Last Updated on February 28, 2026 by Ayoko Ahite

Kimora Lee Simmons has reportedly changed her legal name back to her maiden name, Kimora Lee. This change comes amid ongoing disputes with her ex-husband, Russell Simmons, to whom she was married from 1998 to 2009. Together, they share two daughters, Ming and Aoki.

After their divorce, Kimora and Russell remained on good terms, and she made him the godfather of the additional children she later welcomed. Even after she remarried, Kimora continued to carry “Simmons,” a choice many criticized on social media.

So why now?

Recently, Kimora and Russell had a heated back-and-forth on social media after he accused her of stealing valuable stock from him. He also claimed that she threatened to keep their children away from him if he took legal action for the alleged stock theft, an accusation she called “lies.”

Additionally, sexual assault allegations made against Russell over the years have recently resurfaced amid accusations that he failed to pay millions in confidential settlement agreements to the accusers. This prompted Kimora to call him out amid their family feud, saying, “Go negotiate and answer your accusers.”

Therefore, this name change seems like a way for Kimora to distance herself from the drama and negativity and focus on herself and her brand.

In a statement to Complex, Kimora explained that the change “is intentional and rooted in control over her name, brand, and future.” She further stated that her focus is “on protecting her family, building a legacy, and moving forward with grace and power.”