- Nigerian celebrities have ventured into beautiful relationships that transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, proving that love can flourish between people from different backgrounds
- From Ufuoma McDermott to Uche Jumbo, these celebrities who have married partners from various countries, including Ireland, Tanzania, America, Britain, Colombia
- TheRadar compiled a list of 10 Nigerian celebrities who married foreigners
Love knows no boundaries, and the once-frowned-upon idea of interracial relationships is now celebrated across the globe. While historical discrimination presented challenges, modern love is not limited by boundaries.
Today, people from different races, nationalities, and ethnicities come together, forming beautiful relationships and marriages, celebrating diversity and unity.
Nigerian celebrities, in particular, are making headlines not just for their talents but for their love stories that transcend borders.
From glamorous weddings to heartwarming partnerships, here’s a look at 10 Nigerian celebrities who have embraced love beyond their homeland by marrying foreigners.
1. Ufoma McDermott
Ufuoma Ejenobor, who now goes by Ufuoma McDermott, tied the knot with her Irish husband, Steven McDermott, on April 23, 2010.
She officially changed her name in 2014 and has since welcomed two children with Steven. After a brief hiatus from the Nollywood scene, Ufuoma is back and recently shared a nostalgic photo with her husband, celebrating their enduring love ahead of their anniversary of 15 years together.
2.Simi Drey
In May 2023, actress and host Simi Drey exchanged vows with Julian Flosbach. The couple had a civil wedding in January, followed by a traditional ceremony. This marks Simi's second marriage, and by November 2024, they are set to welcome their first child together, forging a new path in their love story.
3. Mariam Timmer
PR expert and star of Real Housewives of Lagos, Mariam Timmer, met her husband, John Timmer, in October 2013, shortly after he moved to Nigeria. Their initial encounter was not easy, as Mariam initially had no interest. However, John's persistence won her over, and after a blossoming friendship, they were dating by December 2013. He proposed a year later, marking the start of a beautiful journey together.
4. Uche Jombo
Renowned actress Uche Jombo ventured into an international love story when she married Puerto Rican/American Kenney Rodriguez in 2012. Although they have since divorced, the couple share a wonderful son and fond memories of their time together.
5. Kate Henshaw
Iconic actress Kate Henshaw married British-born Roderick James Nuttal in 1999, welcoming a daughter during their 11-year marriage. Their journey together faced challenges, leading to their separation in 2011, but Kate continues to shine in her career and life.
6. Regina Askia
Celebrated actress and humanitarian Regina Askia has been sharing life with American Rudolph ‘Rudy’ Williams for nearly 18 years. The former beauty queen balances her roles as a mother of two and a dedicated activist, exemplifying how love can flourish across cultures.
7. Jim Iyke
The charismatic and sometimes controversial actor, Jim Iyke, tied the knot with Dana Kinduryte, and together they welcomed three children. Despite the couple's divorce, Jim emphasised the importance of maintaining a strong friendship and co-parenting relationship, keeping his family’s well-being at the forefront.
8. Priscilla Ojo
Social media influencer Priscilla Ojo made headlines when she went public with her relationship with Tanzanian partner Juma Jux. This romantic cross-cultural union has left fans enamoured as they share glimpses of their love on social media.
9. Ik Ogbonna
Actor and model Ik Ogbonna celebrated love with Colombian Sonia Mora. Their relationship showcased the beautiful blend of two vibrant cultures, creating a harmonious family life together. However, their relationship ended, despite having a son. Sonia Morales publicly addressed the end of her marriage with IK Ogbonna on YouTube in 2019. She stated they had legally parted ways. While IK Ogbonna initially denied the divorce rumour, Sonia Morales confirmed the separation.
10. Anita Hogan
The Nigerian actress and reality TV star Anita Hogan got married to her Dutch husband Ted, a few years ago, after a scandal that many thought would rock their marriage. Five years and two lovely kids later, Anita Hogan is making a return to the Nigerian movie industry. She is an actress, known for Just One Blood, I Want My Money and Jealous Lovers.
Other celebrities who are in a relationship with foreigners include skit-maker Trinity, Etinosa Idemudia, and others.
Nigerian celebrities who tied the knot in 2024
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Nigerian entertainment industry witnessed some celebrity weddings in 2024.
From Veekee James’ glamorous wedding to Queen-Mercy Atang’s private and intimate wedding
Here is the list of the numerous weddings we witnessed among celebrities in 2024