I read somewhere that the Beckham's have a different view on what happened. Yes in the public eye, maybe not great, but that they did step in when Brooklyn in his teens went a bit 'wild' and 'lashed out'.
To me this sounds like Brooklyn has an underlying anxiety/depressive tendency. Major depression often hits around 25-27. Things get distorted in that depressives are proven to see things more negatively than those who are 'normal' (for want of a better word).
Fits with the time line. He then has a strong partner, Nicola, and he latches on to her. He does seem needy in this sense which is quite clear to see.
I'm not fan of the Beckhams, never were, but I don't think I've ever doubted their love for their children.
And for VB saying 'evil' that's in the context of strained relationships, weddings (which can be difficult at the best of times).
I've probably used similar vocab exasperated at my YP when they 'lash out' verbally as a result of their anxiety. They do apologise afterwards (as do I of course) but then they seem to forget these occasions happen.
We have to acknowledge that some kids are just more difficult and as parents we are shaped as much by their personalities and behaviour as the other way around. It's a two-way thing.