role models in her life.
The couple is also still in touch with their co-stars from the reality show and occasionally meets up with them socially. Shawn recently underwent an eye procedure, and although he hasn’t shared full details yet, he would be glad to have Alliya’s love and company to make the experience easier. As a couple, they balance their public roles with a grounded home life. Their life together reflects a mutual commitment to uplifting one another, both in love and in life.
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