LOS ANGELES – Grammy-nominated R&B star Akon is facing the end of his nearly three-decade marriage after his wife, Tomeka Thiam, filed for divorce just four days before their 29th wedding anniversary.
Court papers obtained by entertainment outlet TMZ show that Thiam cited irreconcilable differences in her petition, ending a union that began in September 1996. She is seeking joint legal custody of the couple’s 17-year-old child, primary physical custody, and spousal support, while asking the court to deny Akon any financial support.
The filing highlights the complex personal life of the “Smack That” hitmaker, who has previously acknowledged having multiple relationships and children with different women. Though reports have often linked him to polygamy, Thiam is believed to be his only legally recognised wife in the United States.
Thiam, an entrepreneur who met Akon at 18, has largely avoided the public spotlight during her husband’s global music career. The divorce comes as Akon, 52, focuses on ventures such as his ambitious Akon City project in Senegal and plans to re-record his music catalogue in a country style.
The couple appeared united as recently as July 2024, when they spoke to US Magazine about the “simple” secret to their long relationship. Representatives for Akon have not responded to requests for comment.
Akon, best known for hits like “Lonely,” “I Wanna Love You,” and “Smack That,” has sold more than 35 million albums worldwide and earned five Grammy nominations.