Akon Faces Divorce After Nearly Three Decades of Marriage
Global music star Akon is undergoing a significant personal transition as his wife, Tomeka Thiam, has officially filed for divorce after nearly 30 years of marriage. According to court documents obtained by People, Thiam filed the petition in Fulton County, Georgia, on September 11, 2025, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason for the dissolution of their union.
The couple, who share one daughter, are approaching what would have been their 29th wedding anniversary next month. In her petition, Thiam is seeking joint legal custody of their daughter while requesting primary physical custody, with visitation rights for Akon. Additionally, she is asking for spousal support and has requested the court to deny any support Akon may seek.
As the divorce proceedings unfold, Akon, 51, continues to publicly advocate for polygamy, a practice he links to his cultural heritage. In a 2022 appearance on The Zeze Mills Show, he described polygamy as a natural aspect of his culture, stating, “(Polygamy is) part of our culture. Absolutely. For me, it looks normal, because it’s culture for us.”
Akon has openly acknowledged having nine children and often discusses the challenges of balancing family life with his demanding career. He remarked that while he strives to provide financial stability for his family, his presence at everyday events is limited. “My job ain’t to be doing all that extra stuff and these holidays and recitals,” he explained. “While I’m taking care of my responsibility to make sure the family has a roof over their head and food, if I have the time to do that and show love, yes, I will do that.”
He also highlighted how technology helps him stay connected with his children, saying, “Me showing up for my children is me being there for them financially. I’m there if I’m around. But it’s impossible to be everywhere and every place. And technology allows me to be there every day, FaceTime and other methods.”
As of now, neither Akon nor Thiam has issued an official statement regarding the divorce filing.
