Keke Palmer is telling it all.
In a recent sit-down with People, the 31-year-old actress shared details about her tumultuous relationship with ex-boyfriend Darius Jackson, motherhood in the 21st Century, and her new memoir, Master of Me: The Secret to Controlling Your Narrative.
As we previously reported, fans were shocked in November 2023 when Keke filed for a temporary restraining order against Darius, accusing him of “physical and emotional abuse.”
She also claimed he was “unhinged, volatile, and dangerous to both me and our son.” The came the very public back and forth between the pair, where their personal lives were scrutinized and displayed in court documents and leaked voicemails.
“It was the hardest thing I ever had to go through,” wrote of the situation, adding that “a lot was going on” and by the time Darius’ infamous tweet about her outfit went viral, their relationship was already in an “unhealthy and unhappy place.”
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But it got to a point where “it got so out of control” and that’s when Keke decided to file charges against the fitness instructor.
“The only way I knew how to bring order was through the court,” she said.
As for what went wrong between the lovebirds, who shared very romantic and precious moments on social media before the domestic violence allegations and custody dispute, Keke says, “Having a baby was a big stressor.”
And so was fame.
“Not just with my romantic relationships, but with family and friends, it’s always become a burden. Too many voices get in. It can make everybody else not trust you. It’s hard to explain,” she added.
In the end, Keke and her ex – who is reportedly currently serving in the military – settled amicably and agreed to joint custody of their son Leo. For his sake, the “Hustlers” star is trying to focus on forgiveness.
“I wish I could say he was terrible the entire time or that I was … but it wasn’t that black-and-white and that was the problem.” she continued, “I didn’t want my son to think his father is a monster, because I don’t.”
In fact, “I’m very proud of him and happy for him,” she said of Darius before adding, “I feel very at ease now knowing things are under control.”
As for those dealing with a similar situation, Keke’s advice is, “Walking away is the only way.”
Keke’s Master of Me: The Secret to Controlling Your Narrative memoir debuts on November 19 and is available for preorder now.
