Timothy Bliefnick, a former contestant on the popular game show Family Feud, has been given three life sentences in an Illinois court for the murder of his wife, Rebecca. This shocking case gained attention due to Bliefnick’s infamous joke about regretting marriage while appearing on the show. According to local news station KHQA, Bliefnick received two life sentences for first-degree murder charges and an additional life sentence for home invasion. Due to being sentenced to “natural life” in prison, Bliefnick will not have the chance for parole, credit for time served, or any possibility of release.
During the court proceedings, Judge Robert Adrian condemned Bliefnick’s actions, stating, “You researched this murder. You planned this murder. You practiced this murder. You broke into her house and you shot her multiple times. Some of those shots were fired while she was lying on the ground, and you did all of that while your children were upstairs, innocent and asleep.” Bliefnick chose not to make a statement during his sentencing.
This sentencing comes two months after Bliefnick was found guilty of first-degree murder and home invasion in the brutal killing of Rebecca Bliefnick on February 23. The Associated Press reports that Rebecca’s family member discovered her lifeless body inside her home after she didn’t arrive to pick up her children from school. At the time of her tragic death, the Bliefnicks were in the process of getting a divorce.
Interestingly, Bliefnick’s sentence was handed down more than three years after a controversial moment on Family Feud where he caused astonishment with one of his answers. When asked about the biggest mistake he made at his wedding, Bliefnick jokingly responded, “Honey, I love you. But… Said ‘I do.'” Despite the audience’s reaction, Bliefnick reassured them by saying, “Not my mistake! I love my wife.” In a teasing manner, he added, “I’m going to get in trouble for that, aren’t I?”
Rebecca, the victim of this heinous crime, was a dedicated mother of three and a registered nurse. She was even nominated for a prestigious DAISY Award in 2020, which recognizes exceptional care provided by nurses. This tragic loss has left her family and loved ones devastated.
The case of Timothy Bliefnick serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from domestic disputes and the importance of addressing issues constructively and peacefully. It is a sobering reminder that behind the entertainment of a game show, real lives are affected, and the consequences can be unimaginably tragic.