The ambiance at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards heated up considerably for Nelly and his wife, Ashanti. On Monday, March 17, during the ceremony held at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, Nelly, now 50, performed a mesmerizing medley of his iconic hits, including “Hot in Herre,” “Air Force Ones,” “Ride Wit Me,” and “Country Grammar.” To everyone’s surprise, when his set concluded, he was joined on stage not only by applause but also by his wife, Ashanti, 44, who presented him with the prestigious 2025 iHeartRadio Landmark Award. This accolade celebrates artists whose album releases have left an indelible mark on culture over the span of multiple decades.
Nelly seemed utterly taken aback when Ashanti dashed onto the stage with the gleaming trophy, his astonishment evident on his face. The couple then shared a tender kiss, before turning to beam at the roaring crowd, their smiles reflecting pure joy and affection.
The couple utilized the evening as a romantic date night, strolling the red carpet earlier in the night. Ashanti looked stunning in a chic black dress paired with a leather skirt and a sleek black cutout top, accessorizing her ensemble with gleaming gold bangle bracelets and hoop earrings. Nelly, on the other hand, started his night in an all-black attire, adorned with a intricate diamond chain necklace, before switching into a stylish two-piece tan sweatsuit for his performance. Sunglasses added a touch of cool to both his outfits.
Nelly and Ashanti had a tumultuous relationship, dating intermittently from 2003 to 2013. However, rumors of reconciliation began swirling in April 2023 when they were spotted holding hands in Las Vegas. Nelly later confirmed that they had mended their fences, stating on the “Boss Moves With Rasheeda” podcast in September 2023, “I think it surprised both of us, though. It wasn’t anything that I don’t think was planned. Before, I felt like both of us were doing our own things career-wise, and when too many people get involved, it can get complicated.”
According to a source close to the couple, they did not want to rush into anything after reconnecting. The insider told Us Weekly, “Ashanti never would’ve imagined reconciling with Nelly, but they’re enjoying spending time together.”
In December 2023, Us Weekly exclusively revealed that Ashanti was pregnant, and the couple secretly exchanged vows that same month. They welcomed their son, Kareem Kinkaide Haynes, in July 2024. (Nelly also has four other children from previous relationships.)
While discussing the arrival of her bundle of joy, Ashanti shared with Entertainment Tonight that she gave birth a little earlier than anticipated, causing Nelly to “fly in at the last minute.” She recounted, “Seeing all of us in the delivery room and witnessing his face for the first time, I couldn’t help but cry. It was incredibly emotional and spiritual. I had envisioned this moment for so long.”
Ashanti emphasized that she had always desired to have children and get married, adding, “I never imagined that I would end up with my ex from so long ago, after so many twists and turns in life.”
