Akon's Divorce and Private Life: The End of a 28-Year Marriage

Singer and producer Akon is facing major changes in his personal life. Just days before what would have been their 29th wedding anniversary, his wife Tomeka Thiam has filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences.

According to court documents, Tomeka is requesting joint legal custody but sole physical custody of their 17-year-old daughter, Journey. She has also asked for spousal support while seeking to prevent the court from awarding any support to Akon in return.

“I’mma let it stay a rumor. I like the fact that people are guessing now, I love it. I’m not confirming nor denying,” he said at the time.

The split comes as a rare glimpse into Akon’s private world. Over the years, the Smack That hitmaker has remained tight-lipped about his relationships, often fueling speculation that he practices polygamy.

During a 2022 interview with VladTV, he playfully addressed the rumors without confirming or denying them.

Akon, whose real name is Aliaune Badara Thiam, has fathered nine children, seven boys and two girls with multiple women. The divorce documents confirm that number, aligning with his past statements.

The 52-year-old has also spoken openly about fatherhood, even comparing his family dynamic to that of TV host and actor Nick Cannon, who is known for having 12 children with six women.

“That’s how life is supposed to be,” Akon said in a 2023 interview on The Zeze Mills Show. “Why not? [Nick’s] rich. He’s responsible. He takes care of every one of those children. I got nine and I’m there for every one of mine.”

While Akon has yet to publicly comment on the divorce filing, the news underscores a new chapter for the superstarone that will unfold away from the spotlight of his music career.

Below is a timeline of the couple's relationship.

Mid-1990s – Akon (Aliaune Thiam) and Tomeka Thiam reportedly begin their relationship before his rise to fame. She is often described as his longtime partner and main wife.

1996 – The two marry, starting what would become nearly three decades together.

2010s – While Akon becomes a global superstar with hits like Lonely and Smack That, Tomeka largely remains out of the spotlight. During this period, speculation grows about Akon practicing polygamy and having multiple partners, though he neither confirms nor denies the rumors.

2010–2020s – The couple raise their daughter Journey, who was born in 2007/2008 (she is listed as 17 in the divorce filings). Akon also publicly acknowledges having nine children with several women, though Tomeka is considered his main spouse.

2022 – Akon addresses polygamy speculation in a VladTV interview, saying he enjoys letting the public guess about his love life.

2023 – In an interview on The Zeze Mills Show, Akon speaks candidly about being a father to nine children, comparing his lifestyle to Nick Cannon’s.

September 2025 – Just three days before what would have been their 29th wedding anniversary Tomeka Thiam files for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. She seeks custody of their daughter Journey and spousal support, marking the official end of their marriage.