On June 4, 2025, rapper and streamer DDG, whose real name is Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr., filed a counter-petition in Los Angeles, accusing singer and actress Halle Bailey of physical abuse, emotional manipulation, and threats of self-harm. The filing, which seeks a restraining order against Bailey, responds to a temporary protective order she obtained in May, accusing DDG of domestic violence in the presence of their 18-month-old son, Halo. The dispute centers on Halo’s custody, currently held exclusively by Bailey, with DDG seeking joint custody and attempting to prevent Bailey from taking Halo to Italy for filming starting June 7. Judge Latrice A.G. Byrdsong will soon rule on the travel issue, while a hearing on the restraining orders is set for June 24. The escalating accusations highlight the ongoing conflict between the former partners, who split in October 2024.
DDG alleges Bailey physically assaulted him with punches and slaps and used suicide threats to manipulate him. He also claims she restricted his access to Halo and tracked him using AirTags. Bailey’s allegations, in turn, detail episodes of violence by DDG, including assaults that caused injuries.
DDG’s Requests in the Counter-Petition:
- A 100-yard restraining order against Bailey.
- Joint custody of Halo.
- Prohibition on Bailey taking Halo to Italy.
- An end to Bailey’s social media posts about him.
The legal battle, amplified by text messages presented as evidence, reflects a relationship marked by tension since the breakup.
DDG’s Allegations of Abuse
In the counter-petition, DDG describes Bailey as physically aggressive, citing incidents of slaps and punches during arguments. A notable episode in August 2023 involves Bailey allegedly taking DDG’s firearm without permission during a dispute and leaving the home, creating a risky environment for Halo. He claims such behaviors were recurring, with Bailey threatening to kill herself with a knife or gun during moments of emotional instability.
DDG also accuses Bailey of using Halo for manipulation, citing threats of abortion during pregnancy and restrictions on his access to their son post-separation. Text messages show Bailey writing, “I’m going to kill myself tonight” and asking DDG to stay with Halo to protect him. The use of AirTags to track his cars is another issue, with DDG arguing it violated his privacy and safety.
Bailey’s Restraining Order
In May 2025, Bailey secured a temporary restraining order against DDG, alleging physical and verbal abuse. She reported an incident in January where DDG allegedly pulled her hair and slammed her head against a steering wheel, chipping a tooth. Another incident in March involved DDG destroying a security camera and throwing her phone out of a car window.
Bailey also accused DDG of inciting his followers against her, leading to online threats. The court order required DDG to stay 100 yards away from her and Halo and barred him from posting about them. Bailey was granted sole custody of Halo, a decision DDG contests in his counter-petition.
Halo’s Trip to Italy
DDG opposes Bailey’s request to take Halo to Italy for two months, where she will film a project starting June 7. Bailey argues she will have family support and a nanny, but DDG, through his attorney Larry Bakman, claims she poses a psychological risk due to her suicide threats and unstable behavior. He cites instances where Bailey drove with Halo while emotionally distressed, suggesting potential danger to the child.
Bakman argued that the lack of judicial oversight in Italy, such as child protective services, makes the trip risky. Judge Byrdsong must decide before Bailey’s departure, balancing her professional commitments with Halo’s safety.
Relationship Timeline
Bailey and DDG began dating in January 2022, appearing together at events like the 2022 BET Awards and the 2024 Grammys. Halo was born in December 2023, but the couple announced their separation in October 2024, with DDG pledging to maintain an amicable relationship.
However, tensions escalated. In March 2025, DDG released the song “Don’t Take My Son,” expressing frustration over custody. Bailey revealed struggling with postpartum depression, and DDG asked fans not to attack her, though she claims he incited online harassment.
Relationship Timeline:
- January 2022: Began dating.
- June 2022: First public appearance at BET Awards.
- December 2023: Halo’s birth.
- October 2024: Separation announced.
- May 2025: Bailey obtains restraining order.
DDG’s Judicial Evidence
DDG submitted text messages as evidence, including one where Bailey wrote, “I’m not strong enough for this world. Please stay with Halo.” Another message from May 2025 shows Bailey denying DDG’s accusations about being with another man. He also provided records of AirTags used to track him, reinforcing his stalking claims.
The evidence aims to support DDG’s argument that Bailey created an environment of fear, justifying the need for a restraining order and joint custody. DDG requests that Bailey surrender any firearms and undergo a psychological evaluation.
Bailey’s Stance
At the June 4 hearing, Bailey’s attorney, Terry Levich Ross, refuted DDG’s allegations, calling them “inaccurate.” Bailey has not publicly commented on the new claims, but her legal team maintains she is focused on protecting herself and Halo. The restraining order against DDG remains, limiting his contact with his son.
Bailey proposed supervised weekly visits for DDG and requested that he be prohibited from taking Halo out of Los Angeles, citing fears of abduction. She submitted photos of injuries as evidence of abuse she endured.
Social Media Reaction
The dispute has divided fans online. Some support Bailey, emphasizing the severity of her abuse allegations, while others question her narrative based on DDG’s claims. DDG’s May posts downplayed the conflict, while his mother, Tonya Granberry, criticized “lies” without directly naming Bailey.
Bailey reported facing online harassment, attributing it to DDG’s provocation. The public exposure intensifies pressure on both, with Halo at the center of discussions.
Judicial Developments
The June 24 hearing will determine whether permanent restraining orders are issued. A mediation on May 30 failed to resolve custody, and the decision on Halo’s Italy trip will be announced before June 7. DDG seeks regular access to Halo and restrictions on Bailey, while she maintains sole custody and judicial protection.
The court is reviewing texts, photos, and accounts to assess Halo’s safety. The complexity of the case, with mutual accusations, requires balancing protection and parental rights.
Focus on Halo’s Protection
Halo is the priority for both sides. Bailey claims DDG poses a physical threat, while DDG argues Bailey is emotionally unstable. The court is considering incidents like DDG’s destruction of property and Bailey’s threats, seeking the best outcome for the child.
With mediation unsuccessful, the judicial ruling will define custody and restrictions, potentially requiring psychological evaluations for both parents.
Raising Awareness About Domestic Violence
High-profile cases like Bailey and DDG’s highlight the prevalence of domestic violence. In the U.S., 1 in 4 women experiences partner abuse, according to the CDC. The case’s visibility may encourage victims to seek help but also subjects the parties to public scrutiny. Resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline provide 24/7 support.