Kim Kardashian has addressed backlash over the timing of a recent Instagram post featuring Lewis Hamilton, which appeared online on July 16, 2026, shortly after news broke that her grandmother, Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon, had died at age 91.
The post included a series of affectionate family getaway photos from a lake trip and was widely seen by fans as a public step in Kardashian and Hamilton’s rumored relationship after months of speculation.
“Summers at the lake with my favorite people.”
Some social media users questioned why the upload went live around the same time Kris Jenner shared the family’s bereavement news.
Jenner confirmed the loss of her mother, known to the family as MJ, in an emotional tribute posted on July 16, 2026.
“Today, we said goodbye to my beautiful Mommy MJ.
“There are no words that could ever capture what she has meant to me or the heartbreak of having to say goodbye. My mom was the heart of our family.”
Kardashian later explained that the post had been arranged in advance and was not intentionally shared in response to the family tragedy.
“This post was scheduled a few days ago before we lost MJ, so its timing came right alongside her passing.
“I’ve been by my mom and grandma’s side this past week, and my heart is completely with my family right now. We love and miss her so deeply, and in the days ahead, we’ll be focusing on celebrating her beautiful life.”
She also shared a personal tribute reflecting on what her grandmother taught her during her early years.
“You were the woman who showed me what it meant to be a hardworking businesswoman. You gave me my very first job at your store in San Diego and taught me lessons about work ethic, strength, and confidence that I’ve carried with me ever since.”
Hamilton also posted images from the same trip and paired them with a short message.
“Hold your people close.”
MJ was born in 1934 and died on July 16, 2026, just days before what would have been her 92nd birthday on July 26.
Her 90th birthday was previously celebrated on an episode of The Kardashians, with the family holding a hotel party for her in San Diego, California.
In her tribute, Jenner also reflected on her mother’s lasting influence on the family.
“She taught us that family is everything. She showed us how to love unconditionally and how to find joy in the little moments. She showed me how to face life’s challenges with resilience and faith.
“My heart is broken into a million pieces, thank you for giving me the greatest childhood and oh what a beautiful blessed life. I love you forever Mommy. Thank you for giving us everything.”
No cause of death has been publicly announced.