Russell Denies Inappropriate Romance With Kimora Lee Simmons When She Was 17

Hip hop mogul Russell Simmons has been taking a few hard hits lately. The music icon has been embroiled in scandal after he was hit not only with allegations of sexual assault by multiple women, but a documentary about their accusations has been made public. He’s stepped forward to vehemently deny that he’s ever engaged in any acts of sexual misconduct, but the controversy has caused people to bring up his relationship with ex-wife Kimora Lee Simmons.

Paul Hawthorne / Staff / Getty Images

There has been gossip that Russell Simmons began courting Kimora when she was an underaged model. They were married, had children together, and later divorced, but they’ve maintained a close friendship throughout the years. Recently, Russell gave Kimora a birthday shoutout, and in the comments, Russell addressed rumors that he dated his ex-wife when she wasn’t of-age.

“I never do this but… That’s not true…,” he reportedly penned in a since-deleted comment. “She turned 18 right after i met her February fashion week Tyra banks (our bridesmaid) Cindy Crawford Naomi were all back stage at the Mary McFadden show they said i was a modelizer and that i wasn’t gonna stick around… i think that may have inspired her (the challenge).”

“We got to know each other by May we were dating,” Russell added. “She was legal at 17 But she turned 18 that may her mother and her manager Bethann Hardison approved supported and Rushed us (we really didn’t need a push) and the love affair began People like to talk every so often i loose my cool and talk back so take this advice Be happy and share happiness… try to think uplifting thoughts and keep learning to practice love… that’s our goal… oh and celebrate the queen @kimoraleesimmons.” Check out his birthday post to Kimora Lee Simmons below.

[]