When you think of Skai Jackson, you might remember the sparkling smile of Zuri Ross from Disney Channel’s hit show “Jessie.” But behind the scenes, Skai’s story is far more complex—and more inspiring—than anyone could have imagined.

A Star Is Born

Born April 8, 2002, in Staten Island, New York, Skai Jackson wasn’t expected to be in the spotlight. Raised by her mother, Kia Cole, Skai was just a regular kid from the boroughs—until fate intervened. At only nine months old, Skai began modeling, landing her first commercial at age one. By four, she was acting in movies, and soon after, a Band-Aid jingle made her a household name in her elementary school.

But Skai’s journey was never just about fame. She worked hard before she even understood what work meant, appearing in shows like “Boardwalk Empire” and voicing characters on “Dora the Explorer.” Her mother, Kaia Cole, was her manager, advocate, and protector, fiercely defending Skai from online trolls and guiding her through the unpredictable world of child stardom.

Disney Channel Breakthrough

At age nine, Skai auditioned for Disney Channel’s “Jessie,” landing the role of Zuri Ross—the sassy youngest child adopted from Uganda. The show premiered in 2011 and quickly became a sensation, running for four seasons and nearly 100 episodes. On set, Skai found a second family in co-stars Peyton List, Cameron Boyce, Karan Brar, and Debbie Ryan. They played basketball during breaks, pranked each other, and created memories that would last a lifetime.

But not everything was perfect. Off camera, Skai struggled to balance her public persona with her desire to just be a normal kid. She faced bullying at school for looking younger than her classmates, forcing her to choose between staying in New York or moving to Los Angeles to fully embrace her Disney career. She chose Hollywood, and her life changed forever.

Growing Up in the Spotlight

For seven years, Skai lived the demanding schedule of a young actor, working Monday through Friday, surrounded by adults. She idolized Disney legends like Raven-Symoné and dreamed of making her own mark. But as she grew older, the pressure mounted. By age 16, Skai decided it was time to leave Disney and pursue new opportunities. She wanted to transition into more mature roles, but the journey was anything but easy.

Social media became both a blessing and a curse. Skai joined Twitter at age 10 and Instagram at 11, quickly encountering hate comments and online bullying. But she refused to back down. In 2016, Skai famously called out rapper Azealia Banks for racist comments, sparking a viral feud that drew national attention. Skai’s mother jumped into the fray, defending her daughter and proving that the Jackson family doesn’t shy away from standing up for what’s right.

Rumors of tension with co-star Debbie Ryan circulated, although both stars later appeared to reconcile. Drama with rapper Bhad Bhabie erupted online, with accusations and denials flying back and forth. Through it all, Skai maintained her composure, focusing on her career and her message of empowerment.

Breaking Free and Facing Adversity

In 2020, Skai Jackson competed on “Dancing with the Stars,” finishing in fifth place and proving she was more than just a Disney Channel alum. She published her book, “Reach for the Skai: How to Inspire, Empower, and Clap Back,” sharing her journey and advice for young fans navigating the pressures of fame and social media.

But controversy followed. Skai faced criticism for a $5 raffle entry for an Apple MacBook giveaway, which some accused of being a scam. She clarified that all funds went toward the prize, and any surplus would fund future giveaways. Despite the backlash, Skai continued to rise, becoming the face of Canerro Fragrance, traveling to Paris, and booking new acting roles.

Her dramatic chops shone in “The Watsons Go to Birmingham” and the crime drama series “BMF.” In 2024, Skai starred in “The Man in the White Van,” a thriller that pushed her into more mature territory. She took on an even darker role in “Shirrose,” an R-rated action film about four friends in Thailand, one of whom is kidnapped by a cartel.

A Life Upended: Arrest and Motherhood

But nothing could prepare Skai’s fans for what happened next. On August 8, 2024, Skai was arrested at Universal Studios Hollywood after security footage allegedly showed her pushing her boyfriend during an argument. Both Skai and her boyfriend denied any physical altercation, insisting they were happily engaged and expecting a baby. The Los Angeles County District Attorney declined to file charges due to lack of evidence.

Just months later, in November 2024, Skai confirmed her pregnancy. The girl who once sang the Band-Aid jingle and danced on national television was about to become a mother. The identity of the father, digital content creator DeAndre Bergen (aka Yorkie), raised eyebrows due to his reported legal troubles and history of incarceration.

In January 2025, Skai welcomed her son, Casai. But the joy of motherhood was short-lived. By mid-2025, Skai filed for a restraining order against Bergen, alleging abuse. Court documents described a disturbing relationship, with Skai fearing for her safety and that of her son. The restraining order was granted, and Skai became a single mother, navigating the challenges of raising her baby alone.

Resilience and Renewal

Despite everything, Skai Jackson remains remarkably resilient. At 23, she looks as youthful and vibrant as ever, her skin flawless and her energy infectious. Her net worth is estimated at $500,000, with income from acting, endorsements, social media, and book sales.

Skai has kept her personal life private since the abuse allegations, focusing on her son and her healing. Industry insiders hint at a possible streaming series in development, with Skai serving as both star and producer. She’s also rumored to be working on a follow-up book addressing toxic relationships and single motherhood.

Her mother, Kia Cole, continues to support her, helping raise Casai while Skai rebuilds her life. Through it all, Skai’s message remains clear: Your past does not define you. Your mistakes do not destroy you. The ability to start over is always within reach.

What’s Next for Skai Jackson?

Skai Jackson’s story is far from over. She’s no longer just the sassy kid sister from “Jessie” or the teen Disney star trying to break free. She’s a grown woman, a survivor, and a single mother navigating fame, controversy, and the complexities of raising a child in the public eye.

Her greatest performance isn’t on screen—it’s in her everyday resilience, her fight to protect her son, and her determination to inspire others. Skai is living proof that you can come from the bright lights of Disney Channel and still find your way through the darkness.

As fans watch her journey unfold, one thing is certain: Skai Jackson is not defined by her past, but by her strength to move forward. And that, more than any role she’s ever played, is her true legacy.