Family drama

David Beckham breaks silence after Brooklyn Beckham’s explosive statement: 'Kids make mistakes'


Brooklyn shared a lengthy statement saying that he had 'overwhelming anxiety' growing up in his parents' household


David Beckham shares an adorable moment with his dog Simba on International Dog Day© Getty Images
Maria LoretoSenior Writer
JANUARY 20, 2026 10:30 AM EST

David Beckham is breaking his silence following his son's explosive statements. Yesterday, Brooklyn Beckham addressed the rumors of an ongoing feud with his family, sharing his perspective for the first time throughout the whole ordeal, which has developed openly throughout the past year. Today, David appears to have referenced Brooklyn's statements in an appearance on CNBC's Squawk Box

Brooklyn Beckham accuses David and Victoria of 'disrespecting' Nicola, says he felt ‘humiliated’ and blames them for 'overwhelming anxiety'© Capital Pictures
David Beckham has addressed his kids for the first time since Brooklyn's explosive statement

David was discussing social media and its strengths and challenges. “I have always spoken about social media and the power of social media. For the good and for the bad,” he said. 

He made a specific reference to kids and how social media can take a toll on them. “The bad we’ve talked about with what kids can access these days, it can be dangerous,” he said. “But what I have found personally, especially with my kids as well, use it for the right reasons. I’ve been able to use my platform and my following for UNICEF. And it has been the biggest tool to make people aware of what’s going on around the world for children.”

Nicola Peltz shares her perspective after Brooklyn Beckham says she was ‘disrespected’ by his family© Linnea Stephan/BFA.com/Shutterstock
Brooklyn says his parents have disrespected Nicola throughout their relationship

"And I have tried to do the same, I’ve tried to do the same with my children, to educate them,” he continued. “They make mistakes, but children are allowed to make mistakes. That is how they learn. That is what I try to teach my kids.”

“You sometimes have to let them make those mistakes as well." 

Brooklyn's explosive statements regarding his parents

This marks David's first public reference to his kids following Brooklyn's shocking statements on his Instagram stories, which were shared this past Monday. The emotional post marked the first time Brooklyn addressed and confirmed the rift with his family. In it, he discussed his parents' influence on his life as he grew up and their animosity towards his wife, Nicola Peltz Beckham.

Brooklyn discussed his parents' opposition to his partner, using his wedding as an example, where his mother reportedly hijacked his first planned dance with Nicola. “I’ve never felt more uncomfortable or humiliated in my entire life,” he wrote.

Brooklyn Beckham takes a spin on a vintage motorcycle as family drama escalates© Charles Sykes/Bravo via Getty Im
Brooklyn's statements mark the first time he's addressed the rift with his family to the public

“My wife has been consistently disrespected by my family, no matter how hard we’ve tried to come together as one." 

Brooklyn also opened up about experiencing anxiety throughout his life, and how by keeping his distance from his family, he's managed to feel better. “I grew up with overwhelming anxiety. For the first time in my life, since stepping away from my family, that anxiety has disappeared. I wake up every morning grateful for the life I chose, and have found peace and relief.”

David Beckham and Victoria Beckham pose alongside their children, Harper Beckham, Romeo Beckham, and Cruz Beckham, upon arrival to attend the world premiere of the three-part documentary series 'Victoria Beckham'© ADRIAN DENNIS
Throughout the past year, Brooklyn and Nicola haven't attended any of the public events attended by his family

© ¡HOLA! Reproduction of this article and its photographs in whole or in part is prohibited, even when citing their source.