Keke Palmer Opens Up About Ex Darius Jackson's Alleged Rough Treatment Towards Son Leodis, Reveals Attempted Couples Therapy
Keke Palmer seeks full custody of her son as she files a restraining order against ex-boyfriend Darius Jackson Claiming he was 'rough' with their child, Palmer's actions highlight the importance of their failed attempts at couples therapy
Keke Palmer Taylor Hill/WireImage
Keke Palmer has concerns about the safety of her son, Leodis, when he is in the care of her ex-boyfriend Darius Jackson. In her restraining order request submitted on Thursday, November 9, Palmer stated that Jackson, aged 29, had exhibited aggressive behavior towards their child earlier this year.
"On September 26, 2023, I expressed concern for Leo's well-being when Darius became extremely frustrated with him while changing his diaper," stated Palmer, 30, in her court documents, which have been reviewed by We. "Darius began handling Leo roughly, prompting me to intervene and ensure Leo's safety."
The Nope star further asserted that Jackson became "enraged," leading to a moment of tension over their child. "Eventually, Darius released his grip, and thankfully Leo was unharmed. However, as I held Leo, attempting to console him and complete the diaper change, Darius struck me on the head before storming out of the room," she claimed.
Jackson has not publicly responded to Palmer's accusations, but he tweeted a message to his son on Thursday night, saying "I love you, son. See you soon." We have reached out for a comment.
On Thursday, Palmer filed for full custody of their 8-month-old son and requested a no-contact order between her and Jackson. She claimed that Jackson, who works as a personal trainer, had been physically abusive on multiple occasions throughout their relationship.
Keke Palmer, Leo Jackson, and Darius Jackson. Paras Griffin/Getty Images
Palmer and Jackson began dating in August 2021 and welcomed their first child in February. Their relationship gained attention in July when Jackson publicly criticized Palmer for wearing a revealing outfit to an Usher concert in Las Vegas.
Jackson expressed his disapproval of the outfit on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "It's the outfit tho ... you're a mother. We live in a time where a man in a family doesn't want his wife and mother of his children displaying her body to please others. Yet, he is labeled as a hater. This is my family and my representation. I have personal standards and morals that I stand by. I conclude my statement."
Palmer chose not to address the drama directly, but instead responded by releasing merchandise with the phrase "I'm a Motha". According to a source, their relationship status is described as "complicated" and they are currently working through their problems.
According to Palmer's court filing, the couple decided to end their relationship in October after attempting to resolve their issues through therapy.
In the court documents, she stated that she and Darius had tried couples therapy, and although things initially improved, they would eventually deteriorate once again. The abuse inflicted on her by Darius throughout their relationship was largely rooted in his insecurity and jealousy. Consequently, she became deeply worried when Darius began showing signs of jealousy regarding the time she spent with their son. Palmer further expressed her concern for Leodis' well-being, as Jackson had allegedly made unsettling comments and displayed uncontrollable violent outbursts.
If you or someone you know are experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support.
