Brooklyn Peltz Beckham, the eldest son of former footballer Sir David Beckham and Lady Victoria Beckham, said he had cut ties with his family, accusing his parents of years of control, public pressure and media manipulation, in a statement published on Monday (January 19).

Peltz Beckham said he no longer wants to reconcile with his parents, rejecting claims that his wife, Nicola Peltz Beckham, controls him. He said the opposite was true, alleging he had been controlled by his parents for most of his life and that stepping away from his family had brought him peace and relief from long-standing anxiety.

He also accused his family of repeatedly disrespecting his wife and prioritizing public image and brand promotion over private relationships. Peltz Beckham described incidents surrounding his wedding and later family events that he said left him feeling humiliated and excluded, including occasions where his wife was not welcome.

The eldest son said he and his wife now want a life focused on privacy and happiness, free from press attention and manipulation.

Production: Jose Pablo Diaz/Reuters