Family Ties And Tension: Shekinah Garner’s Daughter Sofie Steps Into The ’90 Day Fiancé’ Spotlight
The hit reality show '90 Day Fiancé' has delivered plenty of dramatic romances, but few storylines have gripped viewers like Shekinah Garner and Sarper Güven's turbulent cross-continental love. As their journey from Turkey to the United States unfolds, attention shifts to Shekinah’s only child, Sofie — thrust into the spotlight as the deciding factor in her mother's future happiness.
Shekinah, a 41-year-old aesthetician from Los Angeles, first captured fans' curiosity on season 5 of '90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way.' Her whirlwind attraction to Turkish native Sarper began during a vacation and blossomed quickly, so much so that it prompted her to consider uprooting her California life to start anew overseas. Shekinah and Sarper’s chemistry was immediate. As Shekinah recounted with a smile, "I noticed it down the bridge of his nose, and I was like, 'This man is wearing makeup... That is so cute!'"
Their rapidly evolving romance saw Shekinah shuttling between continents. Yet, each flight brought her closer to an uncertain future: moving away from her work, friends, and most crucially, her daughter. Eventually, the couple pivoted towards a K-1 visa, setting the stage for Sarper’s relocation to the United States in season 11, premiering February 2025.
But for Shekinah, no new beginning felt possible without her daughter’s approval. Sofie, who was studying in Northern California, had never met Sarper before his move stateside. Her impressions were shaped by hearsay from relatives, leaving Shekinah understandably anxious. In a striking admission, Shekinah confessed, “If my daughter doesn’t approve, I wouldn’t go through with the marriage.”
The big meeting, captured in episode 8 airing April 2025, was set as a surprise. Shekinah expressed her doubts: “Sofie hasn’t been ready to meet Sarper yet and I’m still unsure if she’s ready now. But we’re running out of time ... I’m not walking down the aisle without my daughter’s approval.” As cameras rolled in Northern California, viewers saw the emotional stakes for all involved. Would Sofie’s embrace or hesitation tip the scales?
For fans, this storyline is more than just romance — it’s a modern parable about family, loyalty, and the sacrifices demanded by love across borders. As Shekinah, Sarper, and Sofie navigate their uncharted new family dynamic, their journey highlights the unique emotional terrain that reality TV rarely captures: the challenge of merging lives without losing sight of the ties that bind.
What do you think about Shekinah’s decision to put her daughter’s feelings first? Should family always take precedence over personal happiness? Share your thoughts and join the conversation below.
