Following public accusations from Autumn Urker, the sister of the late Ken Urker, Gypsy Rose Blanchard has broken her silence. Autumn recently criticized Blanchard, alleging that she had been dishonest regarding the nature of their relationship and the circumstances surrounding Ken's death.
In a formal statement provided to Us Weekly, Blanchard expressed a desire to move past the public conflict. "At this time, I do not want the focus surrounding Ken’s passing to become centered on negativity or disagreements between Autumn and me," she stated. She acknowledged the existing tension, noting that Autumn had been vocal about her disapproval of their relationship long before Ken's passing.
Blanchard emphasized that her current focus remains on processing her grief and supporting their daughter. "Right now, my priority is grieving Ken, supporting our daughter and honoring his memory. I remain in communication with Ken’s family, and aside from my relationship with Autumn, those communications have been positive and respectful during an incredibly painful time."
Reflecting on their final interactions, Blanchard shared that Ken had expressed significant distress regarding his sister's public comments. "During my final phone conversation with Ken on Monday, September 28, he told me that he was deeply distressed by the situation," she recalled. According to Blanchard, Ken felt that Autumn was contributing to the negative scrutiny he was already facing online.
Addressing the broader context of the tragedy, Blanchard noted that Ken was struggling with online harassment at the time of his death. This experience has motivated her to advocate for stronger legal protections against cyberbullying. "I would much rather use my voice to focus on that work and on preserving Ken’s legacy than continue a public family dispute," she added.
Ken Urker was found deceased in his Louisiana home on October 1. While Blanchard has publicly identified the cause as a suspected overdose, the situation has been marked by conflicting narratives. Autumn Urker has challenged Blanchard's claims, specifically disputing the status of their relationship at the time of Ken's death, alleging that the couple had separated a month prior. Despite these accusations, Blanchard maintains that they were together, describing him as her "soulmate" and "greatest love story."