R. Kelly's Daughter: He's a 'Monster'

Buku Abi apologizes for not speaking out sooner
By Newser Editors,  Newser Staff
Posted Jan 11, 2019 7:11 AM CST
R. Kelly's Daughter: He's a 'Monster'
This 2011 file photo shows R. Kelly performing at a pre-Grammy event in Beverly Hills, Calif.   (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, file)

R. Kelly's estranged daughter is joining the public chorus against her father, calling him a "monster" in her Instagram Stories. Joann Kelly, who now goes by Buku Abi, issued the statement as the R&B singer faces a growing backlash over the Lifetime documentary series Surviving R. Kelly, which alleges years of sexual misconduct against young women. "I pray for all the families & women who have been affected by my father's actions," writes Abi. "The same monster you all confronting me about is my father. I am well aware of who and what he is. I grew up in that house." (Read the full text at TMZ.)

Abi apologizes for not speaking out previously about her father but says it was necessary for her "emotional state" and her own "healing." She does not make specific allegations against him. Meanwhile, yet another woman has come forward to accuse Kelly. Michigan's Danielle Williams, 36, tells WGN9 that Kelly began a six-year sexual relationship with her when she was an aspiring model at age 16. Her allegations fit the pattern outlined in the documentary: She says he controlled her life, once keeping her captive in a hotel room for three days. This week, Kelly's attorney says "no evidence" backs up the claims in the documentary, reports Fox 5 Atlanta. (Lady Gaga now regrets her collaboration with Kelly.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X