Halle Berry appeared to address her ongoing custody dispute with ex-husband Olivier Martinez through a cryptic Instagram post about the relationship between fathers and children. The message comes as the former couple continues their legal battle over their 13-year-old son, Maceo, following conflicting allegations about their parenting.
Halle Berry shares cryptic post amid Olivier Martinez custody battle
Berry shared the message on Instagram Stories, writing, “If kids disrespect their moms, the root cause often traces back to the relationship with the father.” She offered no further explanation and later posted about Black Cat Awareness Month.
Meanwhile, the custody dispute has intensified since Martinez alleged last month that Berry choked their son. Martinez was temporarily granted primary custody in September and is seeking sole custody and a domestic violence restraining order.
Berry has denied the allegations, calling them “entirely meritless and deliberately misleading” through her lawyer. She also accused Martinez of “erratic, possessive and violent behavior.” Her legal team said she remained committed to protecting Maceo’s best interests despite the dispute.
In court documents, Berry claimed her son returns from visits with his father “angry and combative.” She also accused Martinez of interfering with Maceo’s education and therapy and involving him in their legal disagreements. Berry is seeking to restore their 50/50 custody arrangement while obtaining sole legal authority over her son’s education and medical care.
The former couple’s latest court proceedings began in Los Angeles Superior Court on October 19, with both parents testifying. Maceo also testified for nearly four hours, while Berry’s fiancé, Van Hunt, and her 18-year-old daughter, Nahla, appeared virtually.
Nahla Aubry, whose father is Berry’s ex Gabriel Aubry, submitted a declaration supporting her mother. “I have never seen my mom hit, slap, choke, grab, or physically abuse Maceo in any way,” she wrote.
She acknowledged that Berry can be strict about rules and respect but described her as a devoted parent. “My mom is a loving and devoted parent. … She is warm, supportive and deeply involved in our lives,” Nahla added.
Closing arguments are scheduled for Tuesday, with a ruling expected this week.
