Jimmie Allenand his estranged wife Alexis are getting a divorce, with both parties filing just days after theyannounced their separation.
The “Down Home” singer and Alexis are parents to daughtersZara James, 18 months, andNaomi Bettie, 3, and are expecting their third child.
Allen asked for joint custody of the children, while Alexis asked to be named the primary residential parent, noting she believes it would be in the kids' “best interest,” and wants Allen to have “reasonable parenting time,” according to the documents. She also asked for child support and alimony.
Jimmie and Alexis Allen.Jeff Kravitz/Getty
“After much thought and reflection in recent months, Lex & I have made the decision to separate,” Allen wrote in an Instagram statement. “As we navigate this life change, we can also share that we will be welcoming another child together later this year.”
Alexis and Jimmie Allen.Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty
“Our number one priority is and always will be ensuring that our children are healthy, happy and loved, and we remain committed to co-parenting with love and respect for one another,” he continued. “In light of our growing family, we respectfully request privacy during this time.”
Days later, Alexis unfollowed the Grammy-nominated country singer on Instagram andshared a cryptic noteto her Instagram Story, writing, “The silence is loud enough for me.”
RELATED VIDEO: Jimmie Allen’s Wife Unfollows Him On Instagram, Posts Cryptic Note After Split and Pregnancy News
The woman — who filed her suit anonymously as Jane Doe — accused the star of groping her breasts, pushing his erect penis against her in public, masturbating in front of her at a hotel and forcing his fingers into her vagina during a May 2021 trip to film an appearance onTheEllen DeGeneresShow.
“It is deeply troubling and hurtful that someone I counted as one of my closest friends, colleagues and confidants would make allegations that have no truth to them whatsoever,” the star said in a statement to PEOPLE.
Jimmie Allen.John Shearer/WireImage
“I acknowledge that we had a sexual relationship — one that lasted for nearly two years. During that time she never once accused me of any wrongdoing, and she spoke of our relationship and friendship as being something she wanted to continue indefinitely,” the statement continued. “Only after things ended between us, did she hire a lawyer to reach out and ask for money, which leads me to question her motives. The simple fact is, her accusations are not only false, but also extremely damaging. I’ve worked incredibly hard to build my career, and I intend to mount a vigorous defense to her claims and take all other legal action necessary to protect my reputation.”
Jane Doe’s attorney Fegan disputed Allen’s claim of a financial request.
“Continue the chaos while I heal in peace,” she wrote. “My Instagram isn’t a help line so please stop messaging me about any third parties.”
Throughout his career, Allen has achieved three No. 1 singles on theBillboardCountry Airplay chart: “Best Shot,” “Make Me Want To” and “Freedom Was a Highway” withBrad Paisley. He received the CMA Award for new artist of the year in 2021 and recently opened forCarrie Underwoodon The Denim & Rhinestones Tour.
source: people.com
