Sophie Turner Sues Joe Jonas to Return Their Two Daughters to England; Jonas Denies 'Abduction' Claims

September 22, 2023

In a shock development that has sent tremors through Hollywood, "Game of Thrones" actress Sophie Turner has filed a lawsuit against her estranged husband, musician Joe Jonas, with the intent to return their two daughters to their "habitual residence" in England. According to court documents accessed by NBC News, the petition was filed on Thursday, September 21, in the southern district of New York.

A Desire to Reside in England

The documents reveal that the former couple had decided to make England their permanent home in April 2023. This decision came from a mutual agreement that they wanted their daughters to attend school in the UK. Following this, they moved into a rental home in May with a plan to settle into a permanent residence by December.

A Marriage Strained by Separation and Work

However, cracks in the marriage began to show over the summer. Jonas embarked on a U.S. tour with his band in July, taking their daughters with him, while Turner stayed back in the UK to film a new drama series that began in May.

Divorce Filing and Fallout

Things took a turn for the worse when Jonas filed for divorce in Miami Dade County, Florida, on September 1. Turner allegedly discovered the divorce proceedings through media outlets on September 5. On September 17, the couple met to discuss their separation, and Turner reemphasized their original plan to have the children return to England. However, Jonas allegedly refused to hand over the children's passports, thereby preventing them from leaving the U.S.

The Hague Convention and Legal Precedence

Turner's petition invokes The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, which sets guidelines for the return of children wrongfully removed from their home country. She claims that by not allowing the children to return to England, Jonas is in "breach of the Mother's rights of custody under English law."

In response, a representative for Jonas says that a Florida court order already restricts both parents from relocating the children, an order that was allegedly served to Turner on September 6. This order appears to complicate matters, as it seemingly conflicts with the couple's prior agreement to reside in England.

Public Relations and Media Statements

Jonas' camp denies any claims of 'abduction,' arguing that such language is "misleading at best, and a serious abuse of the legal system at worst." They accuse Turner of attempting to "move the divorce proceedings to the UK and to remove the children from the U.S. permanently."

Lifestyle Differences and Past Tensions

Unofficial sources have told TMZ that a primary reason for the couple's split was their diverging lifestyles, particularly after the birth of their second child. Turner, who was allegedly struggling postpartum, was reportedly "less than supported" by Jonas, who wanted her to attend social events despite her reservations.

A United Decision to Divorce?

Both Turner and Jonas had issued a joint statement on September 6, claiming their decision to divorce was "mutual" and "amicable." The statement read, "After four years of wonderful marriage, we have mutually decided to amicably end our marriage."

Legal Battles and Future Uncertainties

As it stands, the legal fight for custody and country of residence for their children is far from over. Turner's legal team is expected to fight the Florida court's jurisdiction given the couple's prior agreement to live in England, while Jonas's team is likely to argue that the children have spent the majority of their lives in the U.S. and are American citizens. Both parties have signaled an intention to resolve the matter amicably for the sake of their children, but it remains to be seen how the court will rule on these contentious issues.

A Complex Case in the Public Eye

It's a complicated legal battle that has already captured the attention of fans and legal experts alike. With the proceedings open to public scrutiny due to the high-profile nature of the case, it will undoubtedly continue to dominate headlines. The complexity arises not just from international laws and prior mutual agreements, but also from deeply personal matters of marriage, parenthood, and individual well-being.

With both parents seemingly committed to their children's best interests, one hopes that a resolution can be found that respects both parties' wishes while ensuring the well-being of their young daughters. Until then, the world watches as two beloved figures navigate a challenging chapter in their lives.