R. Kelly's daughter Buku Abi reveals traumatic past, suicide attempts in new docuseries

Abi, born Joann Kelly, claims she was molested by her father R Kelly at the age of 8

In a revealing new docuseries titled R. Kelly's Karma: A Daughter's Journey, R. Kelly's daughter, Buku Abi, shares the painful impact her father's alleged sexual abuse had on her mental health. Abi, born Joann Kelly, claims she was molested by her father at the age of 8, a traumatic event that led to multiple suicide attempts and a stay in a psychiatric hospital.

Abi recounts hitting rock bottom when, during a car ride to school, she broke down and told her mother, Andrea Kelly, that she wasn’t okay. This led to her hospitalization and a period of intensive outpatient care. The singer recalls moments of deep despair, sharing how her emotional struggles also affected her siblings, Jaah and Robert Jr. Their brother Robert Jr. noted in the series that watching Abi struggle with her mental health was terrifying, not knowing if his sister would survive another day.

Abi further reflects on her relationship with her father, stating that although she does not hate him, the trauma has left deep scars. R. Kelly, currently serving a 30-year sentence for sex trafficking, denies the allegations through his attorney, Jennifer Bonjean.

The series brings to light the emotional toll of abuse and the lasting effects on those left in its wake.