Tyrese Gibson’s Daughter Shayla Chooses Father at 18, Ending Long-Running Child Support Battle

Los Angeles, December 31, 2025 – In a poignant turn of events that has captivated fans and sparked widespread discussion, actor and singer Tyrese Gibson’s eldest daughter, Shayla Somer Gibson, turned 18 in 2025 and reportedly decided to live primarily with her father. This decision marks the end of years of contentious custody disputes and child support obligations between Gibson and his ex-wife, Norma Mitchell Gibson.

Shayla, born on July 11, 2007, reached the age of majority this year, allowing her to make her own choices regarding residency. Reports indicate that her move to live with Gibson effectively terminated his monthly child support payments, which sources have described as approximately $10,000 to $13,000 per month. While exact figures from court documents vary, the payments stemmed from the couple’s 2009 divorce settlement.

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Gibson, known for his roles in the “Fast & Furious” franchise and his R&B music career, married Norma Mitchell in 2007. Their union lasted less than two years, ending in divorce amid financial and custody arrangements centered on their only child together. The post-divorce period was marked by intense legal battles.

In 2017, the custody dispute reached a fever pitch when Norma accused Gibson of physically abusing Shayla, then 10 years old. Allegations included claims that Gibson had beaten the child 12 to 16 times. The Los Angeles Department of Children and Family Services investigated but found no grounds for criminal charges. A judge denied Norma’s request for a permanent restraining order and awarded the parents 50/50 joint legal and physical custody in November 2017.

Gibson publicly expressed deep emotional distress during this period, posting tearful videos pleading to maintain his relationship with Shayla. One such video, where he cried “My Shayla!” went viral again in recent years, even becoming a TikTok sound trend. In early 2025, Gibson and Shayla laughed about the meme together during an Instagram Live, highlighting their close bond.

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The custody arrangement held for years, with both parents sharing time equally. However, tensions persisted, including accusations from Gibson that Norma violated agreements and, in 2024, claims of blackmail and fraud. Norma has maintained her side, previously speaking out about feeling abused during the marriage in interviews.

As Shayla entered adulthood in 2025, reports emerged—primarily from social media and entertainment outlets—that she chose to reside full-time with her father. This shift not only represents a personal milestone but also brings legal closure, as child support obligations typically cease when a child turns 18 in most U.S. states, absent extensions for education or other factors.

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Tyrese Gibson with his daughter Shayla Somer 🥰🖤

Neither Gibson nor Norma has issued an official statement confirming the living arrangement details, respecting Shayla’s privacy as an adult. However, Gibson has frequently shared positive moments with his daughter on social media, including celebrations for her milestones and family outings.

The story has resonated widely, reigniting conversations about parental alienation, the impact of high-profile divorces on children, and the challenges faced by fathers in custody battles. Fans have expressed support for Gibson, viewing Shayla’s reported choice as validation of his dedication as a parent.

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Gibson also fathers a younger daughter, Soraya, with his second ex-wife, Samantha Lee, from whom he divorced in 2023. He continues to navigate co-parenting and legal matters there.

As 2025 draws to a close, this chapter in Gibson’s family life appears to conclude on a note of reconciliation between father and daughter, underscoring the enduring power of parental bonds amid adversity.

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