This weekend, 21-year-old Aoki Lee Simmons was spotted alongside 65-year-old restaurateur Vittorio Assaf, enjoying a romantic getaway to St. Barts. The duo was photographed kissing on the beach, and the shots have since gone viral. Many commenters are expressing outrage about their over-40-year age gap. Others are defending the model, however, noting that she’s free to date whoever she chooses.
Amid the controversy, social media users have been curious about how Aoki’s parents, Kimora Lee and Russell Simmons, feel about the rumored relationship. As photos of her daughter’s PDA remain plasters across the internet, Kimora hopped online to share what fans think is a response. She appears to be fed up, sharing a lighthearted animal clip that showcases the struggle of raising kids.
“On my last nerve right now,” she captioned her Instagram Story, which appears to show a panda mother growing frustrated with her child, who keeps mischievously running away. While almost everyone airs their opinions about the Harvard graduate’s new fling, she’s kept mostly silent. She did share a few “anonymous” social media posts featuring Assaf’s voice, however. Kimora Lee isn’t the only one of Aoki’s parents who appears to have addressed the headlines either. Yesterday, Russell took to Instagram to share a throwback of him and his daughter. In his caption, he urged her to give him a call.
“Love you always im always waiting for any call any time,” he wrote alongside the photo, which boasts the term “unconditional love.” What do you think of Aoki Lee Simmons’ rumored new man, Vittorio Assaf? Do you think they deserve the backlash they’re receiving for their age gap or are social media users overreacting? What about Kimora Lee Simmons’s apparent reaction? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
Aoki Lee Simmons is the daughter of fashion mogul Kimora Lee Simmons and music entrepreneur Russell Simmons. She has carved out her niche in the worlds of fashion and business. As of 2024, Aoki Lee Simmons’ net worth is estimated at $55 million, according to AfroTech. This substantial figure reflects her inheritance, family connections, entrepreneurial endeavors, and modeling career. Aoki’s early start in the fashion industry and her education and personal initiatives demonstrate her commitment to building a personal brand and business acumen distinct from her family’s legacy.
Fashion & Modeling Beginnings
NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 07: (L-R) Kimora Lee, Ming Lee, Aoki Lee and Russell Simmons are seen around. Lincoln Center during Spring 2013 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on September 7, 2012, also in New York City. (Photo by Gilbert Carrasquillo/FilmMagic)
Aoki Lee Simmons began her journey in the spotlight at a young age, modeling for Baby Phat, the clothing brand launched by her mother. Her early exposure to the fashion industry provided a solid foundation for her understanding of the business, which has been instrumental in her later endeavors. Aoki has not only modeled but has also been involved in aspects of fashion design and marketing, leveraging her family’s brand while adding her unique touch to projects she is involved with.
Educational Pursuits & Business Ventures
MIAMI, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 08: (L-R) Aoki Lee Simmons and Ming Lee Simmons attend. Y2K Core Presented by Android at Wynwood Studio on December 08, 2023, also in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Android)
Aoki Lee Simmons has prioritized education, attending prestigious institutions and focusing on areas that complement her career in fashion and entrepreneurship. Her academic achievements have equipped her with the skills to manage and expand her business ventures. Aoki’s involvement in various aspects of the fashion industry, from design to sustainability efforts, showcases her dedication to positively impacting the industry.
Personal Brand & Media Presence
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 11: Aoki Lee Simmons and Antonia Gentry attend the Nasdaq Day Of The Girl. 2023 market opening bell at the NASDAQ MarketSite on October 11, 2023, also in New York City. (Photo by John Nacion/Getty Images)
Further, Aoki Lee Simmons has built a strong personal brand. She utilizes social media and other platforms to engage with a global audience. Her presence on these platforms has allowed her to directly promote her projects and initiatives to followers. It also enhances her marketability and influence. This strategy has bolstered her brand and opened up new avenues for revenue through endorsements and collaborations.
Aoki Lee Simmons’s net worth shows her successful integration of fashion expertise, business savvy, and a strong personal brand. Her ability to navigate the complexities of the fashion world positions her as a powerful influence in the business and fashion sectors. Her ongoing projects and entrepreneurial spirit suggest that her impact and success will continue to grow in the coming years.
Usher walked into 2024 feeling more confident than ever ahead of his iconic Super Bowl Halftime show, but this year hasn’t been all roses and rainbows for the R&B crooner. He did tie the knot to his long-time lover and remind us all how awesome his discography is over the past few weeks, but at the same time, Usher’s been catching strays regarding his sexuality for some time now. Discourse previously heated up amid Keke Palmer’s feud with her baby daddy, Darius Jackson, at which time the actress’ mother stated that her daughter wasn’t flirting with the “Yeah!” hitmaker as he was a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Usher himself didn’t address this gossip, but now that Kimora Lee Simmons seems to be insinuating that he and her ex-husband, Russell, might’ve been intimate, people are putting the Baby Phat creator on blast. After Rus shared a heartfelt message thanking the Texas native for supporting him during a low moment, KL was among those adding fuel to the fire in the comments. “Not ‘by my bed!!’ Lolol ,” she wrote on her story after seeing her co-parent’s post. “What is this I’m seeing in the news today?? Lol, y’all some wild boys frfr .”
So far, most IG users aren’t taking kindly to the model’s antics. “Slandering an unhealed person’s NAME while you keep their last name as your NAME is quite insidious,” one Instagram user chastised Kimora Lee under @theshaderoom’s post. “If I was her I’d keep real quiet when her husband Tim robbed $93,000,000 from Malaysian banks and faces 25 years in jail,” another called out the fashion icon’s new romantic partner.
Countless others have been rushing to Usher’s defense amid the drama. “This was unnecessary, and this is one of the reasons Black men don’t speak up. Regardless of their situation, he was acknowledging Usher as a friend/brother at one of his lowest points. #MentalHealthAwareness BLACK MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH IS EQUALLY AS IMPORTANT!” Keep scrolling to read more responses to KL’s shade, and check back in with HNHH later to catch up on music/pop culture news.
Djimon Hounsou is a distinguished actor known for his powerful performances and commanding presence on screen. He has accumulated a substantial net worth of approximately $35 million by 2024, as reported by Equity Atlas. With a career of over two decades, Hounsou has showcased his versatility across a wide range of film genres, earning critical acclaim and leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. From his early roles in groundbreaking films to his recent projects, Hounsou’s journey reflects a remarkable talent and dedication to his craft.
Acting Career & Artistic Versatility
BEVERLY HILLS, UNITED STATES: Star of the film “Amistad”, Djimon Hounsou(L) poses with director. Steven Spielberg(R) at the premiere of the movie 08 December in. Beverly Hills, CA. A lawsuit has been filed for 10 million USD by author. Barbara Chase-Riboud, who claims the movie plagiarized her book on the slave ship revolt that the movie is based on. AFP PHOTO Vince BUCCI (Photo credit should read Vince Bucci/AFP via Getty Images)
Djimon Hounsou’s career is marked by diverse roles demonstrating his versatility and range as an actor. From intense dramas to action-packed blockbusters, he has consistently delivered nuanced and memorable performances that resonate with audiences. Hounsou’s ability to inhabit complex characters and convey a wide range of emotions has earned him praise from critics and peers, solidifying his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most respected talents.
Throughout his career, Djimon Hounsou has appeared in several acclaimed films that have garnered both commercial success and critical acclaim. His performances in movies such as Amistad, Gladiator, and Blood Diamond have earned him prestigious awards, including Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations. Hounsou’s dedication to his craft and commitment to authenticity in his roles have made him a sought-after actor in the industry.
Philanthropy & Advocacy
HOLLYWOOD, CA – MAY 08: Djimon Hounsou arrives at the premiere of Warner Bros. Pictures’. “King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword” at TCL Chinese Theatre o.n May 8, 2017 also in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Gregg DeGuire/WireImage)
Further, Djimon Hounsou is actively involved in philanthropic efforts and advocacy work. He aims at improving the lives of others. He has also lent his support to various humanitarian causes, including initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. Hounsou’s commitment to positively impacting society reflects his belief in using his platform for meaningful change and social justice.
Continued Influence & Legacy
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 13: (L-R) Djimon Hounsou, Sofia Boutella, Cary Elwes and. Garrett Hedlund appear at the after party for the premiere of Netflix’s “Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child Of Fire” at the. Chinese Theatre on December 13, 2023 also in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images )
Overall, Djimon Hounsou’s influence in the entertainment industry remains significant. His legacy as a talented actor and compassionate humanitarian will endure for years. Hounsou’s dedication to his craft and commitment to making a difference in the world also inspires aspiring actors and humanitarians.
During a recent interview with Graham Bensinger, Russell Simmons spoke on his lawsuit against his ex, Kimora Lee. According to him, the Baby Phat founder allegedly transferred his Celsius energy drink stock to herself to pay her current husband’s bail. Her husband, Tim Leissner, was charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in 2018.
“I must’ve been a sh*t partner, from what I hear,” Simmons began. “No. I was very generous and tried to be supportive. We were together 15 years, Kimora and I. And for eight years, we were married. And together for seven, before that,” he continued, “And then, I was best friends with Kimora throughout the entire raising of my children.” Things were great between them for a while, however, the situation eventually took a turn for the worse. According to Simmons, anybody else would have also sued had they experienced what he allegedly did.
“So, I tried to be flexible, and accommodating, and supportive,” Simmons then described. “And sometimes, things don’t work out. You’ve seen the lawsuit. I had no choice. I think Jesus Christ, Lord Buddha, anybody would have sued. […] She gave what is now, today, based on the value of the stock, $800 million to the government illegally, and now I’m fighting to get my half of it back.” Kimora’s legal team previously denied his allegations, clapping back with accusations of “harassment.”
“Kimora and her children are shocked by the extortive harassment coming from her ex-husband, Russell Simmons, who has decided to sue her for shares and dividends of Celsius stock in which Kimora and Tim Leissner invested millions of dollars,” their 2021 statement read. “This is an ill-advised attempt by Russell to use the legal system to access funds he is in no way entitled to, and which his own legal team confirms Russell did not pay for.” What do you think of Russell Simmons’ recent comments about his lawsuit against his ex, Kimora Lee? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
Halloween, the time of the year when creativity knows no bounds and paying homage to iconic figures is the name of the game. This year, rapper Saweetie took the Halloween game to a whole new level. Although she didn’t dress up per say, she did recreate a look. She recreated a look that was none other than fashion mogul Kimora Lee Simmons. Her Halloween choice wasn’t just a “costume;” it was a heartfelt tribute to Kimora’s legendary Baby Phat brand. She recreated one of Kimora’s most memorable Baby Phat advertisements, identically replicating the photo to a tee. And here’s where the internet went into a frenzy: she posed nude as well, embodying the essence of Kimora’s unapologetic confidence and the empowering spirit of the Baby Phat brand.
The creativity and attention to detail in Saweetie’s Halloween look honored a fashion icon. However, it also underscored the importance of self-expression and the celebration of powerful women in the industry. Kimora Lee Simmons has long been a symbol of style, business acumen, and fierce determination. And Saweetie’s Halloween tribute served as a powerful acknowledgment of the impact that figures like Kimora have had on the world of fashion and culture. Several celebs pulled out all the stops this year to recreate a fashionable look.
Moreover, in an industry where fashion and art continually intersect, Saweetie’s Halloween tribute reminded us that artists can use their craft to pay homage to those who’ve left a mark on the world of style. Beyond the fun and festivities, this iconic costume carried a deeper message: it celebrated the women who have blazed trails in the fashion world and who continue to inspire the next generation of creative minds. Many celebs pulled out all the stops for Halloween. In fact, Winnie Harlow recreated Katt Williams for an on-point look and hilarious skit.
Saweetie’s choice to embody Kimora Lee Simmons on Halloween wasn’t just a costume. It was a statement, a celebration, and a testament to the power of art and fashion to connect generations and honor those who have shaped the industry. It was a reminder that creativity knows no bounds, and Halloween is the perfect canvas to paint one’s tribute to the icons who have made a lasting impact on the world. Did she nail it? Let us know on HNHH!
In the 2000s, Kimora Lee had the fashion industry on lock with her fashion brand, Baby Phat. Her seamless transition from stunning model to fashion mogul remains an essential story in fashion history. It’s not news that the brand has lost much momentum since the 2010s rolled in. However, Baby Phat remains Kimora Lee’s passion project. The brand was once a cultural phenomenon in the 2000s and had a longstanding impact on the fashion industry. With that in mind, it is no surprise that Kimora is set to return Baby Phat to its former glory sooner rather than later.
Baby Phat originated as an extension of the Phat Farm label established by Lee’s ex-husband, Russell Simmons, in 1992. Simmons, a renowned figure in the Hip Hop stratosphere, co-founded Def Jam Recordings. He later ventured into the fashion world with Phat Farm, catering primarily to men’s urban fashion.
Baby Phat was first explored in 1993, just a year after Phat Farm started. At the time, the brand was in its very early stages and only offered a limited variety of women’s T-shirts. By the mid-’90s, the production and development of Baby Phat designs was put on hold until further notice. Soon after, Russell Simmons partnered with Turbo Sportswear, forming the American Design Group (ADG). Following this partnership, the license for Phat Farm apparel was awarded to ADG. Eventually, in 1998, ADG decided to resume the development of Baby Phat, and the brand was relaunched soon after.
Kimora Lee Steps In
NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 15: Designer Kimora Lee Simmons with children (L-R) Aoki Lee, Kenzo Lee Hounsou and Ming Lee on the runway at the Baby Phat & KLS Collection Spring 2010 fashion show at Roseland Ballroom on September 15, 2009 in New York, New York. (Photo by Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images)
In 1998, Kimora Lee was shown a new prototype of a women’s t-shirt from Phat Farm. Lee thought the shirt was disappointing and told her then-husband that she “would never wear this.” She described the prototype as “very athletic and basic, scaled-down pieces of what a guy would wear.” However, she realized she could help take the brand to the next level with her fashion experience and great eye for design. Soon after, Kimora Lee decided to take on the designer and creative director role of Baby Phat. In addition, Lee went on to create a collection of designs she saw fit to be worn by women. By the following year, 1999, Baby Phat by Kimora Lee Simmons launched.
The Rise Of Baby Phat
After launching, Baby Phat quickly gained popularity for its distinctive style. More importantly, the brand became a hit within the Hip Hop community. Characterized by flashy designs, rhinestones, animal prints, and the iconic cat logo of the brand, Baby Phat had great appeal. The brand’s aesthetic mirrored the Hip Hop culture of the late ‘90s and early 2000s, and it soon became synonymous with urban glamor.
Under Kimora Lee’s watchful eye, Baby Phat became a trailblazer in the urban fashion scene. It appealed to many celebrities, including Lil’ Kim, Missy Elliot, Mary J. Blige, and Aaliyah. Moreover, Baby Phat was also sought after by fashion enthusiasts, fans of Hip Hop, and young women alike. Over the next few years, the brand became a billion-dollar venture.
The Departure Of Kimora Lee
In 2004, The Kellwood Company, a major fashion manufacturer, acquired Baby Phat. Kellwood decided to keep Kimora Lee in her position as president and creative director. Lee’s contract ended in 2010, and she subsequently left, but she retained ownership of all licensing rights to her collections. Although sales had begun to drop by the late 2000s, Kimora Lee’s exit made them plummet even harder. As time went by, the brand slowly faded from mainstream fashion markets and public consciousness.
Following years of decline, Baby Phat made a grand comeback in 2019 after Kimora Lee announced she had reacquired the brand. She relaunched soon after, and the brand has steadily risen since then. Lee recently announced a new 2023 collection that went on sale on September 29. In this new fall collection, Kimora Lee has gone “back to the basics,” being heavily inspired by the Y2K fashion she’s a pioneer of.
In an exclusive interview with People, Lee referred to the collection as “kind of a relaunch.” She further stated, “I just think because of everything we’ve been through, throughout COVID and everything, it seems like your life is always a relaunch every time you give birth to a different iteration of, you know, your baby, which this is.” The fall collection is priced between $50 and $100 and is now exclusively available on Babyphat.com.
After having 4 children with her past public relationships, Kimora Lee Simmons has revealed she has been left to leave her children alone. Kimora has two children with Russell Simmons, one child with actor Dijmon Hounsou, one child with her ex husband Tim Leissner and an adopted son.
Kimora says not one of her children’s fathers are in their lives.
“I have beautiful children, but our necessity for [men] in our life is very minimal,” she continues. “It’s not all that it’s cracked up to be. It’s not giving what it was supposed to have gave!”
Kimora was only 23 a ‘child bride’ when she married Russell (“I joke but it’s not funny,” she says), and they divorced when their children were still young. She was with actor Djimon Hounsou for five years in her 30s and, from 2014 until last year, she was married to former Goldman Sachs investment banker Tim Leissner, who is currently a key witness in a $4 billion fraud case. (In 2021, Russell sued Kimora and Leissner, accusing them of stealing his stocks from the energy drink company Celsius to cover Leissner’s bail. Last year, it was reported a judge ordered Russell to pay Kimora $100,000 in legal fees. Meanwhile, it was revealed that Leissner had faked divorce papers, and was still married to his ex when he wed Kimora.) “I’m so bruised by it all,” she says. “I feel like I’ve run into con artists every step of the way.”
She says that she has not spoken to Russell in a few years, and she does not co-parent with any of her children’s fathers. When she looks back on her relationships, she can see how she might seem like the common denominator. “It looks like, ‘Well, it’s all you, all fingers point to you, lady. You’re the one.’ I guess it is me, but I think it has more to do with my personality or my stance in society. Something about powerful men and how they really appear to be powerful and big and this and that. But they’re nursing an ego inside of there. Not just these men, any men. Men, powerful men, famous men, rich men, business rich men, whatever you want to call it. There’s a thing there and I don’t know what it is, but I don’t really have a great relationship with any of them and they’ve left me to it to just kind of do things on my own. I do everything on my own. Like I say, I’m a single mom.”
Kimora Lee Simmons says that she’s doing “OK” after she and her two eldest daughters accused ex-husband Russell Simmons of abusive behavior. Kimora spoke about the situation while attending the Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans over the weekend.
“I’m always OK, I’m a tough chick. I’m a single mom of five kids,” she said in the interview. “That’s why I’m here because so many women are here. So much black girl joy, brown girl joy, all the shades of joy. So, it just feels good for me to be in a room like this.”
NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 05: Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons attend the Argyleculture By Russell Simmons show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring 2015 at Helen Mills Event Space on September 5, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Shareif Ziyadat/FilmMagic)
She also described attending the festival as feeling like “coming home.” “Everybody’s been like, ‘Auntie Kimora! Auntie’s here,’” she added. It marks her first public appearance since Father’s Day, when Ming Lee Simmons and Aoki Lee Simmons both blasted Russell. In doing so, Aoki revealed that her father would “yell and scream about a legal situation” while adding that “every phone call” with her father was filled with “anger,” “rage,” “cursing” and “screaming.”
“Until a short time ago, this is the man who told me ‘always defend and look after your mother girls,’ and ‘never let a man curse at you,’ ‘you call Daddy if a man ever tries to yell [at] you or scare you,” she wrote of Russell on Instagram, adding that “real men don’t shout at women and girls.”
Russell eventually publicly apologized for his behavior on his own Instagram page. “DEEPLY sorry for being frustrated and yelling… but know this… there are no conditions… for sure I love you guys more than I love myself,” he wrote. Seemingly addressing himself, he also followed up: “God is testing you a little bit, it’s ok, be strong.”
The daughter of Russell Simmons and Kimora Lee Simmons, Aoki, has spoken out after receiving backlash. She’s been getting hate following her and her mother’s public feud with her father. Kimora took to Instagram earlier this month to expose her ex-husband. She unveiled a screen-recorded clip of Russell screaming at Aoki during a FaceTime call. “I’m so sorry to have to do this,” she said at the time. She explained, “This man has been threatening my kids’ lives.”
Kimora further revealed screenshots of messages between Aoki and her father, where the alleged abuse is detailed further. Amid the feud, Aoki says that she’s been receiving a great deal of misogynistic hate online. “I wonder how your mothers, sisters, daughters, nieces, girlfriends, wives would feel seeing some of the sexist, racist, honestly foul comments and messages some of you ‘men’ are leaving me,” she wrote in a recent Instagram Story.
“The misogynistic stereotypes and names, the absolute hate for women of color a lot of your comments show, just waiting to take your anger at how you feel you’ve been ‘treated’ by women.” Aoki continues, “All of us ‘b*tches are like this’ and ‘this is the problem with you girls/women/black women/hoes/skanks today?’ No, how about all YOU b*tches are like this.“
The 20-year-old then shared a photo of herself as a young child being held by her father. She writes, “Until a short time ago, this is the man who told me ‘always defend and look after your mother girls.” Aoki continues, “‘Never let a man curse at you’ ‘You call your daddy if a man ever tries to yell at you or scare you that’s never ok!’” She explains, “Real men don’t shout at women and girls.” She then calls out the “toxic men” defending her father in her comments section, telling them that their behavior is “pathetic.” Aoki claims that even her father would agree.
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(@saweetie)
