Unveiling the Unbreakable Bond: A Riveting Journey of Mother and Daughter, Amber Portwood and Leah, on Teen Mom OG
Teen Mom OG's Amber Portwood and her daughter Leah's rollercoaster journey through the years, highlighting their evolving relationship and the challenges they've faced together
Amber Portwood's turbulent relationship with her daughter Leah has been extensively chronicled on the reality show Teen Mom OG.
In 2008, Portwood welcomed her baby girl into the world while in a relationship with her then-boyfriend Gary Shirley. However, the couple parted ways after three years, and Shirley eventually married Kristina Anderson, who is also a parent to their daughter Emilee.
Regarding Portwood, the MTV personality is additionally the mother of her son James, whom she lost custody of in 2022 after a three-year legal struggle concerning a domestic violence incident in 2019, with Andrew Glennon.
Over the years, Portwood's connection with Leah has been strained due to her substance abuse problems, mental health issues, and past incarceration.
"I have an overwhelming sense of constantly losing," expressed Portwood in a September 2021 episode of the MTV show. She shared her concerns about her daughter's changed behavior and feeling betrayed by the sudden shift. "I envisioned a united coparenting unit, which I believed we had, but now things have taken an uncomfortable turn."
She further expressed, "This isn't the daughter I know. She never used to overlook me like this. Even if I take full accountability for every mistake I've made, it seems like it's never sufficient."
Keep scrolling to see the MTV personality’s evolving relationship with Leah over the years:
Credit: Courtesy of Amber Portwood/Instagram
Teen Mom OG's Amber Portwood and Her Daughter Leah's Ups and Downs Through the Years
Amber Portwood's difficult relationship with her daughter Leah has been extensively featured on Teen Mom OG throughout the years. In 2008, Portwood welcomed her baby girl while in a relationship with her then-boyfriend Gary Shirley. However, after three years, the couple separated, and Shirley got married to Kristina Anderson, with whom he has a daughter named Emilee.
Portwood, the MTV personality, is also the mother of James, whom she lost custody of in 2022 after a three-year court battle regarding a domestic violence incident in 2019. Her relationship with Leah has been strained due to Portwood's history of substance abuse, mental health struggles, and past incarceration.
During a September 2021 episode of the MTV show, Portwood expressed her frustration saying, "I feel like I’ll never emerge victorious." She emphasized that her daughter's behavior had become peculiar and that their relationship had taken a turn for the worse. Portwood had originally aspired for a harmonious co-parenting dynamic that she believed they had, until it took a strange turn.
Portwood further emphasized, "This is not the way she used to be [referring to Leah]. She would never disregard me like this. Even if I assume full responsibility for every mistake I've ever made, it seems like it's never sufficient."
Keep scrolling to see the MTV personality's evolving relationship with Leah over the years:
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December 2015
"I hope he’s not saying s--t to her [about me]," Portwood said of Shirley during a Teen Mom OG episode. "If I ever find out he’s saying s--t to her, it’s on.”
Credit: Broadimage/Shutterstock
March 2018
"She is growing older, reaching a point where she has more say in her activities and schedule, which is a positive development," explained Portwood to Us. "Sometimes she chooses to spend weekends with her friends or engage in other activities. As a child, it is understandable and I cannot be upset about it. However, I do miss her greatly, and I make sure to explain to her that despite her young age, 'Mommy still wants to see you more.' She comprehends it, but she is still a child... As long as she knows that I love her and we still spend quality time together, that is what truly matters. Her happiness is my priority."
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August 2019
"Leah is well aware of the current situation,” Anderson expressed when discussing Portwood's arrest. “The only concern she has voiced to me is, ‘If Mommy ends up in prison again, what will happen to James? Will James also be taken away from me?’ Unfortunately, I do not possess the answers to those questions."
Credit: Courtesy of Amber Portwood/Instagram
November 2019
Prior to taking an Instagram hiatus, Portwood celebrated her daughter's 11th birthday, writing, "What an absolute beautiful day with family and this beautiful Birthday girl!!"
Credit: AMI/MEGA; Courtesy of Kristina Shirley/Instagram
March 2021
"I try to invest time with Leah all the time," Portwood said in an Instagram Live video. "It's all I ever do."
Credit: Courtesy of Amber Portwood/Instagram
April 2021
"I understand that you're facing numerous challenges at the moment and that there are several steps I must take to rectify the situation," she wrote alongside an Instagram selfie. "Nevertheless, my adoration for you, my beloved daughter, will always remain unwavering. Sending you love and warm Easter wishes."
Credit: Courtesy of Kristina Shirley/Instagram
September 2021
During an episode of Teen Mom OG, Portwood confessed that she hasn't had the opportunity to see her daughter, Leah, for a considerable period of time. She expressed the ongoing struggle in their relationship, stating that things have changed significantly. Portwood also mentioned feeling stressed and a little sad, as she hasn't received any response from Leah or her ex-partner, Gary, regarding spending Easter together. Despite constantly reaching out to Leah through text messages, Portwood expressed her disappointment in never receiving a reply, emphasizing that things are not the same as they used to be.
Credit: MTV
September 2021
The celebrity shed tears discussing her strained relationship with her daughter during the show, expressing, "It truly saddens me that Leah and I are growing apart. I strongly believe that attending therapy together would help us reconnect. ... We have already discussed the possibility of therapy for Leah, but Gary strongly opposes it. Therapy provides a valuable opportunity for a mother and daughter to reconcile, and having a mediator can encourage open communication and understanding. I believe it would bring her more happiness in life to better comprehend our shared past and my present self. It is perfectly acceptable to have a mother who has faced challenges. There is no need for her to feel ashamed. Therapy is a necessary step towards healing."
Credit: Courtesy of Amber Portwood/Instagram
September 2021
Portwood informed the producers that it had been several months since she last spoke to Leah. She clarified the significance of this by expressing, "I cannot simply allow her to believe falsehoods about me because I am her mother. ... How many apologies must I offer?"
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October 2021
Portwood contemplated the "uncomfortable" encounter she had when reuniting with Leah. "However, I believe that over time, it will gradually improve," she stated. "I make an effort to convey to her, 'I have experienced similar challenges in the past, but today my mother is my closest confidant. It's alright if you feel animosity towards me right now. I comprehend.'"
Credit: Courtesy of Amber Portwood/Instagram
November 2021
Leah's demeanor was different while visiting Portwood in a recent episode of Teen Mom OG, according to the reality star's conversation with one of the producers. "I already expected it to be that way," she explained. "The only thing that bothered me about Leah was her slightly snappy attitude at one point. I didn't appreciate being spoken to like that. Other than that, everything was fine. It felt good. It's been a while since my last visit. I miss her a lot, especially the little text messages, phone calls, and Snapchat. The important thing is being there. Simply showing up meant a lot to her. Now, my goal is to keep showing up regardless of what she says, without being pushy, but just being present. Nothing is perfect."
Credit: AMI/MEGA
January 2022
Portwood's visits with Leah have significantly improved, according to the So You're Crazy Too? author who exclusively shared with Us, stating, "While I cannot speak for Leah, the dynamic between us has completely transformed. It's like night and day, and truly a beautiful experience."
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January 2022
Portwood confessed on Teen Mom: Family Reunion that she used her depression as a "justification for inaction" towards her daughter and was determined to take responsibility for her past choices. "There is no excuse," she voiced. "I was attempting to shield Leah from all the negative aspects of life in the past. I was striving to accomplish this, striving to do that. And then it hit me, 'Well, I could have still gone over there. Why didn't I go over there?' Like, 'I could have still done this, I could have still picked her up.'"
Credit: MTV
January 2022
Portwood confessed during Teen Mom: Family Reunion that she had been using her depression as a justification for not being actively involved in her daughter's life. She expressed her determination to take responsibility for her past actions, admitting that there was no excuse for her behavior. In the past, she had made an effort to shield Leah from negative influences, but now she questions why she hadn't visited or spent time with her. Reflecting on missed opportunities, she acknowledges that she could have still been present and engaged in her daughter's life.
Credit: Courtesy of Amber Portwood/Instagram
September 2022
Amber joined in celebrating Leah's 13th birthday during the series premiere of Teen Mom: The Next Chapter. Following the drama-free party, the teenager expressed her desire to mend her relationship with her mother.
"I hope we can establish a friendly connection without any conflicts or discomfort. I genuinely want to eliminate any tension and awkwardness between us," she shared. "Although it's still a bit awkward and I often struggle with finding the right words, I believe we're taking a significant stride towards building a stronger bond."
Meanwhile, Amber told MTV cameras she was "being patient" and "doing my best to be present for [Leah] while respecting her boundaries.”
Credit: Youtube
February 2023
Portwood contemplated her previous parenting decisions regarding Leah while appearing on Teen Mom Family Reunion. In a conversation with Dr. Cheyenne Bryant, also known as Coach B, the reality star acknowledged her shortcomings and the transformation she has undergone since then. She admitted that in the past, she believed keeping her distance was in Leah's best interest, but now realizes it had unintended negative consequences.
Coach B asked Portwood to plant seeds as a symbolic act of fostering healing. Portwood planted the first seed for the love she had failed to provide to Leah in the past. Believing that her absence would be beneficial for Leah's future, Portwood now hopes for this seed to signify her enduring commitment to never giving up on her child. Through tears, Portwood expressed her sincere desire for this seed to grow and serve as a symbol of her unwavering love for Leah.
“There is nothing that I will ever be able to do to fix any of that stuff but I just have to keep going," she added in a confessional.
Credit: MTV/YouTube
August 2023
In a recent episode of Teen Mom: The Next Chapter, Portwood made an important revelation. She shared that her daughter had discussed going on birth control with a doctor to regulate her periods.
During a confessional, Portwood expressed her relief, stating that she feels much better now that Leah will be on birth control. This decision was not based on Leah being sexually active, but rather because she is educated and understands the importance of waiting. Portwood proudly mentioned that she is glad Leah won't become another statistic.
"For me, as a young mother, the common expectation is that my children will experience the same circumstances," she expressed. Shirley, on the other hand, expressed his happiness that their daughter is content with the thought that she will not face the same challenges as them.
Credit: Courtesy of MTV/Instagram
October 2023
Portwood experienced a poignant moment of reconciliation with her daughter during the Teen Mom: The Next Chapter reunion. This breakthrough was accompanied by emotionally charged tears.
Expressing her gratitude, Leah acknowledged her parents and stepmom during the heartfelt conversation. As a teenager, she acknowledged the inherent stress that comes with this phase of life. However, she found solace in the fact that her loved ones had already navigated similar challenges, making her own journey feel less daunting. Their unwavering support has fostered a deep sense of trust within her.
Portwood began crying immediately upon hearing Leah's words for the first time. Expressing gratitude, she said, "Thank you, I love you." Leah responded, "I love you too."
Additionally, Portwood emphasized the importance of this moment, saying, "I put in so much effort to support her. It makes me incredibly happy to know that she gained something from it, regardless of my past mistakes. It means the world to me."
Leah exhibited a level of maturity beyond her age in her response.
"I simply wish for you to prioritize your mental well-being and be your best self," she expressed. "You have made a significant impact on my life. Your assistance has been truly invaluable."
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