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BY Francis Akhalbey, 9:02am April 08, 2025,

Keke Palmer’s ex Darius Jackson explains how joining the army was ‘much needed’ after breakup

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by Francis Akhalbey, 9:02am April 08, 2025,
Keke Palmer's ex-boyfriend Darius Jackson touched on joining the U.S. Army -- Photo: dvulton/Instagram

Keke Palmer’s ex-boyfriend Darius Jackson has largely stayed under the radar after he and the actress got embroiled in a bitter child custody dispute following their separation. 

But in an Instagram post on April 3, Jackson provided an update on his life and also touched on his decision to join the army, explaining that it was “random but much needed.”

“I don’t talk about much anymore.. but tonight I don’t mind opening up to an unknown audience..” Jackson wrote alongside a photo of him in uniform. 

“Joining the Army at my big age of 30 was random but much needed. The more I pray, the more God has given me the clarity that this has been the best decision I have made for myself,” he stated. “Now, don’t get me wrong, I HATE being away from Leodis [his son] & I HATE TRADOC! However, being older has allowed me to have so much patience & wisdom to get me through some of these rough times.”

Jackson continued: “Last few years speaks for itself which is why I show so much gratitude to God for giving me this redemption. Story is FAR from complete but the foundation is set.”

READ ALSO: Keke Palmer opens up about breakup with ex Darius Jackson: ‘It was the hardest thing I ever had to go through’ 

He also shared some words of encouragement to others. “To anyone at my age, older or younger.. regardless of what life brings you, you still have a chance to pave your own lane. Anyways, I can’t wait to get outta AIT,” he wrote. 

As previously reported by Face2Face Africa, Jackson and Palmer’s relationship initially did not end on amicable terms. The tension between the pair was exacerbated after Palmer filed for a domestic violence restraining order against Jackson, alleging that he physically attacked her on several occasions. Jackson, however, denied those claims and brought his own allegations against the Nope star. 

Besides that, the former couple also got embroiled in a bitter child custody battle. But Palmer and Jackson ultimately agreed to have joint custody of their 2-year-old son, and it appears they’re now on good terms. 

READ ALSO: Darius Jackson advises men to get married before having kids amid custody battle with Keke Palmer

Last Edited by:Mildred Europa Taylor Updated: April 8, 2025

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