Keke Palmer has one firm rule when it comes to relationships: being in love doesn’t have to mean living under the same roof.
While out promoting her upcoming Peacock series The ’Burbs, the multi-talented star stopped by the Today show, where she opened up about how she navigates conversations around dating and relationships.
During a conversation about modern dating and being upfront about life goals, Palmer said she believes in addressing the important topics early on.
“I think that’s actually good,” she said about discussing things like marriage and kids from the start. “Just get it out of the way… talk about the things that actually show compatibility life-wise.”
But when the focus shifted to what she personally wants in a relationship, Palmer was quick to set a clear boundary.
“I could be open, but one thing I need you to know is I never want to live together,” she said. “I like my alone time.”
She stressed that she wasn’t joking or speaking hypothetically. “That’s real. I’m speaking as The Keke,” she added.
Palmer also referenced Whoopi Goldberg while explaining her perspective, saying she connects with the idea of keeping her own space. “I just feel like Whoopi Goldberg said it best once. She was like, ‘I don’t want nobody in my house.’ And I feel that. I’m serious — married, even.”
Her ideal situation would still keep a partner close, just not under the same roof.
“You can be in the guest house, we can be on the same land, but I’m over there and he’s over there,” she explained. “At best, separate rooms.”
To Palmer, that kind of setup keeps the spark alive. “Think about how fun it would be to be like, ‘I’m going over to my man’s house.’ … It keeps it fun and exciting.”
Palmer, who shares her 2-year-old son Leodis with ex Darius Jackson, has previously spoken about the importance of protecting her independence while juggling motherhood and her career. That same outlook clearly shapes how she approaches relationships — valuing connection without giving up personal space.
On the work front, she’s staying booked and busy. The ’Burbs premieres February 8 on Peacock, and her next movie, I Love Boosters, is set to arrive in theaters May 22.
