Amid a growing custody dispute, Halle Berry has rejected the allegations that she abused her and Olivier Martinez‘ son, Maceo Robert Martinez. The actress denied her ex-husband’s claims and asked the court to restore their previous custody arrangement.
Martinez filed for sole custody of their son Maceo after alleging Berry physically abused him during a September 26 incident. A temporary restraining order later changed their custody agreement, while the actress asked the court to reinstate their 50/50 arrangement from 2023.
In a declaration filed on October 5, Berry strongly denied the allegations. As reported by People, she said, “I have never physically, emotionally, or otherwise abused Maceo. I am a victim of domestic violence, and I help victims of domestic violence. I am not a perpetrator of violence. I would never hurt our child.”
Berry denies choking son and describes escalating family conflict
Berry disputes Martinez’s account of what happened while Maceo was playing a virtual reality game. Reportedly, she said she entered his room to tell him to stop gaming and began recording him when he continued. According to Berry, Maceo grabbed her phone, and they started “playfully roughhousing.”
Berry said the situation later escalated after Maceo became upset and allegedly pushed her. Her fiancé, Van Hunt, then came upstairs and stepped between them. Berry also said she never put her hands around Maceo’s neck, choked him, restricted his breathing, or told him to tap out.
The 60-year-old submitted video evidence that she said “directly contradicts” Martinez’s version. Berry also argued against her ex receiving primary custody, citing concerns about their son’s behavior and care. The X-Men star said that Maceo is neurodivergent and needs professional support, while the parents have previously disagreed over recommended interventions.
Berry sought co-parenting therapy in 2024, but the court denied her request. She also cited a 2025 order giving her tie-breaking authority over Maceo’s mental health and educational decisions. The custody dispute remains unresolved, and the court has not yet determined the long-term arrangement.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.
