Even after her split from Tristan Thompson in 2021, Khloé Kardashian has kept a special place in her life for his younger brother, Amari. Their bond has only grown stronger over the years.
Amari, now 19, lives with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. This condition is a type of epilepsy. It means he cannot walk or talk. Khloé, who is 41, grew close to Amari and Tristan’s whole family when she and Tristan were together.
Amari used to live in Canada with his mother, Andrea. Sadly, Andrea passed away in 2023. Since then, Khloé has taken on the role of Amari’s primary caretaker. Khloé also shares two children with Tristan: 7-year-old daughter True and 2-year-old son Tatum.
Khloé shared details about this arrangement on her podcast, “Khloé in Wonder Land,” on Wednesday, July 30. “When I first met Tristan and his family, about nine years ago, Andrea and I became really good friends,” she explained. “I had a fantastic relationship with Andrea. I used to help her with Amari’s medical needs. She had questions, she needed connections to certain doctors, and I helped her with that. I was very involved in all his medical appointments when Andrea was here.”
To ensure Amari gets the best care, Khloé mentioned she employs two “sensational caregivers.” She added, “We just want to give Amari the best, most beautiful life we know he deserves.”
Why Khloé Kardashian Stepped Up for Amari
Tristan’s career in the NBA, most recently with the Cleveland Cavaliers, involves a lot of travel. His demanding schedule makes it tough for him to give Amari all the attention he needs alone.
“Tristan is in the NBA,” Khloé said. “He’s in different states, literally every other day or every few days. It’s not good for Amari to be on so many planes.” She explained that Amari experiences “multiple seizures a day” due to his type of epilepsy.
Khloé continued, “So Amari stays in Los Angeles with me. I’ve chosen to care for him and be there for him because traveling isn’t good for him. California’s weather is great for Amari. I love that he’s part of my family.”
Tristan Became Amari’s Legal Guardian in 2024
After his mother’s death, Tristan, who is 34, sought legal guardianship for Amari. In court documents obtained by a news outlet, Us Weekly, he argued, “I want to make sure Amari continues to have a happy and fulfilling life. I want to give him the best care possible.”
He also stated that becoming Amari’s guardian “would be in his best interest. It would make sure someone is responsible for providing and meeting his basic needs.” Tristan was granted temporary guardianship in September 2023. He officially became Amari’s legal guardian in February 2024.
Amari’s Bond with Khloé Goes Beyond Tristan
Khloé has made it clear that her connection with Amari is more important than her past with Tristan. Their relationship ended, but her ties to Amari remain strong.
“I also know how much Amari meant to Andrea,” she shared. “Andrea passed away from a sudden heart attack. Whether or not I am in a relationship with Tristan, I still have this family. I’ve spent so many years with them. I have such strong bonds. My relationship with Andrea has nothing to do with Tristan.” She stressed, “Amari deserves my love and my care, no matter what happens between Tristan and me.”
The Kardashian Family Welcomes Amari
Khloé isn’t the only Kardashian family member who has bonded with Amari. Kim Kardashian has also spoken about the value of her own children growing up with him. Kim, 44, has four children with ex-husband Kanye West: North, 11, Saint, 8, Chicago, 6, and Psalm, 5.
“I love that our kids are growing up around him and helping him,” Kim said during an April 2025 episode of “The Kardashians.” She noted, “They have many questions, and sometimes they don’t feel completely comfortable. But I think it’s very important that they play with him and truly get to know him.”
Their mother, Kris Jenner, shared a heartfelt birthday message for Amari in July. He had just turned 19. Kris posted several photos on Instagram on Sunday, July 27.
“Happy birthday to our sweet angel boy, Amari!” Kris wrote. “You have touched our lives in ways I cannot explain. With every smile, every hug, and all the special moments we share, you remind us what truly matters… love, family, being present, and truly supporting each other with all our heart. Amari, you are such a sweet soul and the brightest light. Thank you for teaching me more than I could ever teach you. I thank God every day for you and I love you so much!”