Kirk Franklin’s Son Says He Was ‘Beat Black and Blue’ Growing Up

Kirk Franklin’s eldest son, Kerrion Franklin, claims he suffered serious physical abuse as a child, including being “beat black and blue,” by those he refers to as “parentals.” His recent social media post includes graphic photos of scars on his back and a lengthy message describing wounds and trauma from early childhood.

Kirk Franklin’s Son Speaks Out

Kerrion Franklin shared on Instagram that the scars are proof of abuse dating from first grade. He wrote, “These scars all over my back are not sex stories … being beat black and blue since 1st grade.” He added that pain, not laughter, shaped many of his earliest memories.

He said the adults responsible “enjoyed expressing rotten Rage in many ways as (punishment/Consequence)” and that compassion was absent. The post suggested that the abuse involved multiple people who watched over him when his parents were occupied. Kerrion said, “These scars are the only memories I have of my childhood.”

In contrast, Kirk Franklin has publicly denied any physical abuse. In a 2021 statement he said, “there hasn’t been any physical abuse.” The gospel singer has apologized for a profanity-laden recording that leaked that same year, in which he appeared to threaten his son.

Kerrion told interviewer Larry Reid in 2021 that he was left in the care of various people, some of whom mistreated him physically. “As a kid, right? My dad was focused on becoming his best self … so I was babysat by a lot of people … and that kind of put me in some … unfortunate, rough situations.”

The Instagram post stirred controversy. Some fans expressed disbelief. Others called for professional help. Kirk Franklin, in interviews since, has emphasized his love for Kerrion and said their relationship has been a process of misunderstanding and healing.

Neither Franklin nor Kerrion has released independent documentation such as medical records to public review. Experts in child welfare say social media claims can spark investigations, but legal proof is often required.