Ashanti and Nelly are Engaged and Expecting First Child Together

Ashanti and Nelly are engaged and expecting their first child together.

The couple revealed their joyous news exclusively to Essence magazine, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

Ashanti, 43, expressed her gratitude and anticipation for motherhood, saying, “This new year of my life is such a blessing full of love, hope, and anticipation. Motherhood is something that I have looked forward to, and sharing this with my family, fiancé, and loyal fans, who have been so supportive of my career, is an amazing experience.”

In a playful Instagram video, Ashanti hinted at her pregnancy, jokingly stating that she would need “about nine months” for her upcoming performance preparations.

Speaking to CNN, she expressed her excitement about becoming a parent and continuing the legacy of love set by her own parents: “As you know, I am so close with my mom and dad, so I am looking forward to being an amazing parent to our child, like they were to me and my sister. Nelly and I are so excited to welcome and love on Baby Haynes.”

Ashanti and Nelly confirmed their rekindled romance in September 2023,  twenty years after their initial relationship began. The news became public when Ashanti attended the MTV VMA Awards carrying a clutch with a photo of her and Nelly from 2003.

During an interview at the event, Ashanti coyly acknowledged their relationship status, while Nelly later confirmed their reconciliation during an appearance on the “Boss Moves with Rasheeda” show last fall.

Their engagement and pregnancy mark a new milestone in their journey together, filled with love, anticipation, and the joy of starting a family.