Keke Palmer and Darius Jackson, who share a 5-month-old son named Leodis Andrellton Jackson, have ended their relationship after almost two years of dating, as reported by multiple sources. The separation comes after the actress from “Hustlers” and the fitness instructor, whose brother is Sarunas Jackson, known for his role in “Insecure,” began their romantic involvement in 2021. The couple made their relationship public on Instagram in August of that year.
Reflecting on the unexpected turn of events in the summer of 2021, Darius posted a now-deleted message stating, “I never anticipated that summer 2021 would unfold the way it did, but here we are. I’m grateful that we were able to support each other during our most challenging times and demonstrate that we brought our utmost to the relationship.”
The breakup occurred slightly over a month after Darius sparked controversy by publicly criticizing Keke’s outfit at an Usher concert in early July. Responding to a video shared on the platform X (formerly known as Twitter) featuring Keke from the concert, he commented, “It’s the outfit though… you’re a mother.”
Darius remained firm in his viewpoint, reiterating in a deleted post on July 5, “We live in a generation where a family man doesn’t desire the mother of his children to showcase revealing clothing to appease others. He’s then labeled a hater. This is my family and my representation. I uphold my principles and values. I rest my case.”
Although Keke didn’t directly respond to the online controversy, she introduced “I’M A MOTHA” merchandise shortly after. Additionally, she collaborated with Usher on the music video for his single “Boyfriend.”
Notably, Keke took the forefront in the video released on August 16 and subtly alluded to Darius during a phone call at the end, remarking, “Oh darn, I missed the show! Gosh, I’m so exhausted. After all, I am a mother.”
In her role as a mother, the Emmy winner offered words of encouragement for fellow new mothers amidst the online turmoil. Speaking to The Cut in July, she advised, “Be yourself, new moms. Embrace your individuality. Trust me, there’s no one on this planet who loves you more than that child. Find happiness, because that kind of love is unparalleled. When someone loves you like that, who cares?”
Keke emphasized that her experience of becoming a mother earlier in the year had made her feel remarkably empowered. She confessed, “I’ve gained an incredible amount of strength. I’m confidently striding forward, enjoying life. To be honest, even before becoming a mother, I struggled with self-consciousness. It’s only natural, considering my public persona and the work I’m involved in as a public figure.”
