What Really Happened With Skai Jackson and Deondre Burgin (Explained Simply)

If you’ve been keeping up with Hollywood lately, you know the name Skai Jackson has been everywhere. But it’s not for a new Disney reboot or a red-carpet look. Honestly, it’s much heavier than that. Most of the chatter involves her relationship with Deondre Burgin, a name that basically didn't exist in the mainstream world until he became linked to the Jessie star.

It’s been a whirlwind. A messy, confusing, and frankly heartbreaking whirlwind.

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Most fans remember Skai as the sassy Zuri Ross. Seeing her navigate a high-stakes domestic drama in real-time has been a shock to the system. People are asking: Who is this guy? Why was she arrested? And where do things stand now in 2026?

Let's break down the reality of what happened between Skai Jackson and Deondre Burgin, without the fluff.

The Viral Arrest at Universal Studios

The public first got a real glimpse into the cracks in this relationship on August 8, 2024. Skai was at Universal Studios Hollywood—a place meant for fun—but things took a turn. Security at CityWalk reportedly saw Skai and her boyfriend, who we now know was Deondre, getting into a heated argument.

According to police reports, security footage showed Skai pushing Deondre multiple times. She was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic battery.

Here is the thing: Skai denied anything physical happened. She told deputies they were "happily engaged" and expecting a baby. While the L.A. County District Attorney eventually declined to file charges because there were no injuries and no weapons, the incident pulled the curtain back on a relationship that was far from "happy."

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Who exactly is Deondre Burgin?

Before the headlines, Deondre Burgin was mostly known online as "Yerkky Yerkky." He’s a digital creator and rapper, but his digital footprint is messy.

Rumors (which have been widely discussed on platforms like Reddit and TikTok) suggest the two might have met while he was incarcerated. Some reports even claim Skai was a "pen pal" of sorts and helped him with bail. Whether that’s 100% the origin story or not, his legal history is undeniable.

• Social Media Persona: He used the handle "Yerkky Yerkky" and "Networkk Yerkk."
• Controversial Posts: Shortly after Skai confirmed her pregnancy, a post on his Facebook account allegedly called her out in a very disrespectful way. Skai and her mother, Kiya Cole, claimed he was hacked.
• Legal Record: Aside from the Universal incident, Burgin was arrested in November 2024 for a parole violation and again in 2025 for far more serious charges.

The Pregnancy and Baby Kasai

In November 2024, Skai officially told People she was expecting. She sounded genuinely excited. She talked about "embracing motherhood" and "full hearts."

On January 26, 2025, her son, Kasai, was born.

But while Skai was posting photos of tiny baby hands, the reality behind the scenes was crumbling. Deondre wasn't even at the hospital for the birth; he was reportedly in jail at the time. It's a sad detail that paints a picture of a very isolated start to motherhood.

The Restraining Order and Abuse Allegations

Things got significantly darker in May 2025. Skai filed for a restraining order against Deondre Burgin, and the details in those court documents are difficult to read.

She accused him of physical violence that occurred while she was pregnant and after the baby was born. One of the most horrifying claims was that he allegedly told her to drink bleach to terminate her pregnancy. She also detailed an incident on Mother’s Day 2025 where he allegedly grabbed her by the hair and slammed her head against a car window—all while she was holding their newborn son.

The court granted a temporary restraining order to protect both Skai and Kasai. It was a clear signal that the "happily engaged" narrative from a year prior was officially over.

Where is Deondre Burgin now?

If you're wondering why you haven't seen them together lately, it's because Deondre's legal troubles escalated beyond domestic disputes.

In July 2025, Burgin was arrested in Kentucky by an FBI task force. He was wanted in Ohio for aggravated robbery related to a violent carjacking. The victim in that case claimed he was pistol-whipped.

As of early 2026, Deondre Burgin remains entangled in the justice system. For Skai, the focus has shifted entirely to her son and her safety.

What Most People Get Wrong

There’s a lot of "victim blaming" on social media. People ask, "Why would a successful actress date someone with that background?"

It's never that simple. Domestic dynamics are complicated, especially when a child is involved. Skai has spoken before about the pressure of being a role model, but this situation showed she's also a human being who found herself in a dangerous cycle.

Moving Forward: Actionable Insights

If you’ve been following this story, it’s more than just celebrity gossip. It’s a cautionary tale about the reality of domestic cycles.

1. Documentation is Key
Skai’s ability to get a restraining order depended on detailing specific dates and incidents. If you or someone you know is in a similar spot, keeping a private, secure log of incidents is a vital first step for legal protection.

2. The Importance of Support Systems
Skai’s mother, Kiya Cole, has been a vocal defender of her daughter throughout this. Having even one person who knows the truth can be the difference between staying and leaving.

3. Recognize the Signs Early
Legal issues and "shady" social media behavior are often precursors to more volatile behavior in a relationship. Trusting your gut when someone’s past doesn't align with their present "persona" is a life-saving skill.

Skai Jackson is currently focused on her career and raising Kasai in a safe environment. She’s moving on from the Deondre Burgin chapter, but the legal and emotional aftermath will likely follow both of them for years to come.

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Next Steps for Safety and Information:
If you are experiencing domestic volatility, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). They offer 24/7 confidential support and can help you create a safety plan similar to the one Skai had to implement for herself and her son. Stay informed by following verified legal updates rather than speculative social media threads.