“Nelly and Ashanti, in the midst of expecting their first child together, have also decided to take their relationship to the next level — they’re engaged! The announcement came during a recent interview where Ashanti shared her excitement about impending motherhood and the love surrounding this new chapter.
“This year is a true blessing filled with love, hope, and excitement,” Ashanti revealed to Essence in a publication on Wednesday, April 17. “Becoming a mother is something I’ve longed for, and being able to share this joy with my family, fiancé, and devoted fans who have supported my journey is truly amazing.”
While Ashanti didn’t directly mention Nelly by name, fans easily connected the dots. Nelly is already a father to Shawn, Chanelle, Sydney, and Cornell. His children Chanelle and Cornell are from his previous relationship with Channetta Valentine, while Shawn and Sydney were adopted following the passing of his sister, Jackie, due to leukemia.
Nelly and Ashanti’s romantic journey dates back to 2003 when they first met at a Grammy Awards press conference. Although their relationship was public knowledge, it wasn’t until 2015 that they officially confirmed it after Ashanti revealed their breakup in 2013.
During an interview on The Meredith Vieira Show in 2015, Ashanti expressed feeling ‘betrayed’ and reflected on their past challenges. However, by 2023, they reconciled. Nelly confirmed their renewed relationship during an appearance on Philo TV’s ‘Boss Moves with Rasheeda,’ emphasizing that their reunion was unexpected but welcomed.
“Our relationship is back on track,” Nelly affirmed. “It caught us both by surprise, but it’s been a natural progression. There’s no rush. We’re both focused on our careers, and navigating through that together is what matters.”
