Kenneth Petty, who is married to Nicki Minaj, has lived a life marked by both romance and controversy. The couple first met as teenagers at LaGuardia High School in Queens, New York. Although they briefly dated, they lost touch over the years.
Their paths crossed again in 2018, and their relationship quickly blossomed. Minaj and Petty’s romance became public when Minaj posted a slideshow of the two of them on Instagram in December of 2018.
Their connection has been described as deep, with Minaj’s friend Derrick Milano stating that Petty “really knows her” and offers a type of support and love that Minaj values deeply.
Nicki Minaj and Kenneth Petty (Credit: YouTube)
Despite their connection, Petty’s past has been controversial. He is a registered sex offender, convicted of attempted rape in the first degree in 1995.
He was also involved in a manslaughter case, serving seven years in prison before being released. These issues have caused scrutiny from the public and the media, especially when Petty failed to register as a sex offender after moving to California.
In response, Minaj has defended her husband, including addressing their relationship on social media and in public interviews, where she emphasized the authenticity of their love despite his past.
Minaj and Petty married in October 2019, after Minaj confirmed the news on social media with a video showing “bride” and “groom” items.
Minaj has been vocal about her happiness with Petty, mentioning how their relationship has brought her peace and joy.
She has repeatedly said that Petty, who is not a public figure and avoids the spotlight, makes her feel understood and secure. Their marriage is built on shared history and a bond that Minaj has said goes beyond fame.
Nicki Minaj (Credit: Pinterest)
The couple has one child, a son, whom they welcomed in 2020. Though they have kept details about their son private, Minaj has expressed deep love and gratitude for her new role as a mother.
Despite the challenges, including Petty’s legal troubles and public backlash, Minaj has remained committed to her husband. Their relationship has faced criticism from figures like Wendy Williams and even rappers like Megan Thee Stallion, who referenced Petty’s criminal past in music.
However, Minaj has not shied away from defending her husband’s past and their relationship, stressing that they have built a solid, supportive life together.
Minaj and Petty celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary in October 2024, with Minaj sharing a heartfelt post about the strength of their bond.
Their love story, with its ups and downs, continues to be an important part of Minaj’s life narrative as she navigates both her personal and professional worlds.
