Life after divorce is never simple, especially when eight children are involved.
Kate Gosselin, the reality TV star known for Jon & Kate Plus 8, recently went candid about the long-lasting effects her 2009 split from Jon Gosselin has had on their family.
Speaking to fans on a TikTok live, Kate didn’t shy away from admitting that the divorce “did not turn out well for my kids.”
Trying to Keep It Peaceful
The 50-year-old shared her mindset during the divorce, explaining that her decisions were guided by how she would want to be treated.
“I didn’t buy into all the drama and the hate, and the ugly,” Kate said.
“I had kids involved, so I wanted it to be as peaceful for them as I possibly could.”
Kate revealed that her focus was always on keeping the situation calm.
“I did not hire an attorney that wanted to stir up trouble; I just wanted it to be peaceful, and I wanted the best for my kids,” she added.
Despite her efforts, she acknowledged that some outcomes were beyond her control.
“A lot of things happened that I could not control that did not turn out well for my kids, but I did my best.
We just got through it to the best of our ability.”
Family Estrangement and Challenges
Kate’s family life has been far from easy. She is estranged from her son Collin and her daughter Hannah, who moved to live with Jon in 2016 amid a contentious custody battle.
Collin has publicly accused Kate of abuse, including claims that he was locked in the basement and restrained.
Kate placed him in a treatment facility at age 12 for behavioral issues, a decision contested by Jon.
When asked about the family estrangement on TikTok, Kate simply responded, “He knows why.”
Providing for Eight Children
Even years later, Kate’s responsibilities are significant.
During the TikTok live, she revealed working 12-hour shifts as a home healthcare nurse.
“Honestly? Providing for 8 kids,” she said.
She added that her work helped cover college funds and legal fees from her lengthy court battles. “Sickening but I was dragged into court constantly and that costs a TON,” she admitted, adding that her kids’ savings and her retirement were impacted.
Despite the struggles, she emphasized the positive: “It’s okay.
I’m helping other families and I feel needed and I enjoy helping.”
Fans Show Support and Understanding
Kate’s honesty resonated with many fans, who reflected on how she had been portrayed in the media.
“Looking back now, I can see how you were portrayed as the villain and you weren’t. I apologize for ever thinking that,” one fan wrote.
Another added, “I see how normal you are and now that I’m a mom I GET IT!! You are literally all of us moms and I’m here for it!!!” Supporters praised her resilience and dedication, recognizing that her reality TV image didn’t reflect the full picture.
Life in Retrospect
Kate Gosselin’s journey has been complicated, but her candidness shows a woman determined to do right by her children and herself.
From reality TV fame to navigating family estrangement and long work hours, she continues to face life with honesty, resilience, and a focus on helping others.
