Surprising Bond Strengthened: Maci Bookout's Revelations on Ryan Edwards' Unexpected Connection with Son Bentley in Jail

Ryan Edwards developed a stronger bond with his son Bentley while serving time in jail, according to an exclusive interview with Maci Bookout by We.

After more than ten years of anticipation from devoted Teen Mom viewers, the long-awaited moment arrives where 35-year-old Ryan reunites with his 14-year-old son, whom he co-parents with Maci, 31. Despite facing numerous obstacles such as multiple arrests, struggles with substance abuse, as well as several stays in jail and rehab, it appears that Ryan and Bentley have finally reached a positive and harmonious place in their relationship.

“I find it crazy, but despite being in jail, he now manages to consistently show up and communicate with Bentley more than ever before, which is truly astonishing,” Maci revealed to Us on July 11, prior to the season premiere of Teen Mom: The Next Chapter season 2.

The MTV personality further stated: “As a mom, it brings me comfort to know that despite Ryan's poor choices and the consequences he faces, he still makes the effort to be present and maintain communication. In the past, this would have completely come to a halt.”

During the interview, Ryan was currently serving a nearly year-long sentence resulting from a harassment charge against his estranged wife, Mackenzie Edwards. He had been incarcerated since early April for being found "unconscious and unresponsive" in the driver's seat of his truck, leading to charges of simple possession of a controlled substance and a DUI, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by Us. Mackenzie, who has two children with Ryan (Jagger, 4, and Stella, 3), filed for divorce in February.

Regarding Ryan's well-being in prison, Maci mentioned that he had experienced some difficulties related to mental health issues, acknowledging the challenges of the prison environment. However, she did not excuse the behavior that led to his imprisonment, stating that he shouldn't engage in foolish actions.

Maci Bookout and son, Bentley Edwards Courtesy of Maci Bookout/Instagram

Ryan was given permission to leave jail on Friday, July 14, in order to attend an inpatient rehab program. Maci understands that she has limited control over coparenting with her ex, as he has a track record of being inconsistent when it comes to being there for Bentley. Maci's husband, Taylor McKinney, acknowledged this.

"I believe the difference lies in the support and therapy I have received through Al-Anon and my personal journey. Prior to Ryan's release from jail, I explained to Us that I have gained a clearer understanding of my role. I now have a better grasp of what I can control and what I bring to the table. I am confident in my actions and decisions," Maci expressed. "Although there will always be a fear of potential disaster, I am aware of my limitations and capabilities. I can only do what is within my power, and I find comfort in that knowledge."

Taylor, who had a heated altercation with Ryan's father, Larry Edwards, in an episode of Teen Mom OG in April 2021 while discussing Ryan's relationship with Bentley, admitted to Us that he was initially skeptical about allowing Ryan back into their family's life after years of turmoil. (In 2018, Maci obtained a two-year restraining order against Ryan due to alleged threats he made towards her. The order also included Taylor and their two children with Maci.)

Taylor shared that his main focus is finding a delicate equilibrium between safeguarding Bentley and not hindering his desire to establish a bond with Ryan. Despite the Edwards family's initial departure from the show in 2021, Ryan's unexpected return in season 2 of Teen Mom: The Next Chapter has surprisingly resulted in a seamless transition for Maci and Ryan, much to the surprise of fans.

Ryan Edwards US Sun/Mega

"Our communication has undergone significant changes. I feel much more at ease now because we are having discussions about how to safeguard Bentley's privacy and protect him during our filming. We carefully consider what we share and how we approach certain topics," she stated. "This clearly demonstrates how things are distinct this time around."

Regarding her improved relationship with Ryan, Maci explained, "It all started with Bentley and him expressing his perspective on the impact I have on their relationship." Maci further added that the commitments they made to each other regarding open communication and Ryan's consistent involvement in Bentley's life played a crucial role in their successful co-parenting. "We have simply adhered to these commitments. As a result, trust has developed, and our communication has become healthier. It hasn't been easy, especially considering recent events, but we are still moving in the right direction."

Teen Mom: The Next Chapter season 2 premieres with back-to-back episodes on Wednesday, July 19, 8 p.m. ET on MTV.

With reporting by Christina Garibaldi