The Rise and Transformation of Skai Jackson: From Disney Star to Empowered Mother.

Skai Jackson, born on April 8, 2002, in Staten Island, New York, is a name that resonates with many, particularly those who grew up watching Disney Channel.

Known for her role as Zuri Ross on the hit show *Jessie*, Skai’s journey from a child star to a young woman navigating the complexities of fame, motherhood, and personal challenges is both inspiring and cautionary.

This article explores her rise to fame, the challenges she faced, and her transformation into a resilient single mother.

Early Life and Early Career

Skai Jackson was not destined for the spotlight initially. She was just a regular kid from Staten Island, the daughter of Kia Cole and Jacob Jackson, and the sibling to Aurora and Nala Jackson.

However, her life took a dramatic turn when she started modeling at just nine months old. By the age of four, she had already landed her first movie role, showcasing a talent that would soon captivate audiences.

Her early career included appearances in popular shows like *Boardwalk Empire* and voice roles in *Dora the Explorer*.

However, it was a Band-Aid commercial that made her a recognizable face, with classmates often asking her to sing the jingle. This early exposure to the entertainment industry laid the groundwork for her future success.

Breakthrough with Disney

In 2011, at just nine years old, Skai auditioned for the Disney Channel show *Jessie*. She landed the role of Zuri Ross, the sassy youngest child in a wealthy family.

The show premiered on September 30, 2011, and became an instant hit, running for four seasons and 98 episodes until 2015.

Skai’s character, complete with her stuffed animal Mr. Kipling, captured the hearts of viewers and established her as a prominent figure in children’s entertainment.

Despite her success, Skai faced bullying at school for her height and youthful appearance, which led her to make a pivotal decision: to move to Los Angeles and fully embrace her career in Hollywood.

This move marked a significant turning point in her life, allowing her to focus on acting while distancing herself from the bullying she experienced in New York.

The Transition from Child Star to Young Adult

Skai spent seven years working with Disney, surrounded by peers like Peyton List and Cameron Boyce.

The camaraderie on set provided her with cherished memories, but the transition to adulthood was not without its challenges. As she grew older, Skai felt the need to break free from the constraints of her Disney image.

By the time she was 16, she decided to leave the channel that had made her famous, seeking new opportunities that would allow her to explore different aspects of her talent.

However, leaving Disney came with its own set of difficulties. The online bullying that began in her childhood followed her into her teenage years, particularly on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram.

At just 11 years old, she faced harsh criticism and negative comments about her appearance, which she learned to combat through resilience and advocacy.

Standing Up Against Bullying and Controversies

Skai Jackson became known not only for her acting skills but also for her outspoken nature against bullying. In 2016, she publicly called out rapper Azealia Banks for making racist comments about Zayn Malik.

This incident marked a significant moment in Skai’s life, as she used her platform to advocate for anti-bullying and social justice.

Her mother, Kia Cole, played a crucial role in supporting her during these public feuds, often stepping in to defend her daughter on social media.

Despite her advocacy, Skai’s career was not without drama. Rumors of tension between her and co-star Debbie Ryan circulated, leading to speculation about their relationship. Although they later seemed to reconcile, the damage to their public image had been done.

Another controversy arose in 2019 when rapper Bhad Bhabie accused Skai of creating a fake profile to diss her relationship with rapper NBA YoungBoy, igniting a social media feud that captivated fans.

Dancing with the Stars and New Beginnings

In 2020, Skai participated in *Dancing with the Stars*, where she showcased her versatility and talent beyond acting.

Finishing in fifth place, she proved to the world that she was more than just a Disney Channel star; she was a performer ready to take on new challenges.

That same year, she published her book, *Reach for the Sky: How to Inspire, Empower, and Clap Back*, which reflected her journey of empowerment and resilience.

However, as she stepped into adulthood, Skai faced personal challenges that would test her strength in unimaginable ways.

Motherhood and Personal Struggles

In August 2024, Skai Jackson was arrested at Universal Studios Hollywood during a heated argument with her boyfriend. Security footage showed her as the primary aggressor, leading to her arrest for misdemeanor spousal battery.

Both Skai and her boyfriend denied any physical altercation, claiming they were happily engaged and expecting a baby. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office later declined to file charges due to a lack of evidence.

In November 2024, Skai announced her pregnancy, marking a new chapter in her life.

However, the joy of impending motherhood was overshadowed by the complexities of her relationship with her boyfriend, DeAndre Bergen, also known as Yorkie.

Their relationship sparked controversy from the start, especially since they reportedly met while he was incarcerated.

On January 15, 2025, Skai gave birth to their son, Casai. Unfortunately, by mid-2025, she filed for a restraining order against Bergen, alleging abuse.

The court documents revealed a disturbing picture of their relationship, including Bergen’s history of legal troubles. Skai expressed fear for her safety and her son’s safety, leading to the court granting the restraining order.

Navigating Single Motherhood

As of now, Skai Jackson is a single mother navigating the challenges of raising her son without the support of his father.

Her mother, Kia Cole, has stepped in to help Skai with parenting responsibilities while she continues to work and rebuild her life. Despite the turmoil, Skai remains committed to ensuring that Casai knows he is loved and valued.

At just 23 years old, Skai still appears youthful and vibrant, almost unchanged from her Disney days. Her resilience and determination to rise above her challenges are evident in her public persona.

While she has kept her personal life private since the abuse allegations surfaced, she continues to focus on her son and her healing journey.