Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who served over seven years in jail for her mother’s homicide, has spoken up following the death of her ex-fiancé and father of her child. Ken Urker, aged 34, was discovered unresponsive in his Raceland, La., residence on his birthday, October 1. The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Department is investigating his demise and, at present, has not found any signs of foul play. Deputies were called to check on Urker’s well-being after he missed work shortly after expressing suicidal thoughts. Inside the house, authorities found Urker deceased along with drug-related items and a holstered firearm, but the cause of death remains undetermined.
Blanchard indicated that Urker had been under significant pressure and cyberbullying during their relationship, which may have contributed to his passing. The couple first connected in 2017 when Urker wrote to Blanchard in prison after watching the HBO Documentary “Mommy Dead and Dearest,” detailing the tragic story of Blanchard’s mother, who allegedly inflicted harm on her daughter for years. Blanchard, who pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, had a tumultuous romantic journey with Urker, including a brief engagement pause followed by a reconciliation in 2019.
Their relationship was documented in the Lifetime series “Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up.” The couple welcomed a daughter, Aurora Rain Urker, in December 2024. Following Urker’s death, Blanchard shared that he was a devoted father and the love of her life. She described him as an exceptional individual and expressed that their bond transcends time and distance.
Blanchard has recently appeared on the “We Need to Talk” podcast, discussing her challenging upbringing, the tragic event that led to her mother’s death, and her efforts to move forward from her dark past. CBC News has reached out to one of Blanchard’s former representatives for additional insights.