Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who was previously imprisoned for her mother’s murder, has shared her thoughts following the death of her ex-fiancé and father of her child. Ken Urker, aged 34, was discovered unresponsive at his residence in Raceland, La., on his birthday, October 1. The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Department is conducting an investigation into his passing and has not found any signs of foul play at this stage.
Blanchard, in an exclusive conversation with People and TMZ, mentioned that an unidentified substance was found at the scene and suspects Urker may have died from an overdose. However, the authorities have not confirmed the exact cause of death.
Expressing uncertainty about the circumstances, Blanchard indicated that Urker had been struggling emotionally. She shared that Urker had faced significant scrutiny and cyberbullying during their relationship, believing that the pressure had a significant impact on him. She emphasized the need to remember the human aspect behind every online interaction and media coverage.
The couple’s relationship began in 2017 when Urker reached out to Blanchard after watching the HBO Documentary “Mommy Dead and Dearest,” which detailed Blanchard’s mother’s actions related to factitious disorder imposed on another. Blanchard, along with her then-boyfriend Nicholas Godejohn, orchestrated the murder of her mother, leading to legal consequences for both individuals.
Blanchard, who had been incarcerated, accepted Urker’s proposal in October 2018, although they briefly called off their engagement before reconciling in 2019. Their relationship faced challenges over the years, including Blanchard’s marriage to Ryan Anderson and subsequent separation in December 2023 after her release from prison.
In June 2024, the docuseries “Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up” premiered, documenting Blanchard’s reintegration into society, divorce from Anderson, and reunion with Urker. The couple welcomed a daughter, Aurora Rain Urker, in December 2024.
Following Urker’s demise, Blanchard praised him as a devoted parent and her true love. She described him as an exceptional father and expressed enduring love and connection despite his passing. Blanchard has since shared her story on the “We Need to Talk” podcast, reflecting on her challenging past and striving to move forward.
CBC News has contacted one of Blanchard’s former representatives for additional input.