Zayn Malik Unveils Surprising Revelations on Yolanda Hadid Spat and Coparenting: An Exclusive Interview with 'Call Her Daddy'

Zayn Malik and Yolanda Hadid Shutterstock (3)

Zayn Malik, after a six-year hiatus from interviews, recently revealed insights into his experience of fatherhood, music, and even touched upon his conflict with Yolanda Hadid. On the "Call Her Daddy" podcast episode aired on Wednesday, July 12th, the 30-year-old artist candidly discussed his journey in the public eye with host Alex Cooper. The interview took place at Cooper's family residence in Pennsylvania, where Malik currently resides and enjoys a low-key existence while taking care of his two-year-old daughter, Khai, whom he co-parents with his former partner Gigi Hadid.

"I came out here with my ex and instantly fell in love with it. I simply needed a break from the bustling city," he expressed, reflecting on his move from New York City.

Malik, renowned for his musical collaborations with Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Liam Payne in One Direction, sought to distance himself from the immense pressure of public scrutiny. Nevertheless, even in the suburbs, drama managed to find him.

In October 2021, Malik was officially charged with four counts of harassment following a reported conflict with Yolanda, aged 59, that had occurred one month earlier. According to court documents, Malik allegedly caused both mental distress and physical pain to Yolanda through acts of shoving and verbally abusing her on a property in Pennsylvania. It has been claimed that he directed derogatory and offensive language towards Gigi's mother, referring to her as a derogatory term and instructing her to maintain distance from his daughter.

Malik entered a plea of no contest to the charges and subsequently received a 90-day probation period for each of the four counts, resulting in a total of 360 days. Additionally, the musician was mandated to attend both an anger management course and a domestic violence program.

Upon learning about the incident, Malik consistently refuted Yolanda's allegations. In a comprehensive Twitter statement, he asserted that the situation should remain private in order to restore a peaceful family environment for Khai. (Us confirmed in October 2021 that Malik and Gigi, who began dating on and off in 2015, ended their relationship amidst the turmoil.)

Over a year after the alleged altercation, Malik addressed the aftermath on a podcast episode aired on Wednesday. "I believe I handled it in the best possible way - in a friendly and respectful manner. That's all that needs to be said," he stated. "There seems to be an overwhelming amount of negativity, you know?"

Scroll down for more of the biggest bombshells from Malik’s rare interview — including an update on how he gets along with Gigi now:

On Leaving One Direction

In 2015, during the On the Road Again Tour, Malik astonished everyone by suddenly declaring his departure from the band. On Wednesday, he clarified that he had experienced an overwhelming sense of being overexposed within the group leading to his decision to leave.

Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Liam Payne, and Zayn Malik were part of a group. However, there were various issues and conflicts, with certain individuals behaving in a particular way and others refusing to sign contracts. Recognizing that something was amiss, the speaker, without going into specifics, decided to take proactive action. In fact, they had realized the need to pursue a solo career well in advance. Their motive was driven by a self-centered desire to be the initial artist to release their own music record.

Malik admitted that there were "hidden problems" among the group. "To be completely honest, we had been together every day for five years and we grew tired of each other," he disclosed, further mentioning that he now reflects on his time with the band with a more "affectionate perspective" compared to when he initially departed. "We simply reached the end of our journey."

On Coparenting With Gigi Hadid

Malik gave a brief update on his “good” coparenting relationship with his ex, saying that the pair both view Khai’s happiness as “the main importance.”

Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik Hahn Lionel/ABACA/Shutterstock

On His Feud With Yolanda Hadid

Malik addressed his tumultuous relationship with Yolanda and its impact on his custody agreement with Gigi in a rare comment. He acknowledged being aware of the situation and the individuals involved. His primary concern was avoiding any attention and negative exchanges online that his daughter might come across later. Malik emphasized his tendency to refrain from engaging in online disputes, especially for the sake of his daughter. He expressed that his time is precious to him and he prefers to avoid toxic environments and unnecessary explanations to others, choosing to keep to himself instead.

On Setting an Example for Khai

He claimed that he had made every effort to manage the situation "in the most optimal manner," emphasizing that he continues to have an equal share of custody with Gigi. "I am completely committed to taking care of my child, being present whenever I get the opportunity," he stated. "If it were possible, I would have 60 percent custody."

Since Khai's arrival in September 2020, Malik's priorities have undergone a significant change. "My primary focus now is to set a good example for her," he expressed. "That's precisely why I'm participating in this interview, you know? Previously, I used to experience considerable anxiety when engaging in conversations like this. But now, I want Khai to be able to look at me and think, 'My dad's doing this.'"

Gigi Hadid, Zayn Malik, and Khai. Image credit: Gigi Hadid/Instagram

Malik expressed his desire to raise Khai in privacy, not with the intention of keeping her completely hidden, but rather to offer her a choice. He also mentioned that Khai has already demonstrated signs of musical aptitude.

On His New Music

Malik tantalizes fans with a glimpse into his highly anticipated album, delving into his own personal journey and drawing from authentic life encounters, even encompassing the profound impact of fatherhood. Offering a tantalizing tease, he hints at the presence of his daughter within the album, alongside an intriguing promise of a unique and innovative auditory experience.