American country music artist and songwriter, Jimmie Allen, recently opened up about a tumultuous period in his life during a candid conversation with Kathie Lee Gifford on his YouTube channel. The hour-long video, titled ‘Jimmie Allen talks with Kathie Lee Gifford about his personal life and career,’ delved into his emotions and challenges.
Allen disclosed that he grappled with thoughts of suicide following accusations of sexual assault leveled against him last year. Specifically, allegations emerged from his former manager, accusing him of repeated rape. Allen admitted to engaging in a consensual sexual relationship with her but vehemently denied any non-consensual activity.
“It is deeply troubling and hurtful that someone I considered one of my closest friends, colleagues, and confidants would make baseless allegations against me. I acknowledge our consensual relationship,” Allen expressed during the conversation. He highlighted that during their relationship, she never accused him of any wrongdoing and expressed a desire to continue their friendship indefinitely. It was only after their relationship ended that she sought legal representation to request money, prompting him to question her motives.
Throughout the discussion, Allen clarified that their relationship was solely casual from his perspective, while his manager developed deeper feelings for him. The fallout from the allegations deeply affected Allen, primarily because his family’s well-being was his top priority. With his suspension from his manager, agent, and label, he faced uncertainty about providing for his family.
“The first thing my mind went to was not my career, but ‘How am I going to provide for my kids?'” Allen admitted. Feeling overwhelmed and with his support system in disarray, Allen confessed to contemplating suicide, realizing that his life insurance policy covered such an eventuality. However, with the support of friends who encouraged him to seek therapy and provided financial assistance, Allen was able to regain his footing and overcome the crisis.
In sharing his story, Allen hopes to shed light on the mental and emotional toll of false accusations and the importance of support systems during difficult times.