A quiet separation has detonated into a bitter custody war between singer Sia and her former husband, Daniel Bernad. What initially appeared a straightforward divorce – with Sia seeking to retain custody of their 19-month-old son, Somersault Wonder, affectionately known as ‘Summi’ – has spiraled into a deeply troubling legal battle.
The shift came abruptly in late October when Bernad, a former oncologist who relinquished his medical career during their marriage, filed for *sole* custody. His declaration painted a harrowing picture, alleging Sia posed a “serious and immediate danger” to their child. He accused her of ongoing substance abuse, a secret hospitalization, and the use of powerful barbiturates and benzodiazepines.
Bernad’s court filing asserted Sia’s behavior was “reckless, dangerous,” and demonstrated a complete disregard for Summi’s safety and well-being. He claimed her actions were not just irresponsible, but actively jeopardized their son’s future. The accusations were a stark contrast to the public image of the Grammy-nominated artist.
Sia swiftly responded, vehemently denying the claims as “entirely unfounded and misleading.” She acknowledged past struggles with addiction, but insisted she has maintained sobriety for over six months, actively participating in a comprehensive recovery program. This program includes regular testing and the consistent support of a sober companion.
Her statement framed Bernad’s actions as a calculated manipulation of her history, a cynical attempt to exploit her vulnerabilities. Sia asserted her recovery was central to her life, and the reason she initiated the divorce was due to Bernad’s own lifestyle – characterized by “nightlife and recreational drug use” – which she deemed incompatible with the stable environment she desired for Summi.
The singer accused her estranged husband of “weaponizing [her] past sobriety journey” to undermine her credibility in court and secure a financial advantage. She alleges that every attempt to gain more access to their son has been strategically timed to coincide with escalating financial demands.
Perhaps the most shocking revelation came in Sia’s filing: Bernad had been the subject of an investigation by the LAPD and the Department of Child and Family Services. The investigation centered on alleged child pornography discovered on his computer. While the investigation was ultimately closed without conclusive findings, Sia expressed profound unease about Summi spending unsupervised time with him.
Despite the inconclusive investigation, Sia wrote she remained deeply concerned. She stated that the mere possibility of exposure to such material was enough to fuel her anxieties about her son’s safety in her estranged husband’s care. The shadow of the investigation looms large over the custody dispute.
The financial stakes are undeniably high. Bernad is seeking $77,245 per month in child support, alongside $250,000 in spousal support, and substantial funds to cover legal and accounting fees. Sia claims she has already provided Bernad with $300,000 since their separation.
Sia alleges a clear pattern: every request for increased custodial time is directly linked to a corresponding financial demand. She believes Bernad’s pursuit isn’t driven by a genuine desire to nurture a parental relationship with Summi, but by a calculated attempt to extract financial gain.
Bernad’s filing also contains dramatic allegations of erratic behavior by Sia at a party in March – claims she denies – and an assertion that she was found in possession of $15,000 worth of ketamine. These accusations further escalate the tension and complexity of the case.
Neither Sia’s nor Bernad’s legal teams have offered public comment, leaving the details to unfold within the confines of the courtroom. Recently, Sia has been seen enjoying the company of reality television personality Harry Jowsey, sparking public interest in her personal life amidst the ongoing legal battle.
