In a recent social media post, Keke Palmer is keeping it real about motherhood while opening up about the difficulties that come with being a single mother.
The 32-year-old actress shared a carousel of joyful photos on Instagram featuring herself and her 2-year-old son, Leodis “Leo” Jackson, both grinning and laughing as they soaked up some downtime together. But along with the smiles came a message of raw truth about the realities of parenting solo.
“Omg I think my baby is a performer yall! Hahahahahah!!! Yall see him putting on for the camera???” Palmer began, before turning her post into a heartfelt note of solidarity for other single moms.
“This is to all my mothers doing it on their own. Not as a moment of pity or as a badge of hardship because being a mother is difficult, period. I just want to acknowledge you! It has been a really hard week for me and I honestly try very hard not to make TOO personal of posts,” the Nope star wrote.
She continued, “Even if it’s personal I try to tamper it with something that is serviceable and maybe I’m still doing that right now. It’s because I never want to sound ungrateful, I know I’m blessed and I know it could be harder, but I digress.”
“The point I’m making is the point I try to make to myself: You are doing good. You are capable. Your baby does love you. Your sacrifices are accounted for. God is with you. Your prayers will be answered, keep praying. God is with you. You are more than what you do for others. If no one has your back know that God does and that your baby is your greatest reflection of that. Don’t give up on you you’re worth it. Don’t give up on you you’re worth it. Don’t give up on you you’re WORTH IT. And know that .. you are allowed to have a bad day, a bad week, a bad month and it’s okay if our babies see that. It’s okay that they see we are human and we communicate our feelings. I would see my mom sad, I would see my dad sad, I watched them be human and I think I’m a better person because of it.”
Keke concluded, “Sending you the love I’d like to receive but don’t ask for cause you know, mommas.”
Keke’s candid reflection struck a chord with fans who’ve watched the actress navigate life and motherhood since welcoming Leo in February 2023 with ex-boyfriend Darius Jackson. Despite the public ups and downs, the One of Them Days actress continues to approach motherhood with humor and gratitude, often celebrating the joy her son brings even in tough moments. And of course, we are here for every minute of it!
Photo Credit: Keke Palmer Instagram
