Internet chokes up as Kelly Rutherford reflects on ‘heartbreaking’ time after losing custody of children

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: American actress Kelly Rutherford is back in the spotlight after a decade of keeping a low profile.

Her dazzling appearances at both Paris and New York Fashion Weeks have captivated audiences.

The star is showcasing her talent in the French comedy 'Escort Boys', signaling her successful return to the small screen.

At the age of 55, Rutherford's story is not just about her professional comeback.

She has also shared her personal journey, revealing the heartache of losing custody of her children in 2015 and her subsequent journey to rebuild her life.

Kelly Rutherford's secret to looking elegant

The 55-year-old actress, who has always "loved fashion", looked stunning, making a glamorous return to the public eye after a decade focused primarily on parenting, per People.

When asked about her secret to maintaining her stunning appearance, she said, "I really don't know. I think the secret is just not to think about it too much and to enjoy your life and find your peace and your happiness somehow."

"I think it's also my lifestyle. I eat healthy. And also, my mom looks really young for her age, so maybe it's genetics."

Kelly also shares that her interest in style predates her fame as a fashion icon on 'Gossip Girl'.

"It's just the dreaminess of it all," she shared. "I used to make vision boards. I loved creating lives and creating worlds from the time I was very young."

"Not just fashion, but I've also always loved design and architecture. I love beauty, I love cities."

"I think just tuning that out and enjoying your day and enjoying your life and enjoying your age, whatever age you are, and being really in gratitude for your health and wellbeing is key," she added while explaining her style.

"It's all a blessing at the end of the day," she said while adding, "Social media has always been an organic [thing] for me."

Kelly Rutherford's 'heartbreaking' story of rebuilding life

Kelly Rutherford, former 'Gossip Girl' star, has reportedly been in a 15-year-long custody battle with ex-partner Daniel Giersch.

The couple was granted 50-50 joint custody of their two children, but due to Giersch's revoked work visa, the children were ordered to live with him in Monaco.

The pair had their first child, Hermes Gustaf Daniel Giersch, in October 2006.

While expecting their second child, Rutherford reportedly filed for divorce in December 2008, leading to a custody dispute over their son and unborn child.

Their daughter, Helena, was born in June 2009.

Rutherford spent considerable time and money trying to regain full custody, even facing an abduction accusation after keeping the children in the US post a visit.

After spending nearly $2 million in legal fees and declaring bankruptcy, Rutherford stepped out of the spotlight. A decade later, she reflects on her journey to find peace and happiness.

"Sometimes we just need to retreat and be with our kids and just heal and take time for ourselves," Rutherford shared with PEOPLE from her residence in Monaco, her home base when she’s not on the move.

Following the heart-wrenching verdict, she has strived to make the most of the past ten years, primarily focusing on motherhood and pursuing ventures outside of show business.

"It's been really healthy for me, and really good," she reflected.

What is Kelly Rutherford up to?

The actress, who initially rose to fame through soap operas and dramas such as 'Melrose Place' and later captivated a new audience with the popular show 'Gossip Girl' in 2005, is subtly stepping back into the limelight.

She has been spotted at Paris Fashion Week, where her classic style sense reportedly received high praise. In addition, she has made a return to television, featuring in the French series 'Escort Boys'.

"My kids are getting older, and they're sort of like, 'Okay, get on with your life'," she shared.

"They're teenagers now, and they've got their friends and their stuff. So my day-to-day has recently been more about me and my dogs, working and traveling."

She added, "And being there for my children ... when they have time for me. They still need you when they're teens, but it's different."

"I think you just have to be there for them when they do need you. It's natural for them to grow up and have their lives. It's a change, but it's a beautiful change." 

Reflecting on the past, she candidly expressed the anguish she experienced during the publicized custody dispute.

"Yes, it was a challenging time. It was a heartbreaking time. But I focus on the good most of the time, I really do," Kelly shared.

"I'm very thankful of where we are. I have a great relationship with my kids. We were never completely separated."

Internet reacts to Kelly Rutherford's 'heartbreaking' story

Public sentiment has been stirred, with many expressing their support and admiration for Kelly.

A Facebook user wrote, "I’m so glad this ended well. I remember reading about it and being horrified."

Another person said, "I’m glad she was able to be a part of her kids lives. So sorry for what she had to go through."

"I have often wondered how this played out. So thankful she chose to move to Monaco and have a life with her children!!" opined another.

Another person wrote, "Still makes no sense how she lost custody in the USA where the kids were born and she is from."

"I need to read this I remember a lot of the older backstory n it was sad But I haven’t heard any more in years. Hoping for a happy ending," said another. 

One person expressed, "Kelly is an amazing and strong woman. I am glad she has a good relationship with her children."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.