Becoming a parent marks a significant transformation in one’s life. Suddenly, your world—and your heart—expand to make room for your child. Your focus shifts to caring, nurturing, and loving another individual while also experiencing a profound change in self-perception. This profound shift is precisely what Keke Palmer, a multifaceted personality encompassing roles as an actress, singer, podcast host, and entrepreneur, underwent when she welcomed her son, Leodis “Leo” Andrellton, in February 2023.
Embracing Self-Love
In a cover interview with Teen Vogue in February 2024, the “Big Boss” singer revealed her renewed focus on self-love following motherhood. Palmer emphasized the importance of loving oneself wholeheartedly to be able to extend that love to her son Leo, whom she co-parents with her ex, Darius Jackson. Drawing a parallel to the airplane safety protocol of securing your oxygen mask before assisting others, she highlighted the significance of self-love in nurturing the best possible love for her child.
Palmer is actively incorporating this principle into her life by reengaging in Pilates, prioritizing “me time,” and enrolling in cooking classes. Expressing her excitement about this new endeavor, she shared her enthusiasm for mastering culinary skills, stating, “I cooked. I’m the host. I made Beef Wellington from scratch.”
Despite her busy schedule, which includes accolades like winning an Emmy and launching KeyTV, Palmer is mindful of the projects she undertakes. She reflected on a shift in her approach to work, emphasizing the importance of selecting opportunities that align with her values and ensure her and Leo’s well-being. This includes opting for roles that allow Leo to be present on set or enable her to work from home with her baby nearby. This conscious decision-making process reflects Palmer’s commitment to self-love, which now extends to prioritizing quality time with her loved ones, with baby Leo topping the list.
Speaking affectionately about her son, Palmer described Leo as a blend of stoicism and expressiveness, social charm and introspection, attentiveness, and playfulness. She gushed, “His personality… He’s really the best, best, best,” showcasing her deep maternal bond with her son.
Rediscovering Childlike Joy
_ATLANTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 29: Keke Palmer, Leo Jackson, and Darius Jackson attend the “Big Boss” Closing Night Screening during the 2023 Atlanta Film Festival at Rialto Center for the Arts at Georgia State University on April 29, 2023, in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Carol Lee Rose/FilmMagic)_Carol Lee Rose/FilmMagic
Reflecting on her pregnancy journey and the lessons learned from motherhood, Palmer recently shared insights on Instagram. She reminisced about a therapy session that led to a profound realization about her own childhood experiences.
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Palmer recounted how, due to her parents’ career sacrifices to support her own ambitions and care for her siblings, she assumed financial responsibilities at a young age. Despite the pride she took in shouldering these responsibilities, she felt compelled to mature quickly, sacrificing her own childhood desires and emotions in the process.
Now, as a mother, Palmer rediscovers the joy of childhood through her son. She humorously reflected on the irony that parenthood, with its increased responsibilities, has granted her the opportunity to reconnect with her inner child. Through Leo, she finds freedom and priceless lessons, reawakening the youthful spirit she thought she had lost.
These celebrity moms shared their transformative motherhood experiences with SheKnows, shedding light on the profound changes it brings.