The Fashion Power Couple Divorce: Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons

3 min readJun 21, 2023

Understanding the High-Profile Divorce of Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons

The Hip-Hop and High Fashion Union

Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons were once the epitome of hip-hop meets high fashion. Their relationship, which began in 1992, stirred quite a buzz, as Kimora was a mere 17 years old, while Russell was 35. Their union wasn’t without its fair share of drama, from Kimora’s year-long departure to Russell’s brief dalliance with another model.

Marriage, Business, and Parenthood

The couple tied the knot in 1998 and welcomed two daughters, Aoki Lee and Ming Lee. Simultaneously, they built their fashion empires, Phat Farm and Baby Phat, solidifying their position as one of the industry’s power couples. However, in 2006, they shocked the world by announcing their split but promised to remain committed parents and business partners.

The Divorce Proceedings and Child Support

Despite parting ways in 2006, Kimora didn’t officially file for divorce until 2008, citing irreconcilable differences. She sought full custody of their children, with Russell’s visits supervised by their nanny and security staff. The divorce was finalized in 2009, with Russell being directed to pay Kimora a significant $40,000 monthly in child support until their youngest daughter turned 19 and a half.

Post-Divorce Relationship

Three years post-separation, Kimora shared with Larry King that she and Russell maintained friendly terms. She candidly confessed that although the divorce process was tough, they tried to maintain a cordial relationship for their daughters, Aoki Lee and Ming Lee. However, a subsequent lawsuit posed a significant challenge to their amicable co-parenting and business partnership.

FAQs

When did Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons get married?Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons got married in 1998.Why did Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons get divorced?Kimora Lee Simmons cited irreconcilable differences as the reason for their divorce, which was finalized in 2009.How much did Russell Simmons pay in child support after the divorce?Russell Simmons was ordered to pay Kimora Lee Simmons $40,000 per month in child support until their youngest daughter turned 19 and a half years old.Are Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons on good terms after the divorce?According to Kimora, she and Russell have remained friendly for the sake of their children, despite the challenges posed by their divorce and subsequent events.What are the names of Kimora and Russell Simmons’ children?Kimora and Russell Simmons have two daughters together, Aoki Lee and Ming Lee.What is the nature of the businesses Kimora and Russell Simmons built together?Kimora and Russell Simmons built their clothing empires together. Russell founded the urban clothing line Phat Farm, and Kimora later launched the female counterpart, Baby Phat.