'The Vow' true story: What happened after the movie ended

The real-life couple that inspired 'The Vow' ultimately faced a heartbreaking ending to their love story.

The romantic drama 'The Vow', starring Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum, chronicles the struggle of a couple rebuilding their love after a devastating car accident leaves Paige (McAdams) with severe memory loss.  While the film offers a glimmer of hope, the real story of Kim and Krickitt Carpenter, upon which it is loosely based, took a far more tragic turn.

Though 'The Vow' fictionalised certain elements, the Carpenters' story is similarly marked by a traumatic brain injury that erased Krickitt's memories of her marriage. Unlike the film, the real-life couple faced further challenges, including infidelity, which ultimately led to their divorce in 2018.

This heartbreaking ending raises questions about what could have become of Paige and Leo. The movie suggests they might rekindle their romance, yet with a touch of ambiguity.  Paige and Leo had evolved into different people after the accident, and they could have chosen to remain friends.

While the true story hints at potential tragedy, 'The Vow' allows for a more optimistic interpretation. The film deviates significantly from the Carpenter's journey, potentially paving the way for a happier outcome for its fictional couple. The movie's ending leaves room for Paige and Leo to forge a new, albeit different, kind of love.