Wynonna Judd Reflects on Challenges with Daughter’s Addiction

Wynonna Judd has opened up about her struggles in trying to help her daughter Grace Kelley, who has battled methamphetamine addiction for years. Kelley, 30, is serving a 15-month sentence in Virginia for driving with a suspended or revoked license.

During an interview, Judd, 62, discussed how attempts to help Kelley sometimes worsened the situation. She admitted, “I enabled her, which comes down to basically giving her money for drugs,” thinking she was helping by buying a car. Judd expressed guilt over these actions.

Judd advised other parents to “work on yourself” to inspire their children. She believes showing peace may encourage children to improve themselves. Her new album, “The Hard Truth,” touches on difficult parts of her life, including her relationship with Kelley and her late mother, Naomi Judd.

Judd spoke about accepting that Kelley might not find healing, admitting, “As a mother, I’m devastated by her story, and I just had to let go.” This acceptance comes with hope for future reconciliation, dependent on Kelley achieving sobriety.

Judd acknowledged the strain of her career on Kelley, reflecting that her career made Kelley “very jealous” due to feeling neglected. Kelley resents Judd’s involvement in raising her granddaughter Kaliyah, particularly as Kaliyah needs constant care for Type 1 diabetes.

Judd and her husband Cactus Moser care for Kaliyah on their Tennessee farm. Judd focuses on giving Kaliyah a grounded childhood, with chores and outdoor activities. This lifestyle contrasts with her life on stage.

She learned Kelley’s situation has led to more complications, including another child born while Kelley was in prison. Judd described feeling helpless, despite her fame and the influence it brings in other situations.