In a candid conversation on the *Call Her Daddy* podcast, Zayn Malik opened up about the joys and challenges of fatherhood, particularly regarding his daughter Khai’s first encounter with the tooth fairy. The former One Direction star, who shares the five-year-old with supermodel Gigi Hadid, shared how his upbringing has shaped his approach to parenting, revealing that he gave Khai an extravagant $500 for her first lost tooth—a gesture that drew both admiration and a playful reprimand from Hadid.
A Surprising Tooth Fairy Gift
During the podcast episode, Malik recounted the excitement surrounding his daughter’s milestone. “I think I gave her a bit too much money from the tooth fairy,” he admitted, causing host Alex Cooper to express disbelief. However, Zayn defended his decision, explaining, “It’s her first tooth. And her mum gave me s*** about it. At the end of the day, I work my arse off. I should be able to give my kid what I want to give her, you know?”
This light-hearted admission underscores Malik’s desire to provide for Khai in ways he felt were unattainable in his own childhood. Growing up in a working-class family in Bradford, he faced financial instability and food insecurity, experiences that have profoundly influenced his parenting philosophy.
Reflections on His Upbringing
Zayn Malik, born to a Pakistani-British father and British mother, has often spoken about the challenges he faced in his formative years. He acknowledged that his daughter’s life is markedly different from his own, stating, “I’m raising her in an environment that isn’t the same as everybody’s. Her dad is a pop star. Her mum is a model.” This recognition of privilege is a testament to Malik’s commitment to ensuring Khai has opportunities and experiences that were not available to him.
The former boyband member’s reflections reveal a deeper understanding of the complexities of modern parenting, particularly in a world where celebrity culture can overshadow conventional values. “Certain things that she does in life might not always reflect what other people’s understanding of reality is,” he noted, highlighting the unique challenges that come with being the child of high-profile parents.
Love, Respect, and Moving Forward
In the same podcast episode, Malik addressed his relationship with Hadid, revealing that while he respects her deeply—“I will always love G because she is the reason my child is on this earth”—he did not believe he was in love with her during their time together. “If I had been, I would have been a better version of myself,” he confessed. This candidness about his feelings invites listeners to consider the complexity of love and respect in co-parenting situations.
The couple’s journey together began in late 2015, culminating in a daughter born in September 2020. Their relationship, which was marked by both passion and turbulence, ended in October 2021, following allegations of conflict that Malik has since denied. In the wake of their separation, he has focused on his music career, returning to the industry with a new album.
Why it Matters
Zayn Malik’s insights into his parenting journey reflect broader themes of financial stability, emotional growth, and the realities of raising children in the public eye. As he navigates the complexities of fatherhood, his experiences resonate with many who grapple with the balance of privilege, responsibility, and the desire to provide a nurturing environment for their children. Malik’s story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that our past can have on our present, especially in the context of family dynamics and personal growth.
