Actress Jaime King has endured a string of personal setbacks in recent weeks, culminating in a devastating custody ruling that has left her reeling.
A Los Angeles judge awarded sole physical custody of King’s two children—Leo, 9, and James, 11—to her ex-husband, director Kyle Newman. While the former couple will share legal custody, the court ruled that King, 45, will only be allowed supervised visitation three times a week. Those visits are contingent on her enrolling in and completing a six-month drug and alcohol treatment program.
Sources close to King say the Pearl Harbor star was shattered by the decision. The ruling marks a painful chapter in an ongoing legal battle that began in 2020 when King filed for divorce after 13 years of marriage.
Custody fight reveals addiction allegations
During the custody hearings, Newman, 49, alleged that King has struggled with substance abuse, referring to her as a chronic drug addict and alcoholic in court filings. King has previously maintained she had tested clean for drugs and alcohol.
However, the judge sided with Newman, who requested greater custody rights in light of what he claimed were continuing concerns about the children’s well-being.
Although King has not publicly commented on the court’s latest decision, a source close to her revealed she is devastated but remains committed to doing whatever is necessary to regain regular access to her sons.
Eviction adds to personal turmoil
Adding to her string of setbacks, King was recently evicted from her $10,145-a-month Los Angeles rental home. The property owner alleged King owed approximately $42,580 in unpaid rent. While legal notices made headlines, King responded by saying the situation with her landlord was resolved privately and accused the landlord of trying to exploit her circumstances.
The actress, who gained fame in films like Sin City and White Chicks, has seen her personal life overshadow her career in recent months. Though she’s worked steadily in television and film, insiders say the combination of legal drama and financial hardship has put her in a difficult position professionally.
Still, those close to King insist she is ready to turn things around, beginning with her court-mandated rehabilitation program. Many of her fans have taken to social media to offer messages of support and hope she can make a full comeback.
As she faces this challenging period, King is said to be focusing on her health, her career, and most importantly, her children.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.