LOS ANGELES — Halle Bailey, the 23-year-old Grammy-nominated singer and breakout star of The Little Mermaid, has filed for a restraining order against her former partner, citing allegations of emotional abuse and physical violence. Newly obtained court documents reveal disturbing details, including claims that Bailey suffered a chipped tooth during one confrontation.
The filings, submitted in Los Angeles UNITED STATES Superior Court last week, describe a pattern of controlling behavior that escalated into physical altercations. Bailey’s legal team included photographs of her injuries and text messages allegedly sent by her ex-partner, which prosecutors may use as evidence if the case moves forward.
What the Court Papers Reveal
The Halle Bailey restraining order documents (Case No. [REDACTED]) outline multiple incidents over a six-month period. In one sworn statement, Bailey recounts an argument that turned physical:
“He grabbed my arm so hard it left bruises, then shoved me against a wall. When I tried to leave, he threw a glass bottle that hit my mouth. I felt my tooth crack—it was terrifying.”
Dental records confirm Bailey received emergency treatment for a chipped front tooth the following morning, corroborating her account. The documents also reference repeated harassment, including threats to leak private photos and disrupt her filming schedule for The Color Purple musical remake.
Legal experts say the restraining order—which prohibits the accused from contacting Bailey or coming within 200 yards of her home, workplaces, or studios—is likely to hold. “Given the medical evidence and witness statements, this isn’t just a ‘he said, she said’ situation,” says family law attorney Rebecca Shaw. “The court takes these allegations seriously, especially with documented injuries.”
Why Bailey Waited to Speak Out
Sources close to Bailey say she hesitated to take legal action for months, fearing backlash. “Halle didn’t want to be seen as a ‘difficult’ Black woman in Hollywood,” says a friend who asked to remain anonymous. “But after the tooth incident, her team intervened. They told her, ‘This isn’t just about you—it’s about setting an example for other young women.’”
Bailey’s silence echoes a troubling trend: A 2023 UCLA study found that 68% of Black female abuse survivors delay reporting due to fears of not being believed or harming their careers.
Fans Rally Behind Her
When news of the Halle Bailey restraining order broke, social media erupted with support. #ProtectHalle trended on Twitter, with fans sharing resources for domestic violence survivors.
“The way she played Ariel with such joy while dealing with this privately? She’s stronger than the military,” tweeted @HalleForGood.
Even Bailey’s Little Mermaid co-star, Jonah Hauer-King, subtly showed solidarity by liking an Instagram post about the case.
What’s Next?
The accused has 30 days to respond to the restraining order. If violated, he could face jail time. Meanwhile, Bailey has resumed filming The Color Purple, with on-set security heightened.
Key Takeaways:
- The Halle Bailey court documents include medical proof of injury.
- Legal experts believe the restraining order will be upheld.
- Bailey’s case highlights the unique pressures Black women face when reporting abuse.