Anna Macdonald broke the news in prison to her husband, Ewen, that their marriage was over - and several months into a new relationship, according to a magazine article.
In an exclusive interview with North & South magazine, Ewen's parents Kerry and Marlene Macdonald describe their "harrowing" 15 months - from the time their son was charged with Scott Guy's murder to their relief on hearing the not guilty verdict.
Despite the verdict, the magazine cover describes Ewen Macdonald as having "lost everything". The Herald revealed earlier this month that the couple's marriage had ended.
Kerry Macdonald told North & South they visited Ewen in Manawatu Prison on many occasions, but the toughest time was when the marriage ended.
Anna broke the news to Ewen after Ewen's parents became aware she had been in a new relationship for several months.