In a rare, deeply personal moment on her podcast "Khloé in Wonder Land," Khloé Kardashian opened up about a life-altering choice. On the July 30 episode, the reality star and entrepreneur got candid about her decision to take on the role of primary caretaker for Amari Thompson, the 18-year-old brother of her ex, NBA player Tristan Thompson.
Amari, who lives with a severe form of epilepsy known as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), was previously under the full-time care of his and Tristan's mother, Andrea Thompson. But everything changed in January 2023, when Andrea suddenly passed away from a heart attack.
© SETH BROWARNIK/STARTRAKS"Andrea was the sole caretaker for Amari," Khloé explained. "When she passed, we — me, Tristan, my whole family — took Amari back with us to the States."
But with Tristan's career keeping him constantly on the road, the question of who would care for Amari day to day became critical. "Tristan is in the NBA, and he is in a different state literally every other day... It's just not conducive for Amari to be on that many planes," Khloé said, noting that Amari experiences several seizures a day and travel is not an option.
So Khloé made the decision. "Amari stays in LA with me, and I have chosen to take care of him and be there for him, because it's not good that he travels."
© Nisha JohnyWhy Khlosé Said Yes
The internet loves a juicy headline, and many people have wondered why Khloé would take on such responsibility for an ex's sibling. But Khloé's answer is simple: family ties don't always follow the rules of romantic timelines.
"People are always like, why did I do that? Me and Tristan aren't together, why would I take on helping with Amari?" she shared. "But when I met Tristan's family almost 10 years ago, I formed a real connection with Andrea. I would help her with Amari medically... so I was very much involved in all of his medical appointments when Andrea was here."
© Backgrid/The Grosby GroupHer bond with Andrea wasn't based on her relationship status with Tristan. Now that Andrea is gone, Khloé says that love and commitment continue. "Me being in a relationship or not with Tristan, I still have this family I've spent so many years with... Amari deserves someone who will be there for him."
A Powerful Example for Her Kids
Khloé also sees her caregiving as a gift for her children, True, 6, and Tatum, 2, whom she shares with Tristan.
"I think it's so important for my kids, my nieces and nephews, to be exposed to all different types of people in the world," she said. "It teaches everyone compassion, understanding... Amari is disabled, sure, but he's also just like us."
© Backgrid/The Grosby GroupAnd that message of empathy is something she's modeling every day. "I love seeing how Amari lights up when he's around the kids. He can't verbally talk, but... he can definitely express himself, and you see the glimmer in his eyes." Khloé credits two "sensational caretakers" who help her support Amari's medical and daily needs. But this isn't just logistics, it's a fully integrated family life.
She celebrated his 18th birthday alongside Tristan and posted touching behind-the-scenes moments from Amari's dance recital, where the two took a selfie with her mom, Kris Jenner, backstage. In a heartfelt caption, she wrote, "Thank you for always supporting ALL of us always."
Khloé also reflected on her bond with Amari on "The Kardashians," calling him "one of the most special souls I have ever met."
