Legendary singer, songwriter, and record producer Lionel Richie has a talent that spans generations. From soulful ballads to infectious dance hits, he has soundtracked decades worth of love and heartbreak. With a career that has thrived for over five decades, he’s more than just a music icon; he’s a cultural legend. From his early days with the Commodores to his solo success, Richie’s musical talent knows no bounds.
Beyond the light, however, his personal life has also kept fans curious, especially when it comes to his relationships. Here’s a deep dive into his past marriages and who his partner is now.
Who Is Lionel Richie?
Lionel Richie is a Grammy-winning artist with the vocals and heartfelt lyrics that have made him a staple in pop, soul and R&B music for decades. He first rose to fame in the 1970s as a member of the Commodores, the pulse behind classics like “Easy” and “Three Times a Lady.”
However, things took a turn in the ’80s when he launched a wildly successful solo career. This is when he came out with chart-toppers like “Hello,” “Stuck on You,” and the global anthem “All Night Long.” Beyond his musical achievements, Richie is also known for his philanthropic work, his role as a judge on “American Idol,” and his undeniable influence on modern music. With a career that’s somehow still going strong, Richie continues to prove that true talent and charm only gets better with age.
Lionel Richie and Brenda Harvey-Richie
So who stood alongside Richie during his rise to fame? His college sweetheart and first wife, of course. Richie and Brenda Harvey-Richie tied the knot in 1975, with their marriage lasting nearly two decades. Together, they famously adopted Nicole Richie, who today still stands as a cultural icon. Their relationship made headlines for both its longevity and dramatic end, including some public scandal and a fair share of legal troubles. Despite their tumultuous finish, Brenda played a foundational role in Richie’s early career, supporting him through stardom.
Lionel Richie and Diane Alexander
Then came Diane Alexander, who was more than just Richie’s second wife. She was a major part of his life during a vibrant chapter of his career. The two met in the late 1980s, while Richie was still married to his first wife, and began dating not long after. Their relationship eventually led to marriage in 1995 and the birth of two children, Miles and Sofia Richie. Diane, a former dancer and fashion designer, was glued to Richie’s side in the ’90s and early 2000s. Though they divorced in 2004, the two have remained lovingly connected through co-parenting and mutual respect.
Lionel Richie and Lisa Parigi
So who is Richie with today? Though not yet married, Richie is in a long-term relationship with Lisa Parigi, a Swiss model and entrepreneur. The lovebirds, who have a 40-year age gap, have been together for several years, sharing glimpses of their highly luxurious lifestyle on social media. Aside from modeling, she’s also the founder and CEO of the lifestyle brand The Estate Collection and the skincare line Glow Up Beauty. While they’ve kept much of their romance relatively private, the two prove that a true connection can transcend a hefty age difference.
Who Are Lionel Richie’s Kids?
Right next to being a music icon and loving partner, Lionel Richie is also a proud dad. He has three children, each who has claimed their own right to the spotlight. His eldest daughter Nicole Richie was adopted during his marriage to Brenda Harvey-Richie. She rose to fame in the early 2000s as a reality TV star on “The Simple Life” and has since sustained a career as a fashion designer, actress and philanthropist.
With his second wife, Diane Alexander, he welcomed two more children: Miles Richie and Sofia Richie. Miles has dabbled in modeling and entertainment, while Sofia has made a major name for herself in the fashion world, modeling for top brands and becoming a Gen Z style icon. Her 2023 wedding to Elliot Grange went viral for being ultra-chic and high-end. Though all three of his kids have strutted down their own path, they each one thing in common: star power and a loving father.