I think there are aspects of the show that are based initially in reality. Some couples more so than others. But these two have been mostly fake from day one. It’s not even interesting or entertaining. I ff their segments. Safe to say the longer a couple is in the franchise the more fake the storyline. Unless you’re Paul and Karine and your actual drama is too sad and outrageous to continue to film.
Iirc he wasn’t divorced either. Or he was but he and his ex wanted him on the show to advertise their business.