Keke Palmer’s Love Life: Dating History, Drama and Secrets Revealed
By Dayana PrevalFeb. 23 2025, Published 8:53 a.m. ET
The Breakdown: Let’s dive into Keke Palmer's dating history, covering her confirmed relationships and rumored romances. We offer insight into her private love life, highlighting the connections that have caught the media's attention. From high-profile relationships to assumed flings, Keke’s love life remains as intriguing as her successful career.
Keke grew from a girl into a woman right before our eyes, and this journey included seeing her date in the spotlight. Keke Palmer’s dating history is a testament to her growth and self-discovery as a woman. Here’s a list of the rumored and confirmed men Keke has dated.
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Keke Palmer wears a powersuit.
Earl “Ben J” Benjamin
The first person publicly linked to Keke Palmer was Ben J of New Boyz back in 2009. At the time, Keke was 16 years old, and Ben J was 19. Although Keke never confirmed the relationship, Ben J stated in a 2018 interview on Vlad TV that he chose not to take the relationship too seriously because of Keke’s age at the time.
Rodney King (2010-2013)
Keke Palmer began dating Rodney King when she was 16 years old. While their relationship wasn’t necessarily a secret, it wasn’t widely publicized either, possibly due to her young age when they met. Rodney was previously Keke’s manager, and the two met through a friend and co-star in 2007 while filming Jump In. Keke hinted at their relationship during a 2012 interview on Sway in the Morning. The relationship ended when Keke was 19.
In recent news, Keke released her book, Master of Me: The Secret to Controlling Your Narrative, where she revealed that she was in an inappropriate relationship when she was younger. Based on the timeline, many believe she was referring to Rodney. Keke explained that she justified dating older men because of her career and lifestyle. As a young girl growing up in the spotlight, she believed it was acceptable at the time.
YG (2014)
There isn’t much to say about the relationship between YG and Keke Palmer, aside from the fact that it ended badly. YG was secretly expecting a baby, which left Keke heartbroken.
Quincy Brown (2015)
Keke Palmer and Quincy were “together” in 2015, though the relationship was never confirmed. The two co-starred in the movie Brotherly Love, where their on-screen chemistry sparked dating rumors. Their close bond during promotional events fueled further speculation, but neither Keke nor Quincy publicly addressed a relationship.
Ty Dolla $ign (2016)
Keke Palmer and Ty Dolla $ign were spotted kissing outside of an LA club, sparking rumors that they were dating. The suspicions grew when Ty Dolla $ign featured on Keke’s song, “I Don’t Belong to You”. Yet, nothing was confirmed following the song collaboration.
Styn (2019-2020)
Styn and Keke Palmer's relationship was the most public one she had up to 2020. They shared moments on social media and were spotted enjoying coffee and showing affection. Although Keke never officially confirmed the relationship, their connection seemed clear. The two eventually went their separate ways in 2021.
Darius Jackson (2021-2023)
Keke Palmer and Darius Jackson met at a party in May 2021. A year later, Keke announced her pregnancy with their baby boy in December 2022. Sadly, trouble in paradise surfaced in July 2023 during Usher’s residency concert in Las Vegas. Keke wore a form-fitting dress, prompting Darius to comment, “It’s the outfit tho… you a mom.” The comment sparked backlash from Keke's fans, causing the situation to go viral. Shortly after, Darius deactivated his social media.
Like many couples, they experienced ups and downs, and for a while, it seemed things were improving.
Keke alleged that there had been violence throughout their relationship, leading to its end in October 2023. In November 2023, Keke filed for and won sole custody of their son, giving her the closure she needed.
Keke Palmer’s dating history is a true testament to the saying, “You live and you learn.” Although she has experienced ups and downs in her relationships, Keke has gained valuable insights about herself, both as a person and as a woman. Her journey serves as an inspiration, showing that self-growth and resilience can come from even the most challenging experiences.