Russell Simmons Shares His Thoughts on Kimora Lee Simmons’ Relationship with Their Kids’ Fathers

Russell Simmons; Kimora Lee Simmons.
Credit :

Lester Cohen/Getty; Olivia Wong/WireImage

NEED TO KNOW

• Russell Simmons responded to his ex-wife Kimora Lee Simmons’ claims about her relationships with their children’s fathers.
• “I have been fighting for my kids love and my bread,” Russell stated in his social media response.
• Kimora met him during New York Fashion Week in 1992, married him in 1998, and they divorced in 2009.

Russell Simmons publicly addressed claims made by his ex-wife, Kimora Lee Simmons, regarding her relationship with the fathers of their children. The 68-year-old music mogul asserted that he has been “fighting” for the affection of their children amid a tumultuous co-parenting situation.

Recently, Kimora, 50, revealed to PEOPLE that she does not maintain a significant connection with her kids’ fathers. In response, Russell indicated there are “two sides to every story.” He emphasized the efforts he has made in their children’s lives, stating, “I gave u 50,000 a month for 20 years.” Russell shared this comment on his social media account on December 14, highlighting the complicated dynamics of their relationship.

He continued, “I have been fighting for my kids love and my bread ever since,” mentioning that Kimora had threatened him with a loss of contact with their children if he pursued legal action against her.

A representative for Kimora did not provide an immediate response to requests for comment.

Beyond Russell and Kimora’s two daughters, Ming Lee, 25, and Aoki Lee, 23, Kimora also has a son, Kenzo Lee, 16, from her relationship with actor Djimon Hounsou and another son, Wolfe Lee, 10, with former investment banker Tim Leissner, who recently received a two-year prison sentence for bribery and money laundering charges. Kimora highlighted her reliance on a supportive network of family and friends during this challenging time.

“Usually, I would say that I co-parent okay, but the kids are with me full-time,” she stated, expressing the difficulties of being the primary caregiver. Kimora acknowledged that her daughters still view her as their mother and feel comfortable approaching her with their needs.

Russell Simmons and Kimora Lee Simmons in 2010.

Theo Wargo/WireImage

Kimora emphasized that her life does not depend on romantic relationships. “I am thankful I’m able to be there for my family in ways that other people or parents are not,” she noted. Her resilience and commitment to personal growth have been vital for her and her children.

The former couple’s complicated history resurfaced in June 2023, when Kimora publicly supported Aoki’s allegations against Russell, claiming he threatened her daughter’s friends. In a passionate message on Instagram, Kimora declared, “Leave my kids alone,” while emphasizing the need to protect the family from external threats.

The ongoing dialogue between Kimora and Russell reflects the complexities often encountered in high-profile co-parenting situations.