Keke Palmer has provided insight into her evolving perspective on love and romantic relationships during a discussion with Whoopi Goldberg at the 2026 Tribeca Film Festival in New York City. This marks a notable moment for Palmer, who has not publicly dated since her separation from Darius Jackson, the father of her three-year-old son, Leodis.
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Reflecting on her journey since the end of her relationship with Jackson, Palmer spoke openly about the challenges and changes that have shaped her view on romance. “I’m more open to love than I was before,” Palmer shared, recalling a time post-pregnancy when she felt somewhat disconnected from intimacy. Highlighting the impact of her experience as a new mother, she described a phase where even the thought of being touched felt overwhelming. “Obviously some of that’s postpartum and some of that’s just when you have a big separation,” she explained with a hint of laughter.
Palmer’s thoughts about love have since matured. “Now love looks like having fun,” she continued. “I’m thrilled about not being so pressed about an outcome…” This shift indicates a more relaxed approach to romantic relationships, where the focus is on enjoying the moment rather than feeling pressure to achieve a particular outcome or fit a societal expectation.
Reflecting on her past relationship with Jackson, Palmer confirmed that the couple, who began dating in 2021, had a private romance before announcing their impending parenthood in December 2022. Their son was welcomed into the world in February 2023, yet their relationship faced turmoil soon after, particularly following public criticism from Jackson regarding Palmer’s attire at an Usher concert.
In response to escalating tensions, Palmer filed a domestic violence restraining order against Jackson later that year, which was followed by a similar filing from him. Their public custody battle concluded in 2024, with the couple settling on a joint custody arrangement for their son.
During her conversation at the Tribeca Festival, Palmer articulated a new narrative for her understanding of love. “My relationship to love is no longer this overly idealistic place for romance love,” she stated, emphasising that the majority of her emotional energy now revolves around her son and her career. “My son is my entire world. I’m deeply passionate about my work,” she affirmed, adding that romantic love now occupies a significantly smaller portion of her emotional landscape.
She quantified her affection, saying, “Romantic love is more like 20% of my love box, where 60% is Leo, 15% is work.” This metaphor highlights her commitment to prioritising the most important aspects of her life, suggesting that while she remains open to romantic connections, they will not dictate her identity or happiness.
There has been speculation about Palmer’s personal life since her breakup, particularly regarding her chemistry with Sean Evans, host of the popular YouTube series *Hot Ones*. The two have shared flirty exchanges and even a kiss on one of Evans’ episodes, which sparked online chatter about a potential romance. During a recent appearance of Evans on Palmer’s podcast *Baby, This Is Keke Palmer*, they addressed the ongoing interest in their dynamic, playfully discussing their chemistry and the reactions it elicits.
As for her professional life, Palmer is riding high after her recent performance in *I Love Boosters* and has several exciting projects on the horizon. She is set to appear in the upcoming sequel to the cult classic *Spaceballs*, alongside notable names such as Josh Gad and Mel Brooks. Palmer’s ability to balance her career and motherhood while navigating her complex feelings about love demonstrates her resilience and adaptability.
As Keke Palmer continues to assert her independence and redefine her relationship with love, she exemplifies a growing trend among individuals prioritising personal well-being, familial bonds, and career aspirations over traditional notions of romantic fulfilment. Her journey serves as a reminder that love can take many forms, and that personal growth often means making space for oneself amidst the complexities of life and relationships.