Jewel, the four-time Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, has had a tumultuous past filled with physical and emotional abuse. Growing up in a traditional Mormon family in Alaska, Jewel faced challenges that shaped her into the resilient artist she is today.
Her mother left the family when she was young, causing her father Atz Kilcher to become physically abusive towards his children. At just 8 years old, Jewel experienced sexual harassment from men and at 12 years old, a man slammed her against a wall after her performance at a local bar.
Despite these challenges, Jewel found solace in music and eventually rose to fame with the release of her debut album 'Pieces of You' in 1995. However, she continued to struggle with untangling her past from her present.
Recently, rumors have circulated about a romantic relationship between Jewel and actor Kevin Costner. But according to Jewel, her current happiness is not due to a man. In an interview with People magazine, she stated 'I found love, and I'm not talking about Kevin's. I'm so happy, irrelevant of a man.'
Jewel has been open about her past experiences and the impact they have had on her life. She continues to advocate for mental health awareness and healing from childhood trauma.
Despite facing adversity, Jewel remains focused on her art and music. Her new exhibit, 'The Portal: An Art Experience by Jewel,' opened at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas in May 2024.