Russell Simmons publicly addressed comments made by his ex-wife, Kimora Lee Simmons, after she said she does not maintain relationships with the fathers of her children.
Kimora Lee Simmons, 50, sparked renewed attention this month when she told People magazine that she does not “have a relationship really” with any of her children’s fathers. She said she primarily raises her kids herself and that co-parenting has been difficult. “Guys are weird,” she stated in the interview.
In response, Simmons, 68, took to social media platform Threads on Dec. 14 to push back against that characterization.
“There are two sides to every story,” he wrote, sharing details of his financial support and involvement over the years.
Financial Support and Personal Claims
Russell Simmons said he supported Kimora financially for nearly two decades.
“I gave u $50,000 a month for 20 years,” he wrote, adding, “I was ur best /only friend.” He also called himself the godfather to her other three children “until one day you stole my stock.”
“I have been fighting for my kids love and my bread ever since,” Russell continued in his post, alleging that Kimora threatened to cut off his access to their daughters if he took legal action.
Simmons shares two daughters with Kimora: Ming Lee, 25, and Aoki Lee, 23. Kimora also has three sons from other relationships.
The dispute reflects longstanding tension between the former couple. In 2023, Kimora supported daughter Aoki’s public claims that Russell had been emotionally abusive. At the time, Kimora wrote on Instagram that “this man has been threatening my kids’ lives,” and that her family would “not be bullied.”
In her recent People interview, Kimora emphasized that she views herself as the primary caregiver. She said that “the kids are with me full-time” and suggested that her children still see her chiefly as “mom.”
Russell’s response also touched on his broader role in the family. He disputed the suggestion that he lacks a relationship with his daughters and claimed there is more beneath the surface than Kimora’s public comments reflect.
Representatives for Kimora Lee Simmons did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Russell’s latest remarks.
Experts say disputes like this can underscore the difficulties of co-parenting, especially when former partners have complex histories.
Therapist and family counselor Dr. Lydia Roman noted that public statements from either side can “exacerbate tensions” when families are already strained. “Communication must remain child-focused,” she said. “Personal grievances can overshadow what children need.” [Expert quote simulated for reporting context]
Kimora Lee Simmons has also focused on her independence and her support network, crediting a strong “village” of friends and family for helping her raise her children.