Gigi Hadid Shares Candid Co-Parenting Insights with Zayn Malik: Prioritizing Daughter Khai’s Happiness

Supermodel Gigi Hadid, a prominent figure in the fashion world and a devoted mother, recently offered a heartfelt glimpse into her co-parenting dynamic with ex-partner and acclaimed singer Zayn Malik. The couple, who welcomed their daughter Khai in September 2020, has navigated the complexities of raising a child together while no longer romantically involved. In a revealing interview with The Sunday Times, published on March 5, the 27-year-old opened up about how she meticulously prioritizes her now two-year-old daughter, emphasizing a commitment to Khai’s well-being above all else. Her transparency provides valuable insights into how high-profile individuals manage family life amidst demanding careers and public scrutiny.

Hadid, celebrated for her successful modeling career, discussed the intricate balancing act of motherhood and her professional commitments. She explained a practical approach to her schedule, revealing that she strategically plans her work assignments “when Khai is with her dad.” This deliberate scheduling ensures that Khai receives consistent care and attention from both parents, minimizing disruption to her routine. Gigi expressed profound happiness in this arrangement, stating that the fact her little girl “can be with both parents makes [her] very happy.” This sentiment underscores a core belief in the importance of both parents being actively involved in a child’s life, fostering a stable and loving environment despite their separate lives.

The Philosophy Behind Harmonious Co-Parenting

When asked for her top advice on successfully cooperating with an ex-partner, Gigi’s response was simple yet profound: “Just keeping the importance of the child’s happiness at the forefront. You have a long life alongside this person.” This statement encapsulates a mature and child-centric philosophy that many co-parents strive to achieve. It highlights the understanding that while romantic relationships may end, the shared responsibility and connection through a child endure for a lifetime. For Hadid, this means setting aside personal differences and focusing solely on what will contribute most positively to Khai’s emotional security and joy. This approach requires mutual respect, effective communication, and a shared vision for their daughter’s future, even if their personal paths diverge.

The sentiment also touches upon the long-term nature of co-parenting. It’s not just about getting through today or tomorrow, but about building a sustainable framework for years to come. This perspective can be particularly challenging for celebrity parents, whose every move is often scrutinized by the public. Gigi and Zayn’s commitment to this principle sets a powerful example for others navigating similar situations, underscoring that a child’s well-being should always supersede any past grievances or personal discomfort between former partners. Their ability to maintain a functional co-parenting relationship speaks volumes about their dedication to Khai.

A Journey of Love, Parenthood, and Public Scrutiny

Gigi Hadid and One Direction alum Zayn Malik’s romance began in 2015, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about celebrity pairings. Their on-again, off-again relationship captivated fans globally, culminating in the joyous arrival of their daughter, Khai, in September 2020. This period marked a new chapter for both stars, as they embraced the responsibilities of parenthood. However, their relationship eventually concluded amidst significant public attention and drama in October of the following year, barely a year after Khai’s birth.

The separation was notably complex, involving an unfortunate incident at the Hadid family’s Pennsylvania farm in 2021. Reports indicated that police were called following an altercation involving Zayn and Gigi’s mother, Yolanda Hadid. According to legal documents, Zayn was alleged to have “grabbed and shoved” Yolanda, reportedly causing her “mental anguish and physical pain.” In the wake of this highly publicized event, Gigi maintained a dignified silence on the specifics, choosing to focus her public statements on her daughter. As she conveyed to Page Six at the time, her primary concern was, and remains, “solely focused on the best for Khai.” This steadfast commitment to protecting her child from the fallout of adult issues has been a consistent theme in Gigi’s approach to motherhood and co-parenting.

The Joys and Revelations of Motherhood

In her candid interview, Gigi radiated gratitude when speaking about her daughter. “She has already given me so much,” the star affectionately remarked about Khai. She further elaborated on her evolving perspective on motherhood, sharing, “I always wanted to be a mom, but I was never obsessive about it or [thought that] I was put on this Earth to be a mom.” This honest reflection reveals a grounded approach to life, suggesting that while motherhood was always a welcome possibility, it wasn’t an all-consuming identity. Instead, it became a beautiful, natural progression in her life.

Gigi attributes her smooth transition into motherhood to her inherently organized nature. “I’ve always been quite organized, so having Khai at the time that I did was a blessing,” she explained. Her ability to manage schedules and responsibilities seamlessly has undoubtedly contributed to a calmer, more structured environment for Khai. This sense of order, combined with the profound emotional fulfillment Khai brings, has made Gigi deeply content. “I’m so glad to be a young mom,” she concluded, embracing the energy and flexibility that come with starting a family at this stage of her life and career. This perspective offers a refreshing take on the timing of motherhood, highlighting the unique advantages it can present for individuals like Gigi who are already established in their careers.

Khai’s Charming British Influences

Beyond the practicalities of co-parenting and the emotional depth of motherhood, Gigi also shared delightful anecdotes about Khai’s budding personality and unique traits. She humorously revealed how Khai is taking after her father, Zayn, who hails from Bradford, U.K. “She’s clearly a child who was grown in my stomach eating a lot of British food—breakfast, beans, curries,” Gigi chuckled, referring to Khai’s early development and subsequent food preferences. “And she still eats like that.” This sweet detail paints a vivid picture of Khai’s cultural influences, showcasing how children absorb aspects of their heritage from both parents.

Perhaps even more endearing, Gigi noted a charming linguistic quirk in her daughter. “She even says some words with a little [English] accent, which I love,” she proudly stated. This small but significant detail underscores the rich cultural tapestry that Khai is growing up within, being exposed to both American and British influences through her parents. It speaks to the beauty of blended families and the unique ways children integrate the diverse backgrounds of their loved ones. These lighthearted revelations provide a glimpse into the everyday joys of Gigi’s life as a mother, reminding us that even amidst public life, the simple, heartwarming moments are often the most cherished.

Conclusion: A Model of Modern Parenthood

Gigi Hadid’s openness about her co-parenting journey with Zayn Malik, her profound appreciation for motherhood, and her dedication to Khai’s happiness resonate deeply. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that focusing on the child’s welfare can lead to successful and harmonious co-parenting relationships, even in the most challenging circumstances. By sharing her experiences, Gigi offers not just a celebrity anecdote, but a valuable lesson in prioritizing love, stability, and growth for the next generation, proving that a united front for a child’s future is always the most rewarding path.