Marvel star Jeremy Renner has spoken out against the abuse claims made by his ex-wife Sonni Pacheco during their custody battle, calling them false and harmful. The actor, known for playing Hawkeye in the Avengers films, said the accusations were exaggerated for legal gain and media attention.
Renner and Pacheco divorced in 2014 after less than a year of marriage. Their custody battle over daughter Ava, now 12, lasted until 2019. Pacheco accused Renner of threatening to kill her, substance abuse, and reckless behavior. The actor denied all claims, saying the truth was lost in sensational headlines.
Jeremy Renner Denies All Allegations
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Renner addressed the accusations for the first time. He said being falsely accused was painful, especially as a public figure.
“Being accused of things youโve not done, right? That doesnโt feel good to anybody. It certainly doesnโt feel good when youโre a celebrity and itโs known to everybody.”
Pacheco had claimed Renner once put a gun in his mouth and fired it while their daughter was in the house. She also accused him of drug use and leaving substances where Ava could find them. Renner called these claims “dramatizations” meant to influence court decisions.
“Itโs all the salaciousness that happens out there. Itโs clickbait, and it hurts my feelings and it dehumanizes people.”
The Custody Battle and Co-Parenting Today
Despite the bitter legal fight, Renner and Pacheco now share joint custody of Ava. The actor said their relationship has improved, and they focus on their daughterโs well-being.
“Her mum and I get along very well, and weโre in each otherโs lives. Itโs lovely.”
When asked if he feared losing custody, Renner dismissed the idea.
“Thatโs just lawyers talking. Thatโs lawyers arguing. The custody was easy.”
Pacheco has since moved on, welcoming a new child with hockey player Nate Thompson in 2023. Renner said she even sends him updates about her new baby.
How the Snowplow Accident Changed His Life
Renner also spoke about his near-fatal snowplow accident in 2023, which left him with severe injuries. He said the incident made him rethink his life and focus on being a better father.
“Itโs an honour to be alive.”
The actor has dedicated his upcoming memoir, My Next Breath, to his daughter Ava, calling her his “lifeforce.” He also works with a foundation supporting at-risk youth, shifting his energy toward recovery and community work.
Public Reaction and Media Influence
Renner said he ignores negative media coverage and online comments.
“It doesnโt matter to me what people say. Theyโre saying it for their own reasons and not for the right reasons or the truth.”
Fans have largely supported Renner, especially after his accident. Some criticized the timing of the abuse claims, seeing them as attempts to damage his reputation.
Also read: Jeremy Renner to Return as Mike McLusky in Mayor of Kingstown Season 4 Following Paramount Renewal
Renner will appear in Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, set to release in December 2025. He continues to recover from his injuries while balancing acting and fatherhood.
