In her new memoir *Manual Not Included*, Hilaria Baldwin opens up about a deeply troubled time in her marriage to actor Alec Baldwin — a time she was “ready to walk away.”
The couple faced their most “rocky” period around the birth of their second child, Rafael, in 2015.
Hilaria, who shares seven children with Alec, writes that she felt “disrespected” and emotionally neglected during that time, particularly when Alec continued working and answering emails — even while she was in labor.
The tension between them grew, with frequent arguments and growing resentment over Alec’s demanding work schedule. Hilaria admits that she even took off her wedding rings to signal that she might leave.
She writes that both were “set in their ways,” unwilling to compromise, which led to mounting frustration.
Alec’s immediate return to work after their son’s birth was a major trigger that left Hilaria feeling unsupported and undervalued.
Despite the emotional strain, the couple managed to work through their issues. They stayed together, had five more children, and renewed their vows in 2017.
Alec later shared that he needed reassurance that their relationship was still strong, saying, “I need to know you’re not going anywhere.”
Their journey, including both highs and lows, is now part of their TLC reality show *The Baldwins*. Alec also reflects on past regrets, including how his divorce from Kim Basinger affected their daughter, Ireland.
The memoir and show offer a raw look into a high-profile couple navigating marriage, parenthood, and personal growth.
