Alec Baldwin has opened up about his painful divorce from Kim Basinger and how it hurt his relationship with their daughter, Ireland Baldwin. He reflected on the difficult custody battle and the lasting impact it had on Ireland. While things are better now, he still regrets how it all unfolded.
A messy divorce with Kim Basinger
The Hollywood actor, 66, was married to Kim, 71, from 1993 to 2002. They had their daughter Ireland in 1995. Their marriage ended in a difficult and public divorce in 2002. The two fought a long custody battle, which became a media sensation. The legal fight dragged on for years, making things even harder for their family. Alec has since shared how challenging that time was for him and his daughter.
Alec admitted the split had lasting effects on Ireland. He shared his feelings on his TLC reality show The Baldwins. He explained that the custody battle went on for seven years. He said the financial part took about a year and a half, but the rest was all about custody. The media covered every detail, turning their private struggle into a public spectacle. Alec believes this had a negative impact on his relationship with Ireland. He described the experience as “insane and really tough.”
Baldwin regret the past
Alec said one of his biggest regrets was how the situation affected Ireland. But now, things are better between them. He said that Ireland, now 28, has a good relationship with him. She loves her younger siblings and is sweet to them. However, Alec admitted she is not fully part of their “pack.” Despite this, he is grateful they have rebuilt their bond. His focus now is on being there for her and his family.
Alec is now married to Hilaria Baldwin. They have seven children together. He has spoken about how much he enjoys fatherhood and how different his life is now. Though he has regrets about the past, he continues to move forward and prioritize his family.
Kim Basinger speaks out
Earlier this week, Kim also spoke about Alec. She praised him and said they have a “great relationship” now. In an interview with Variety, Kim shared that she respects where Alec is in his life today. She acknowledged that they don’t spend holidays together but said they do talk. According to Kim, Alec still calls her, and their relationship is now cordial and even loving in some ways. She emphasized that they share a daughter, which will always connect them. She also wished him nothing but good things for the future.
Kim also acknowledged Alec’s struggles. She seemed to reference the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. She said Alec has been through a lot in recent years. This statement showed that despite their past conflicts, she has empathy for what he has faced. Kim also spoke positively about Alec’s wife, Hilaria Baldwin. She said that Hilaria seems to have a great handle on their busy family life. “More power to her,” Kim added.
Alec’s infamous voicemail to Ireland
Their relationship has come a long way since a controversial moment in 2007. Alec made headlines for a leaked voicemail he left for 11-year-old Ireland. He called her a “rude, thoughtless little pig” for not answering his call. The voicemail quickly spread across the media, causing a scandal. Alec also criticized Kim in the message, calling her “a thoughtless pain in the a**.” The moment was a low point in his relationship with Ireland. It took years for them to heal and move past it.
Despite their rocky past, Alec and Ireland have repaired their relationship. He continues to regret how his divorce played out but is grateful for where they stand today. He has worked hard to be a better father and maintain a strong bond with her. While their family history is complicated, Alec hopes to keep building positive relationships with all of his children. For him, the most important thing now is moving forward.
