In an exciting turn of events, Ashanti and Nelly have officially announced their engagement, marking a new chapter in their love story just as they eagerly await the arrival of their first child together. The couple shared their joy and anticipation with the world, expressing gratitude for the support of their families, fans, and each other.
Ashanti, at 43, radiates with excitement as she reflects on the blessings of this new phase in her life. Speaking to Essence magazine, she shares her sentiments about impending motherhood, a journey she has eagerly awaited. “This new year of my life is such a blessing full of love, hope, and anticipation,” she expresses. “Motherhood is something that I have looked forward to, and sharing this with my family, fiancé, and loyal fans, who have been so supportive of my career, is an amazing experience.”
The announcement of their engagement and impending parenthood came in a playful and heartwarming Instagram video shared by Ashanti. As her team hurriedly prepares her for an upcoming concert, she humorously quips, “I need about nine months,” while holding up a fertility test from Proov, a company in which both Ashanti and Nelly, aged 49, have minority stakes. This lighthearted moment captured the essence of their journey together – filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams.
The news of their pregnancy, initially reported by Us Weekly in December 2023, marked a significant milestone for the couple. For Nelly, this child will be his fifth, joining his existing family, including daughter Chanelle, 29, and son Cornell Haynes III, 24, from his previous relationship with Channetta Valentine. Additionally, Nelly lovingly embraced the role of father figure to his late sister Jackie Donahue’s children, Shawn and Sydney, after her passing in 2005.
Ashanti and Nelly’s love story has seen its share of ups and downs since they first crossed paths at a Grammy Awards press conference. Their relationship, characterized by its on-and-off nature, spanned from 2003 to 2013, filled with moments of love, separation, and personal growth. However, fate had other plans for them, as they found themselves drawn back to each other a decade later in April 2023.
Reflecting on their rekindled romance during a candid moment on the “Boss Moves with Rasheeda” podcast in September 2023, Nelly shared insights into their journey of rediscovery. “Yeah, we cool again,” he remarked, acknowledging the surprise they both felt at finding their way back to each other. “It wasn’t anything that I don’t think was planned,” he added, emphasizing the organic nature of their reunion.
Navigating the complexities of their individual careers and personal lives, Ashanti and Nelly found solace and strength in each other’s presence. As Nelly aptly described, “Before I felt like both of us were doing what we were doing before career-wise, and when you got so many people in the middle of it, it can be tough.” Their journey together serves as a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the beauty of second chances.
As they embark on this new chapter of their lives, Ashanti and Nelly’s love story continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. With an engagement to celebrate and parenthood on the horizon, the couple’s bond grows stronger, reflecting the enduring power of love amidst life’s unpredictable twists and turns.