Gypsy Rose Blanchard, previously incarcerated for her mother’s murder, has spoken up following the death of her ex-fiancé and father of her child, Ken Urker, who was found deceased in his Raceland, Louisiana, residence on his birthday. The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Department is investigating his passing and has not found any signs of foul play at this stage. Urker, aged 34, was discovered unresponsive after a wellness check was initiated due to concerns about his well-being, as he had recently mentioned thoughts of self-harm.

Upon entering the home, authorities discovered Urker deceased, along with drug-related items and a holstered firearm. The exact cause of death remains undetermined. Blanchard expressed uncertainty about whether the incident was deliberate, noting Urker’s recent struggles with mental health. She shared that Urker faced intense online scrutiny and harassment during their relationship, suggesting that this negativity may have profoundly affected him.

Blanchard and Urker’s relationship commenced in 2017 when he reached out to her while she was in prison, inspired by the HBO Documentary “Mommy Dead and Dearest.” The documentary detailed Blanchard’s mother’s deceptive behavior, which led to her tragic demise. Blanchard was convicted of second-degree murder, while her then-boyfriend, Nicholas Godejohn, received a life sentence for first-degree murder in connection with the crime. Despite a brief engagement hiatus, Blanchard and Urker eventually reunited and welcomed a daughter, Aurora Rain Urker, in December 2024.

Blanchard’s post-prison life, including her divorce and reunion with Urker, was chronicled in the docuseries “Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up.” Following Urker’s passing, Blanchard commemorated his role as a devoted parent and her eternal love. She described Urker as her soulmate, emphasizing the enduring connection they shared. Blanchard has recently opened up about her troubled past on podcasts, discussing her journey to overcome her dark history. CBC News has contacted one of Blanchard’s former representatives for additional insights.