Bre Tiesi Recalls Ex's Special Forces Advice
The former reality star said she consulted Johnny Manziel and Dwight Howard before competing on the military-style competition show.
Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Divorce
Bre Tiesi discussed on The Viall Files podcast that she sought advice from her ex-husband Johnny Manziel and NBA veteran Dwight Howard before joining Special Forces: World's Toughest Test. Manziel urged her to do the show, while Howard advised against it.
Why it matters
The discussion revisits a former couple's public relationship, which ended in divorce in 2021 after three years of marriage and was followed by years without contact. It also offers a glimpse into how celebrities weigh conflicting counsel before taking on physically demanding television.
Tiesi appeared on season 5 of Special Forces and voluntarily left mid-course, while Manziel was a celebrity recruit during season 4. Howard appeared on season 1 of the series.
The players
Bre Tiesi
Bre Tiesi is a reality television personality who has appeared on multiple shows and is a former cast member of Special Forces.
Johnny Manziel
Johnny Manziel is a former Heisman Trophy-winning college quarterback and NFL player who became known for his outspoken public persona.
Dwight Howard
Dwight Howard is a retired NBA center and eight-time All-Star who has also competed on reality television.
The details
Tiesi said on the Tuesday, November 3 episode of The Viall Files that Manziel encouraged her to take part, while Howard counseled against it. She also confirmed she withdrew from the competition before finishing the course.
Timeline
2018 to 2021: Tiesi and Manziel are married.
2022: Tiesi welcomes son Legendary with partner Nick Cannon.
Tuesday, November 3: Tiesi discusses the advice on The Viall Files.
Culture Shift
Special Forces: World's Toughest Test has drawn celebrity recruits across multiple seasons, with participants like Dwight Howard, Johnny Manziel, and Bre Tiesi appearing on the show. Their individual decisions to join or leave the competition reflect a broader pattern of reality television figures using such programs to reshape public perception.
Readers considering televised competitions can weigh the physical demands and personal costs participants describe. The account shows that counsel from peers and former partners can conflict, leaving the final decision with the individual.
The takeaway
Major life decisions often involve gathering input from people with differing perspectives, and the final choice rests with the individual. Tiesi's account illustrates how honest reflection on outside advice can inform personal choices.
Further reading
Explore more on Divorce for related coverage of how past relationships shape public life.
