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Ice-T Reflects on Parenting Journey and Family Dynamics

Ice-T (born Tracy Lauren Marrow), renowned for his iconic rap career and acting roles, has recently shared insights into his parenting approach. The star of Law & Order: SVU became a father for the first time in 1976 with the birth of his daughter, LeTesha Marrow, now 49. He shares LeTesha with his high school girlfriend, Adrienne. Following her, he welcomed his son, Tracy Jr. (34), with ex-girlfriend Darlene Ortiz in 1991. In 2015, a new chapter began with the birth of his daughter Chanel Nicole (10) with his wife, Coco Austin.

Ice-T and Coco’s unique parenting style has garnered both attention and scrutiny. Despite the criticism, Ice-T maintains that "everyone parents differently." He emphasized the importance of individual choices in parenting, stating, "You have to be out of your mind to care what someone else has to say." He recognizably added, "Our parenting is a lot different than the normal, square couple from Oklahoma. I’m a f—ing rock star; it’s different."

The couple has chosen to raise Chanel without a nanny. Ice-T praised Coco as a "super mom" during a recent interview, expressing admiration for her commitment. "If you’re fortunate enough to be able to stay home with your kids, it’s the most incredible and most admirable thing you can do," he remarked. Coco takes the lead in dropping Chanel off at school and engaging her in various extracurricular activities.

While Ice-T’s older children prefer to maintain a low profile, Chanel has shown her flair, regularly capturing public interest and appearing in family photos shared online. In February 2023, all three of Ice-T’s children participated in his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony, where he expressed his gratitude towards them, acknowledging their role in his success.

Ice-T declared during his acceptance speech, "Let me shout out my family… [Chanel] has no fear of the stage."

Here’s a closer look at Ice-T’s three children:

LeTesha Marrow, 49

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Born on March 20, 1976, LeTesha is Ice-T’s first child. Reflections on his youth reveal that Ice-T was caught up in his burgeoning fame, stating he "wasn’t as focused on parenthood" at that time. LeTesha has a son, Elyjah Marrow, making Ice-T a grandfather. Although LeTesha typically steers clear of the spotlight, she has made appearances on her father’s reality show Ice Loves Coco.

Tracy Marrow Jr., 34

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Tracy Jr. was born on November 23, 1991, to Ice-T and Darlene Ortiz. Following in his father’s footsteps, Tracy Jr. is a musician and performs with Ice-T’s heavy metal band, Body Count. His mother, Ortiz, has acknowledged the remarkable qualities and talents Tracy Jr. possesses, stating that he encompasses much more than just his father’s success.

Chanel Nicole Marrow, 10

Chanel Marrow Instagram

Chanel made her debut on November 28, 2015, after nearly 14 years of marriage between Ice-T and Coco. The couple has openly discussed why they delayed starting a family, with Coco noting her desire to complete certain personal goals before becoming a mother.

As Chanel grows, she has embraced the public eye, showcasing her vibrant personality. Her performances and even a recent Mother’s Day tribute to Coco highlighted their close bond. With aspirations in kung fu and talent for performing, Chanel seems to be following in her parents’ creative footsteps.

Ice-T continues to express pride in his family’s unique dynamics and shared adventures, often taking to social media to celebrate these moments.