Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who served over seven years in prison for her mother’s homicide, has spoken up following the passing of her ex-fiancé and daughter’s father. Ken Urker, aged 34, was discovered lifeless in his residence in Raceland, La., on his birthday, October 1. The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Department is investigating his demise and has not found any signs of foul play at this stage. Deputies were summoned for a wellness check on Urker after he failed to show up for work shortly after mentioning self-harm. Upon entering the house, they found Urker deceased along with drug-related items and a holstered firearm. The exact cause of death remains undetermined.
Blanchard expressed uncertainty about whether Urker’s demise was intentional, citing his recent unstable mental state. She disclosed to People magazine that Urker had been heavily targeted and harassed online during their relationship. She emphasized the impact of online scrutiny and cyberbullying on individuals and hoped that his death would highlight the human aspect behind every online persona.
Blanchard and Urker’s relationship began in 2017 when he reached out to her while she was incarcerated after viewing the HBO documentary “Mommy Dead and Dearest.” The documentary delves into the story of Blanchard’s mother, Dee Dee, who was believed to have a disorder forcing her daughter into unnecessary medical interventions. Blanchard, along with her then-boyfriend Nicholas Godejohn, orchestrated Dee Dee’s murder, resulting in Godejohn’s life sentence for first-degree murder and Blanchard’s guilty plea to second-degree murder.
After a tumultuous journey, including a brief engagement pause and subsequent reconciliation, Blanchard and Urker welcomed a daughter, Aurora Rain Urker, in December 2024. Following Urker’s passing, Blanchard praised him as a devoted parent and her eternal love. She reflected on their relationship in a podcast interview, discussing her challenging past and efforts to move forward.
Blanchard’s former representative may provide additional insights upon CBC News’ request.