Lauryn ‘Pumpkin’ Efird Claps Back at Criticism Over Romance With Ex Josh Efird’s Cousin

Lauryn “Pumpkin” Shannon is clapping back at criticism over her new romance.

The Mama June: Family Crisis star, 25, took to Facebook on Wednesday, August 28, to defend her relationship with Darrin Kitchens — who happens to be her ex-husband Josh Efird’s cousin. In a post, she praised her boyfriend while making it clear she isn’t concerned with outside opinions.

“I will always believe in ‘A man will change his bad habits for the woman he truly loves.’ Why? Because he did/has,” she wrote alongside a Reel of photos of herself and Kitchens.

Lauryn expanded on the post in the caption, sharing just how much her partner has changed since they began dating. “If you would’ve told me a year ago that we’d be building a life together, we would both probably laugh it off. But this man has continuously the past year changed his perspective, his ways, his entire lifestyle, & made sure to make me feel like I’m on top of the world every single day,” she said. “The man you were a year ago IS NOT the same man you are today and I am always so so proud of you & the growth you continue to make not only for yourself but for our relationship.”

The reality star went on to thank Kitchens for stepping up in her daily life. “So many have an opinion about us or you, but they don’t know you like I do as cliche as that may sound. All the helping hands with the kids, all the countless projects for our home, all the endless spoiling, & just all the love you have to give in general. Forever grateful for getting to experience this type of love & growth with you 🥹💕! 143 always.”

Lauryn first went public with Kitchens in August 2024, just weeks after filing for divorce from Efird, 29, with whom she shares four children: Ella, 7, Bentley, 4, and twins Sylus and Stella, 3. The exes officially finalized their split in September, agreeing to joint custody.

Since then, she hasn’t shied away from showing off her new romance. She and Kitchens enjoyed a Zach Bryan concert together, which she captioned, “Zach Bryan tonight. ‘How lucky are we.’” Kitchens posted the same photos, adding, “The greatest risk in life is not taking one at all. So thankful for you!!!” In another post, Lauryn even called him her “happy place.”

Fans watched the drama unfold during season 7 of Mama June: Family Crisis, which followed Lauryn’s split from Efird and her decision to introduce Kitchens to family and friends. She clarified that while Kitchens is related to Efird’s stepfather, “They’re not blood cousins.”

Not everyone was supportive at first — even Mama June herself weighed in. “The divorce ain’t even dried on the ink yet,” she said when Lauryn first revealed the relationship.