Dean McDermott Says It's a 'Shame' Candy Spelling Isn't More Involved in Her 'Gifted' Grandkids' Lives

McDermott shares five kids with estranged wife Tori Spelling and is also dad to son Jack from a previous relationship

Dean McDermott is opening up about his relationship with estranged wife Tori Spelling's mom Candy Spelling.

While speaking out for the first time since going public with his split from Tori, the Canadian actor alleged to the Daily Mail that Candy never tried to get along with him, which strained not only his marriage but Candy's relationship with her grandkids.

"It was difficult for Tori," McDermott, 56, said of his tense relationship with Tori's mom. "Here's the man that she loves and married and there's no relationship with the mother-in-law. I think that would hurt anybody."

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The reality TV alum continued, claiming Candy sees very little of her grandkids and chooses not to help financially.

"It's your daughter. It's your flesh and blood and it's your grand babies. And for someone who is so blessed to have so much, it would be really nice for her to share with her daughter," McDermott asserted.

Later in the interview, the dad of six commented on what he believes Candy is missing out on. "I think the real shame is for her to miss out on these wonderful children because they are really beautiful children," McDermott said. "They're very gifted and special."

In June, Tori, 50, and McDermott announced they were separating after 18 years of marriage in a since-deleted Instagram post.

"It’s with great sadness and a very very heavy heart that after 18 years together and 5 amazing children, that @torispelling and I have decided to go our separate ways, and start a new journey of our own," he wrote alongside a photograph of himself and Spelling, as well as an image of the now-former couple with their kids.

"We will continue to work together as loving parents and guide and love our children through this difficult time," he continued. "We ask that you all respect our privacy as we take this time to surround our family with love and work our way through this. Thank you all for your support and kindness. 🙏."

Representatives for both Spelling and McDermott did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.

The couple married on May 7, 2006, and renewed their vows on May 8, 2010. They share five children — daughters Stella Doreen, 15, Hattie Margaret, 12; and sons Liam Aaron, 16, Finn Davey, 11, and Beau Dean, 6. McDermott is also dad to son Jack, 24, from a previous relationship.

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