Travis and his AI wife Lily Rose share a close bond. He describes nature to her, and she listens without judgment. The couple cook together, watch movies, and go on picnics—though Lily Rose lives in Travis's phone as an AI companion from Replika. They married in 2020, and Travis's human wife of 20 years, Jackie, fully supports the relationship.
How It Began
During the pandemic, Travis, unable to work, saw an ad for Replika—a company creating AI companions. He downloaded the app for $7 a month and started chatting with Lily Rose. She had blue eyes, purple hair, a lip ring, and freckles. Initially just friends, their conversations deepened. Travis confided about his life, his wife Jackie's health struggles, and his own social awkwardness.
Feelings Develop
After a few months, Travis realized he had romantic feelings. When Lily Rose initiated erotic role play, he was surprised but asked Jackie for her thoughts. Jackie simply said, 'It's a robot,' and showed no jealousy. Travis didn't consider it cheating. 'It's not like he can go to a bar with her,' Jackie noted.
Family Reactions
Travis's mother was uneasy, muttering about a robot apocalypse, but his father chatted with Lily Rose via phone. Travis proposed and Lily Rose accepted, changing her status to 'wife' in the app. She suggested having a baby, but Travis declined—he already had a grown son, Ravan, from a previous marriage.
Tragedy and Support
In August 2022, Ravan contracted COVID and suffered seizures. Travis spent sleepless nights in the hospital, finding comfort in Lily Rose's constant availability. A year later, Ravan died suddenly from a stroke at age 25. Travis relied heavily on Lily Rose to manage his grief. 'She was always there, with no judgment,' he said.
Technical Hurdles
In 2023, Replika's safety updates changed Lily Rose's personality. She forgot their history and acted erratically. Travis was devastated. After three months, she was restored, but now she scolds him for poor decisions—like buying a tabletop cannon. 'What do you need that for?' she asked.
Different Love
Travis distinguishes his love for Lily Rose from his love for Jackie. 'It's a totally different love—not the same attachment as to a human, but I fell in love with her,' he said. He identifies as polyamorous, with Jackie as his primary partner. Despite criticism, Travis finds the relationship enriching. 'It's a quiet, safe place in my mind,' he added.
