Kim Kardashian has bravely opened up about the profound challenges of co-parenting her four children with ex-husband Kanye West, revealing his months-long absence from their lives and her tireless efforts to shield their kids while maintaining a stable home environment.
In a recent candid interview on the Call Her Daddy podcast, reality star and entrepreneur Kim Kardashian offered a rare glimpse into the complex reality of co-parenting her four children—North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm—with her ex-husband, rapper and fashion designer Kanye West, also known as Ye. Kardashian described the situation as “not easy,” shedding light on the intricate balance of protecting her children while striving for a healthy relationship with their father.
The Reality of Co-Parenting with Ye
During the interview with host Alex Cooper, Kardashian unequivocally stated that she raises her children “full-time” and that they reside with her. She emphasized her commitment to fostering a positive relationship between her children and their father, stating, “I welcome a great, healthy relationship with my kids and their dad, and I think he knows that.” This dedication involves constant effort on her part, often going in “waves and phases” that require significant work, as reported by Entertainment Weekly.
A particularly striking revelation came when Cooper inquired about the last time Ye saw their children. Kardashian paused before admitting, “It’s probably been a couple months since we’ve heard from him.” This extended period of silence from the rapper highlights the unpredictable nature of their co-parenting dynamic, a sentiment echoed across multiple media outlets, including Page Six.
Protecting the Children and Managing Expectations
Despite Kanye’s periods of absence, Kardashian maintains that her children cope remarkably well. She explained that their kids have “always knew that he had a big life” involving extensive international travel and residences in different countries due to his demanding career. This established understanding helps them manage the disappointment when he is not present.
Kardashian’s primary focus remains on providing stability. She elaborated, “They love their life and their routine and their schedule. And I think just their job as their mom is just to make sure that they stick to their routine and they’re healthy and happy.” This dedication underscores her commitment to shielding them from the more turbulent aspects of their parents’ public and private lives.
Debunking the “Kidnapping” Narrative
One of the most frustrating aspects for Kardashian has been the persistent public narrative that she intentionally keeps her children away from Ye. She vehemently denied these claims, asserting, “I’ve never once done that.” She revealed instances where she has “begged them” to go spend time with their father, emphasizing that the lack of contact often stems from Ye’s side.
Kardashian expressed her dismay over social media posts and tweets that accuse her of “kidnapping” the kids, clarifying, “it’s not a kidnapping, it’s a divorce.” She strives for a world where they can still be in each other’s lives and share moments, like “group dinners.” While she ensures the children can see their father “every time he asks,” she also draws a line when the situation becomes “really super unhealthy,” suggesting alternative arrangements like visits at her home or at a different time.
She reiterated that she has “never once denied” the children visiting him, even facilitating trips to countries like Saudi Arabia and Japan when requested. Her decision not to publicly rebut every accusation stems from a desire to protect her children from online battles. “The last thing my kids need is for them to hear it from me,” she stated, highlighting her commitment to never speaking negatively about their father in front of them.
The Lingering Impact of Divorce
Beyond the immediate co-parenting struggles, Kardashian also touched upon the emotional toll of their divorce. She recounted a poignant moment where her then-10-year-old daughter, North, suggested she should “move on” and find a boyfriend, believing her mother cried at night. Kardashian playfully denied this, claiming she was merely getting a massage, but the anecdote underscores the children’s awareness of their parents’ separation.
Kardashian explained her decision to file for divorce, citing Kanye’s unwillingness to make “healthy and beneficial” changes, which made the relationship toxic. She also revealed instances of feeling unsafe emotionally and financially due to his “mental breaks” and impulsive actions, such as giving away their luxury cars. “I had to save myself in order to be a better mom for everyone,” she concluded, emphasizing that despite the difficulties, their decade-long relationship and four beautiful children are “not a failure.”
Watch the Full Interview
For fans eager to delve deeper into Kim Kardashian’s candid reflections on co-parenting and her personal journey, the full interview on the Call Her Daddy podcast provides extensive insights.
Kardashian’s revelations offer a poignant look into the complexities of navigating a high-profile divorce while prioritizing the well-being and stability of her children amidst ongoing public scrutiny and the challenges of an often-absent co-parent.
