In a significant moment, actress Kelly Rutherford was seen with her son Hermés at the Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring-Summer 2025 show during Paris Fashion Week. This marks the first public appearance of Rutherford with one of her children in nearly a decade. The reunion comes after years of legal battles over custody with her ex-husband, German businessman Daniel Giersch. Initially granted joint custody, Rutherford faced numerous challenges that led to her relocating to Monaco to be closer to her children. Her ongoing legal struggle has been both emotionally and financially draining, leading to personal bankruptcy. Despite these hardships, Rutherford maintains a positive outlook on her current relationship with her children.

A Decade of Legal Challenges and Personal Growth

Rutherford's journey through a tumultuous custody battle has been marked by significant milestones and setbacks. After initially obtaining a 50-50 custody agreement, she encountered complications when her ex-husband’s work visa was revoked, preventing him from returning to the U.S. Consequently, the judge ruled that the children should reside full-time with their father in Monaco. This decision forced Rutherford into an intense and costly legal battle, ultimately leading to her filing for bankruptcy in 2013. She revealed that all her earnings from various projects were spent on this fight.

The custody dispute took a dramatic turn when Rutherford was accused of abducting her children after not sending them back to Monaco following a six-week visit in the U.S. Although she lost custody, the judge mandated joint decision-making between her and Giersch. Over the years, Rutherford has spent approximately $2 million on legal fees. Eventually, she moved to Monaco to spend more time with her children, Hermés and Helena. Reflecting on this period, she expressed gratitude for the present and her strong bond with her kids. "Sometimes we just need to retreat and be with our kids and heal," she said, emphasizing the importance of family unity and personal healing.

Public Appearances and Moving Forward

After years of private life and legal struggles, Rutherford made a notable return to the spotlight with her son Hermés at several high-profile fashion events in Paris. Their presence at the Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring-Summer 2025 show signifies a new chapter in Rutherford's life. It marks the first time in a decade that she has publicly appeared with either of her children. This event highlights her resilience and determination to balance her career and family life.

Rutherford's recent interviews reveal a shift in focus towards personal growth and professional endeavors. She mentioned that her teenage children are becoming more independent, allowing her to concentrate on her own interests and responsibilities. "My day-to-day life has recently been more about me, my dogs, working, and traveling," she shared. Despite the challenges of the past, Rutherford remains optimistic about the future. She emphasized the importance of focusing on positive aspects and maintaining a strong connection with her children. "We were never completely separated," she reflected, underscoring the enduring strength of their family bond.