Jana Kramer Reveals Why She Was Afraid To Come Out As A Domestic Abuse Survivor

PEOPLE

Living much of her life in the spotlight after landing a role on the seventh season of hit drama series One Tree Hill in the role of teen It girl Alex Dupre, you would never have known Jana Kramer was a survivor of domestic abuse. 

While her marriage to her first husband, Michael Gambino, was short, it was scarring. During their marriage spanning only a few months, the now deceased Gambino would abuse Kramer so badly he went to prison for her attempted murder. 

Waiting over 10 years to speak publicly about the terrifying chapter in her life, Kramer is becoming stronger and stronger with each passing day, now willing to speak more openly about the domestic violence she endured at such a young age.

“I was afraid to tell my story,” Kramer shared in an interview with PEOPLE. “There were about 10 years that I didn’t speak about it because I was afraid people would judge me, or they would try to turn it around. That’s how a lot of women are in abusive relationships feel — that it’s their fault.”

Now that the 33-year-old country singer has found her voice, she hopes to give strength to women currently suffering from abuse as well as survivors to speak out. In fact, Kramer revealed that several women have already shared their stories with her. 

“Whether it’s one or 20 people, it’s just really nice that I’ve given people the opportunity to share their voice,” Kramer continued. “To be around to share it is a cool thing.”

Such an inspiration to women everywhere. you can watch the emotionally-charged interview below.