Akon has opened up about his polygamous lifestyle, revealing a strict hierarchy within his family that places his first wife at the centre of the household. The 53-year-old singer, known for hits such as Lonely and Smack That, discussed his private life during an appearance on the We Need To Talk podcast.
Akon, who has previously confirmed having nine children, declined to disclose the exact number of wives he currently has, saying: 'I'll just leave that to your imagination.' He explained that his wives understand the family dynamic, with the first wife holding a position of utmost respect. 'Nobody violates wife No. 1. The moment they violate, (they're) out the door,' he stated.
The Senegalese-American musician emphasised the sacrifices made by the first wife as additional partners join the family. He argued that polygamy benefits women, as the man bears the responsibility of caring for all wives equally. 'Oftentimes when the family is united in that way, the benefit is more for the woman than it is for the man,' he said.
Akon credited communication as key to making the arrangement work, advising that rules must be laid down and abided by. The comments come months after reports emerged that Tomeka Thiam, believed to be his first wife, filed for divorce in September 2025 after nearly 29 years of marriage.
