Kirsten Storms, best known for her role as Maxie Jones on *General Hospital*, has opened up about her personal life challenges amid ongoing custody proceedings with her ex-husband, Brandon Barash. The actress shared her thoughts and a striking new brunette hairstyle in an Instagram post on July 19, offering reassurance to her followers about her wellbeing during this turbulent time.
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In her post, the 42-year-old actress addressed the custody situation and her recent relocation to Tennessee. “I will briefly acknowledge that there is an ongoing situation with Brandon that will be getting sorted out (soon, hopefully),” she wrote beside a selfie showcasing her fresh bob hairstyle. Storms encouraged her followers not to worry about her, stressing that it was simply a matter of two ex-spouses facing a disagreement that would ultimately be resolved.
Storms and Barash, who share a 12-year-old daughter named Harper Rose, were married from 2013 until their divorce in 2016. Both former partners have since established separate lives in Tennessee. In her candid update, Storms requested that speculation surrounding her circumstances cease, particularly with Harper’s age and her potential to search for information online.
The custody dispute has reportedly been fraught with tension. Earlier this year, court documents revealed that Barash had obtained an emergency restraining order against Storms, alleging that she had contacted him while experiencing delusions. His claims included concerns about her ability to parent during their agreed custody time, as well as allegations regarding her hospitalisation under dubious circumstances, which she has not publicly acknowledged.
In a previous statement, Storms had expressed the emotional toll of the ongoing situation. “I haven’t been online much because of how the circumstances have been twisted into something that it shouldn’t be,” she noted. This comment came in response to speculation regarding Barash’s claims, underlining her desire for privacy as she navigates these serious matters.
Despite the challenges she faces, Storms conveyed a strong sense of resolve about her recent decisions. In her Instagram update, she mentioned that, although her situation is difficult, she remains confident in her choice to move to Tennessee. “I still feel that the move to Tennessee was the best choice for me,” she stated, reflecting on her personal feelings of belonging and contentment away from Los Angeles.
The actress, a former Disney star who has been part of *General Hospital* since 2005, indicated that her career in entertainment has been both fulfilling and overwhelming. She acknowledged the pressures of working in the industry from a young age, admitting that acting was the only profession she truly knew. However, her perspective shifted significantly following the birth of her daughter, prompting her to reassess her priorities in life.
In previous discussions, Storms revealed that she has been on a leave of absence from *General Hospital* following the diagnosis of a brain aneurysm. As a result, she remains uncertain about when she will return to work but has stated that she enjoys her time in Tennessee.
As the actress navigates the complexities of her personal life and health, she retains a positive outlook, expressing gratitude for her career achievements while also sharing her new hairstyle with a sense of playful pride. “Yes I have black hair and bangs,” she wrote. “I’m kinda dig,” indicating her willingness to embrace change during this period of personal development.
Kirsten Storms continues to be frank and engaging with her fans, offering insights into her life as she manoeuvres through both parenting and the challenges of co-parenting with her ex-spouse. As she balances these responsibilities, her commitment to her daughter and her health remains paramount.