Ashanti is pregnant, expecting first baby with boyfriend Nelly

In a heartwarming turn of events, Ashanti and Nelly have announced they are expecting their first child together, as reported by US Weekly on December 4. The couple, whose love story has spanned nearly two decades, is gearing up for a new chapter in their lives. While this marks Ashanti's first foray into motherhood, Nelly is already a proud parent to daughter Chanelle, 29, and son Cornell Haynes III, 24, from a previous relationship.

The couple first captivated the public's attention when they began dating in 2003, sharing a love that endured both on-and-off phases. After a decade together, they parted ways in 2015, leading to speculation about new romances for both. However, fate had other plans as they recently reignited their romance, with rumors circulating since their public appearance at a boxing match in April 2023.

Sources close to the couple confirmed the rekindling of their relationship, with one insider telling Entertainment Tonight in May, "Nelly and Ashanti are back together and both of them are happy." The joyous news of their impending parenthood adds a delightful twist to their renewed love story.

Reflecting on their journey, Ashanti shared on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in December 2022, "What I will say is we’re in a better place. Before it was like [*punching*]. [Now], we have some conversations. So it was cool." Nelly echoed these sentiments in February 2023 at the Grammys, stating, "Time does wonders for a lot of different things. And time is one of those things that allows you time to reflect on what’s what, and you get a chance to see things in a different light and see your faults. So I think we both did that and it’s cool that we're just friends."

As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of their bundle of joy, Ashanti and Nelly's love story reminds us that sometimes, love finds its way back, and happiness knows no timeline. Here's to the next chapter for this radiant couple!