Between 2023 and early 2024, Darius Daulton Jackson was often a viral topic for his relationship and co-parenting tussles with Keke Palmer. These days, though, he’s taken a back seat on social media and a front seat in the military! Darius recently opened up about taking that career route at age 30 and why it was his “best decision.”
RELATED: Yikes! Darius Daulton Jackson Goes Off About Visitation & Custody
Darius Daulton Jackson Says THIS About Joining The Military
The first time Jackson revealed he was a military man was on November 27, 2024. At the time, Darius shared a close-up photo of himself in uniform. His caption said, “Ready to do God’s work #ArmyStrong.”
On April 4, Darius Daulton Jackson shared a second post about his new path. As mentioned, he has stepped out of the limelight for the most part in recent months, which he acknowledged at the start of his post’s caption. “I don’t talk about much anymore…but tonight I don’t mind opening up to an unknown audience,” Jackson wrote.
Meanwhile, Darius’s photo was a mirror selfie in his uniform. He appeared to be in some type of living quarters. His caption continued, admitting that joining the Army as a 30-year-old 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. Now, don’t get me wrong, I HATE being away from Leodis & 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 added.
For context, Leodis is Dauton’s son, whom he shares with Keke Palmer. The infant was born in February 2023. Last month, Jackson shared a sweet video of him playing in a ball pit with his mini-me, captioning his post, “Year 2.”
Darius Addresses “Last Few Years” Of His Life
Also, in his recent update, Darius Daulton Jackson mentioned that the “last few years” of his life speak for themselves.
“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. 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,” Darius Daulton Jackson wrote.
Where Do Keke Palmer & Her Co-Parent Stand Now?
Darius’ image first began to sour in the public eye after he called out Keke, his girlfriend at the time, for her outfit at an Usher concert in July 2023. By November of the same year, Palmer revealed they had broken up the month before.
Then, the public learned about an altercation between him and Keke over visitation with Leo. Police were called, and Palmer was granted a temporary restraining order. Ultimately, even the actress’ mother and Darius’ brother got involved! After postponing a court appearance, the parents were meant to attend a mediation. However, by early February 2024, Darius was back on the internet calling out Keke Palmer over visitation and their battle for custody.
It’s unclear where the co-parents stand with each other these days. Their first time appearing together in a public photo after the parenting drama was in August 2024 while at the zoo with Leo.
Then, in October, the actress told PEOPLE that “walking away” was the best choice for them both after the relationship “got so out of control.” Ultimately, she said she’s “so proud of [Darius] and happy for him.”
