Barry Keoghan recently addressed online criticism regarding his parenting following the revelation of his relationship with pop star Sabrina Carpenter. The acclaimed actor, known for his role in “Saltburn,” revealed that while he treasures his privacy, he felt compelled to respond to hurtful comments labeling him a “deadbeat dad.”
During an appearance on Spotify’s The Louis Theroux Podcast, Keoghan, who has a three-year-old son named Brando with his ex-partner Alyson Kierans, expressed that the accusations against him are not only baseless but also “disgusting.” He emphasized that internet trolls often exploit his relationship with his son as ammunition in their attacks, which he finds particularly distressing.
Despite the public scrutiny, Keoghan described his relationship with Carpenter in glowing terms. “I feel incredibly blessed,” he said, applauding her as a “strong, independent lady” with immense talent. Although their romance appeared to flourish, it was later confirmed that the couple split in December 2024.
Keoghan has made it clear that he chooses to keep Brando out of the media spotlight to protect his child’s privacy, which he believes leads to misconceptions about his parenting. He spoke candidly about the challenges he faced growing up in foster care, including losing his mother to drug addiction. The scars of his upbringing, he noted, have shaped his approach to fatherhood, highlighting that he lacks a conventional “blueprint” to follow.
“In terms of judgment on my parenting, people don’t know my story,” Keoghan stated. He added that if he didn’t possess strong resilience, such harsh commentary would have derailed him. He passionately defended his commitment to being there for Brando, insisting that he is not absent in his son’s life.
The actor’s response to the backlash showcases his dedication to being a responsible father despite the challenges he has faced, while also shedding light on the detrimental effects of online trolling. Keoghan’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of parenting and the impact of public perception, and it highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in discussions about personal lives.