Karl Malone and Demetress Bell (Photos via Getty Images)

Karl Malone’s Dark Past Resurfaces Amid Rumors of Reconciliation with Estranged Son

NBA legend Karl Malone is once again facing backlash over the most troubling chapter of his past, as online rumors swirl claiming that he has finally reconciled with the son he long ignored. The former Utah Jazz icon, now 60, has never fully escaped public scrutiny for fathering a child with a 13-year-old girl when he was a 20-year-old adult—an act that, despite its gravity, went largely unpunished and unacknowledged for years.

The scandal centers around Gloria Bell, who gave birth to Malone’s son, Demetress Bell, at just 13 years old. For decades, Malone refused to take responsibility or provide support, maintaining complete distance from the child he had fathered. He reportedly met Demetress only once during his early years, and it wasn’t until 2014—after years of silence—that the two began working toward a relationship.

Demetress, who grew up unaware of his father’s fame, originally went by the name “Demetrius” until discovering in 2012 that his name had actually been spelled “Demetress” at birth. Despite the lack of paternal involvement, he forged his own path, briefly pursuing college basketball before shifting his focus to football. His dedication paid off: he earned a scholarship to Northwestern State and eventually carved out a five-year career in the NFL.

Now, amid new rumors that the two have finally made peace, many are questioning whether reconciliation is enough to redeem a legacy tainted by silence and avoidance. While some see the long-overdue connection as a step forward, others argue it’s too little, too late. Either way, Karl Malone’s controversial past remains a stark reminder that fame doesn’t erase accountability.

Karl Malone Reportedly Announces Major Step In Relationship With His Son

According to a social media claim from Facebook user Vance Michael Collins, Malone recently revealed having made peace with Bell.

“NBA great Karl Malone states he has finally made peace with the son he conceived at age 22 with a 13 year old girl, Gloria Bell!!!” the post reads.

“Malone initially denied paternity fearing imprisonment and REFUSED to pay $125 a week in child support despite earning a total $101,723,378 throughout his NBA career! He eventually settled with the family out of court and a DNA test did in fact reveal Malone to be the father of Buffalo Bills player, Demetrius Bell. Malone now publicly acknowledges Bell as his son.”

Although Malone’s statement has yet to be confirmed, it has led to plenty of online criticism for The Mailman.

“I didn’t handle it right; I was wrong,” he said of his relationships with his children in 2018, having also denied fathering twins who were determined to be his. “Father Time is the biggest thief that’s out there, and you can’t get that back.”