Sia’s Estranged Husband Dan Bernad Files for Sole Custody of Their 19-Month-Old Son, Claims She’s an ‘Unfit and Unreliable’ Parent

Dan Bernad Seeks Sole Custody, Citing Concerns Over Sia’s Parenting

In a dramatic turn of events, Dan Bernad, the estranged husband of internationally acclaimed singer Sia, has officially filed for sole custody of their 19-month-old son, Somersault Wonder Bernad, affectionately known as “Summi.” The custody petition, submitted on October 27, 2025, alleges that Sia is an “unfit and unreliable” parent, struggling with substance abuse issues that jeopardize the well-being of their young child.

The couple, who quietly welcomed their son in March 2024, have been embroiled in a contentious separation, with Bernad’s legal filings painting a troubling picture of Sia’s ability to provide a stable home environment. According to court documents obtained by media outlets, Bernad claims that Sia has delegated nearly all childcare responsibilities to a rotating team of nannies, while maintaining control from a distance. He argues that this arrangement has created a “one-sided and highly managed environment” that is detrimental to their son’s development.

Bernad’s petition also requests that Sia undergo regular drug testing, enroll in co-parenting classes, and limit her visitation to monitored sessions three times per week. Additionally, he is seeking substantial child support payments amounting to $77,245 per month, alongside financial responsibility for medical, educational, and childcare expenses.

Sia’s Response: Sobriety and Concerns Over Bernad’s Lifestyle

In response to Bernad’s allegations, Sia filed a declaration on October 28, 2025, asserting that she has been sober for over six months and is actively engaged in a recovery program that includes weekly testing and the support of a sober companion. She emphasizes that her sobriety has been a cornerstone of her life and a key reason for their separation, citing Bernad’s ongoing involvement in nightlife and recreational drug use as incompatible with a healthy environment for their son.

Sia also disputes Bernad’s claims regarding her role as a parent, stating that she has always been the primary caregiver for Sommi. She highlights that Bernad has never had custody of their son for more than two hours at a time and that his visits have always been supervised due to an ongoing investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department and the Department of Child and Family Services. Although the investigations have been closed without conclusive findings, Sia maintains that she remains concerned about unsupervised time between Bernad and their child.

Furthermore, Sia challenges Bernad’s allegations of substance abuse and questions his motives, suggesting that his custody requests are financially driven. She notes that she has already paid Bernad $300,000 since their separation and accuses him of seeking additional custodial time primarily for monetary gain rather than a genuine desire to foster a meaningful relationship with their son.

Legal Battle Intensifies Amid Financial and Custody Disputes

The custody dispute between Sia and Dan Bernad is further complicated by financial disagreements. Bernad claims he is currently unemployed and financially dependent on Sia, stating that she ceased funding their joint business venture, Modem Medicine, including his salary. In addition to child custody, Bernad has filed for spousal support exceeding $250,000 per month, along with requests for legal and forensic accounting fees totaling over $500,000.

Sia’s legal team has yet to publicly respond to these financial claims, but the singer’s filings suggest a firm stance against Bernad’s demands, emphasizing her commitment to their son’s welfare above all else.

This high-profile custody battle has attracted significant media attention, highlighting the challenges faced by celebrity couples navigating private disputes in the public eye. Both parties have enlisted legal representation, and the case is expected to proceed through family court with careful consideration of the child’s best interests.

Conclusion

The custody conflict between Sia and Dan Bernad underscores the complexities involved when personal struggles and parenting responsibilities collide. As Bernad seeks sole custody of their 19-month-old son, citing concerns about Sia’s fitness as a parent, the singer maintains her sobriety and commitment to providing a safe environment for their child. This ongoing legal battle serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing a child’s well-being amid family disputes.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story. If you or someone you know is facing a custody dispute, consult with a qualified family law attorney to understand your rights and options.