In a bombshell new documentary, R. Kelly‘s daughter, Buku Abi (born Joanne Kelly), speaks out for the first time about the alleged sexual abuse she endured at the hands of her father.
The two-part series, “R. Kelly’s Karma: A Daughter’s Journey,” takes viewers on a deeply personal journey as Abi confronts the painful past that continues to impact her life.
A Life Forever Changed
The documentary sheds light on the devastating consequences of abuse, with Abi revealing the abuse began as early as age 8 or 9.
She describes feeling confused and powerless, struggling to process the trauma.
I really feel like that one millisecond completely just changed my whole life and changed who I was as a person and changed the sparkle I had and the light I used to carry.
Strength in Speaking Out
Despite the initial fear, Buku Abi eventually found the courage to confide in her mother, Drea Kelly.
Related: Dr. Drea Kelly Unveils Upcoming Tell-All Memoir ‘Under The Red Carpet’
Together, they reported the abuse to the authorities under “Jane Doe,” but due to delayed disclosure, the case could not be prosecuted.
This experience of “saying something for nothing” only deepened Abi’s pain.
They couldn’t prosecute him because I waited too long. So at that point in my life, I felt like I said something for nothing.
Breaking the Cycle
The documentary follows Abi’s journey towards healing as she prepares for motherhood, determined to break the cycle of abuse.
It also explores the struggles of R. Kelly‘s entire family, including his ex-wife Drea and their other children, Jaah and Robert.
Seeking Justice and Healing
While Kelly’s attorney denies the allegations, “R. Kelly’s Karma: A Daughter’s Journey” offers a powerful platform for survivors of sexual abuse.
In a statement to PEOPLE, Kelly’s attorney Jennifer Bonjean said:
Mr. Kelly vehemently denies these allegations. His ex-wife made the same allegation years ago, and it was investigated by the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services and was unfounded….
And the ‘filmmakers,’ whoever they are, did not reach out to Mr. Kelly or his team to even allow him to deny these hurtful claims.
The documentary highlights the importance of speaking out and seeking help, along with resources for those in need.
“R. Kelly’s Karma: A Daughter’s Journey” is streaming now on TVEI Streaming Network.
Watch the trailer below.
In February 2023, R. Kelly received a 20-year prison sentence in Chicago for child pornography and enticement of minors for sex.
A year earlier, he was sentenced to 30 years in New York for racketeering and sex trafficking.
Kelly is currently serving 19 years of his sentences concurrently and is expected to be eligible for release in 2045.
For support and resources related to child sexual abuse, contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or visit www.childhelp.org.
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