Colleen Conrad Offers Support to Collin Gosselin Following Memoir Release
Jon Gosselin's ex-girlfriend expresses pride and love for Kate Gosselin's estranged son after his book detailing alleged childhood abuse was published.
Colleen Conrad, the ex-girlfriend of Jon Gosselin, has publicly supported his estranged son, Collin Gosselin, following the release of Collin's memoir.
Collin's memoir details alleged instances of abuse he experienced from his mother, Kate Gosselin. Conrad shared her sentiments on Instagram, accompanied by a montage of photos.
“Collin, where do I even begin? ❤️ A #1 New York Times bestselling author! Who would have imagined that all those years ago? I am so incredibly proud of you!” Conrad wrote. “When you came into my life, you had already been through more than any child should ever have to experience. I didn’t know what the years ahead would bring, but I knew I loved you and wanted you to feel safe, loved, and supported.”
Conrad reflected on Collin's journey, stating that watching him grow into a young man has been a significant joy. She noted the emotional experience of reading his book, which brought back both positive and challenging memories from a time when she was also navigating personal difficulties, including breast cancer and the end of her relationship with Jon Gosselin.
“The Audible version didn’t include your acknowledgments. When my book finally arrived, I read what you had written to me and cried all over again,” she shared. Conrad concluded her message with a pledge of ongoing support: “No matter how old you get or where life takes you, I will always be your mom. I will always love you and cheer you on. Congratulations, Collin. You deserve all the happiness and success life has to offer. Love you always. ❤️”
Collin responded to Conrad's post, expressing his gratitude and affection. “I love you ❤️ I loved that you say you needed me too. It just shows how meant to be everything was. If I could’ve gone through all the hard things again I’d gladly do it, because it led me to you. You’re kind, loving, funny and you love in a way that a real mother should,” he wrote. He added, “I’ll forever be grateful to have you in my life. Thank you for listening, showing up, and never giving up on that young, broken, hurting little boy who didn’t believe in himself. Sometimes all we need is to know our mom believes in us and it gives us enough faith in ourselves ❤️❤️.”
Jon Gosselin was granted sole custody of Collin in 2018. Despite Jon marrying Stephanie Lebo in November 2025, Collin has maintained a close relationship with Conrad, who dated Jon from 2014 to 2021.
Collin's memoir, titled “In the Shadow of Eight: Surviving the Reality of My Childhood,” details his allegations of mistreatment, including being confined to a “small holding cell” for two years and isolated from his siblings. Kate Gosselin has denied these claims, suggesting they stem from mental health issues. Jon Gosselin has publicly supported his son and has indicated potential legal action against his ex-wife.