Kimora Lee Simmons has publicly challenged her ex-husband, Russell Simmons, regarding his statements about trying to win their children’s affection, amid ongoing online conflict.
The TV personality, age 50, recently shared that she isn’t close to her children’s fathers. On Monday, she used Instagram to publicly denounce what she called his ‘lies’.
The music executive and the model were married from 1998 to 2006, and their divorce was finalized in 2009. They have two daughters together: Ming Lee, 25, and Aoki Lee, 23.
I was shocked to hear he said she actually threatened to cut me off from our children if I ever tried to take legal action against her. It’s just awful to think she’d use our kids like that.
The fashion designer quickly responded to her ex with a message saying, ‘My daughters are all grown up!’
You’re aware these statements aren’t true. Why are you communicating from so far away in a country where you can’t be brought to justice? Instead of hiding, you should address your critics directly and respond to their claims.



Simmons was talking about Russell’s move to Bali in 2017, which happened after accusations of sexual assault were made against him – accusations he continues to deny.
As a mom myself, I always say family comes in all shapes and sizes! Beyond my daughters with Russell, I’m also incredibly proud to be mom to Kenzo, who’s sixteen, and Wolfe, my ten-year-old. Each of my children, including those with my previous relationships with Djimon Hounsou and Tim Leissner, brings so much joy to my life.
Simmons also adopted a son named Gary, now 16, and has a ‘bonus son’ named Jayden, 19.
In a recent interview with People magazine, the celebrity shared that she isn’t close to her children’s fathers and doesn’t have much of a relationship with them.
I think I’m a decent co-parent, even though my kids live with me all the time and I handle most of the parenting responsibilities. It’s challenging, and I often find it hard to understand what others are thinking – especially men, who can be confusing.
She explained that she naturally falls into a nurturing role with everyone around her, always feeling like a mother figure. Knowing that people see her as someone they can confide in – a mother or best friend – is incredibly fulfilling for her.
Simmons emphasized that her life isn’t focused on romantic relationships, and she’s thankful she can support her family in unique ways that others might not be able to.
I’m not sure we’d have gotten through things or been alright if I hadn’t been the person I am. Being strong, independent, and always striving to improve has meant a lot to me.



Not long after her comments came to light, Russell shared his own response via Instagram threads.
Let me tell you, after two decades of unwavering support – I’m talking fifty thousand dollars every month – and being your closest, honestly, your only friend, it really stung to discover you’d taken my stock. I’ve been a constant in your life, even a godfather to your three children, so this betrayal feels especially deep. It’s just… heartbreaking, to be honest.
The record executive also stated that they’ve been working hard to support their family and maintain their livelihood ever since.
You told me that if I took legal action against you, I wouldn’t be allowed to see my children. Of course, there’s always more than one way to look at things.
In 2023, Simmons publicly claimed Russell was abusive. She later described herself as a single mother.
I just… I can’t believe she actually showed the video. The one of him yelling at Aoki! It was awful, truly awful to watch. And then he gave this… this apology saying he was just ‘frustrated’ and ‘yelling.’ Like that makes it okay! It doesn’t, obviously, but seeing it all laid out there… it just broke my heart for Aoki. It was so brave of her to share it, even though it must have been incredibly difficult.
In an interview with People, Simmons shared that some people criticized her, saying she sounded spoiled because she wouldn’t need to work again and relied on her father for everything.
She wasn’t complaining that her dad needed to provide for her. Instead, she was explaining that he used threats – like canceling plans or privileges – because he valued his own friendships and status more than her feelings, and that was unacceptable.


The reality star went on to say she wasn’t required to do that, also pointing out that Russell had “exaggerated” how involved he was with their daughters.
I’ve always been struck by what Simmons said – it really resonated with me. He was talking about those guys, you know, the ones who seem to have it all – the power, the fame, the wealth, the successful careers… whatever label you want to give them.
I’ve noticed something strange, and I’m feeling disconnected from the people around me. They haven’t been very supportive, so I’ve had to handle everything myself. As a single mother, I’m used to doing things on my own.
Earlier this month, Simmons revealed she acted as a surrogate mother for Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ twin daughters, who are now 18 years old.
The TV star discussed becoming a mother while on the show ‘Today With Jenna & Friends’.
Sean Combs shares three children with his late ex-partner, Kim Porter, who sadly passed away from pneumonia in 2018 at age 47. He and Porter were in an on-again, off-again relationship from 1994 to 2007 and also have a 26-year-old son, Christian, together. Combs welcomed daughters D’Lila and Jessie with Porter.
Simmons was asked about being a ‘surrogate mom’ to other children in her life.


As a mom, my family life is wonderfully… layered! I have my biological children, and then I have the children who feel just as much a part of my heart. That includes my stepdaughter, who I consider another daughter, and a wonderful ‘bonus’ son, Jaden, who’s actually on the show with me. We’ve had him in our lives for years, and he truly feels like one of our own.
I’m raising the children of my late friend, Kim Porter. Some of them are adults, but I also care for her 18-year-old twins.
When asked if she speaks with the twins, Simmons confirmed that she does, saying she had just finished a phone call with them. She added that she’s a mother figure to many people.
The formerly popular musician is currently in prison after being convicted of transporting people for the purpose of prostitution.
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2025-12-17 02:49