Akon’s Wife, Tomeka Thiam, Files for Divorce After Nearly Three Decades of Marriage

 

Tomeka Thiam, the longtime wife of Senegalese-American singer and songwriter Akon, has reportedly filed for divorce, bringing an end to their marriage of almost 29 years.

The couple, who tied the knot on September 15, 1996, share a 17-year-old child together. The news of the split has generated shockwaves among fans, considering the length of their union and Akon’s public image as one of the most influential figures in global music.

Reason Behind the Divorce Filing

According to documents obtained by TMZ, Tomeka filed her petition just four days before their 29th wedding anniversary, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason for ending the marriage.

What Tomeka Is Demanding

Court filings reveal that Tomeka Thiam is seeking joint legal and physical custody of their teenage child. She is also requesting spousal support, while specifically asking the court to bar Akon from seeking any form of financial support from her.

The move highlights not only a personal rift but also a legal battle that could draw wider public attention, given Akon’s wealth, global brand, and his history of unconventional relationships.

Akon’s Personal Life Under Scrutiny

Akon has never shied away from discussing his personal life in interviews. The singer, who rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits like Lonely and Smack That, has fathered multiple children with different women, including Tomeka Thiam.

While he has spoken openly about his beliefs on polygamy and non-traditional family structures, Tomeka has mostly maintained a low profile, focusing on her career as a businesswoman and hairstylist. She owns a well-known beauty salon in Buckhead, Atlanta, Georgia.

Public Reactions

News of the divorce filing has sparked mixed reactions on social media:

• Deeply Demen wrote: “Wow, 29 years down the drain? Heartbreaking.”

• Fernada joked: “Girl waited 28 years and 361 days like she was trying to unlock a secret achievement before leaving 😭.”

• Hood 2 Reality commented: “I’m trying to understand. He’s considered the ideal man—money, looks, fame, lifestyle—and she’s divorcing him?”

• DJ Runna added: “She put the blame on him, now he’s Mr. Lonely.”

What This Means Going Forward

While neither Akon nor Tomeka has publicly spoken about the divorce, the development has stirred speculation about the possible impact on Akon’s personal brand and philanthropic ventures.

The singer, who has invested heavily in Africa through projects like Akon Lighting Africa, has often portrayed himself as a family-oriented man. With the divorce now entering the public eye, analysts suggest that the proceedings could either remain relatively private or become a high-profile case given Akon’s celebrity status.