Akon’s Wife Files for Divorce Days Before 29th Wedding Anniversary

Just days before their 29th wedding anniversary, singer Akon’s longtime wife, Tomeka Thiam, has filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences.

According to legal documents obtained by People, Thiam listed the date of separation as "TBD" and noted that the couple shares one child, a 17-year-old daughter named Journey. Thiam is seeking joint legal custody but has requested primary physical custody, with visitation rights for Akon. She is also requesting spousal support, while asking the court to deny any such support to the singer.

Akon, 52, known for hits like "Smack That" and "Right Now (Na Na Na)," gained further fame in India for his Bollywood debut with songs "Chammak Challo" and "Criminal" in Shah Rukh Khan’s 2011 film Ra.One.

The artist has been open about his views on polygamy. In a 2022 interview, Akon claimed to have nine children and referred to polygamy as a natural part of his African heritage. “(Polygamy is) part of our culture. Absolutely,” he said. “For me, it looks normal, because it’s culture for us. We didn’t go outside of our African culture when we got to the Western world.”

He criticized the Western approach to relationships, stating: “The flaw that the Western world made is they created all these rules without putting nature into account.”

In 2023, musician Amirror claimed she was one of Akon’s four wives. The singer himself has emphasized that while he may not attend every recital or holiday event, he remains a present and responsible father. “Communication allows me to be there every day. That’s what my FaceTime phone is for,” he said. “My job is to raise my kids to be responsible and to protect their mother.”

Akon has previously described both marriage and dating as valid and serious relationships, aligning with his unconventional but deeply held personal beliefs.