Victoria Monét and her fitness trainer boyfriend, John Gaines, have called it quits after nearly ten months of dating. ‘Moment’ songstress and her beau took to their fans via a joint statement on September 23 to let them know they were splitting, yet vowed to co-parent their three-year-old daughter Hazel.
In the statement, Monét and Gaines said their romantic relationship “just didn’t work out.” They clarified, though, that they had parted ways amicably with no cheating or toxic behavior. The lovers said they had been trying to handle the separation away from the public for the past ten months, but the growing speculation and false allegations against them prompted them to make the news public.
“We still completely love and respect each other, but we are no longer a couple,” they said. The couple has emphasized that their primary concern is still with their daughter Hazel: “No relationship status can take away or replace that fact. We’re committed more than ever to doing the inner work and trust that God will place us both where we belong in due time.”
Monét and Gaines promised to co-parent and said they wanted to be in a space of love for Hazel: “She is our priority forever,” they assured, explaining they are committed to remaining a family given the new status of their romantic relationship.
They also provided a moment to speak directly to their fans, requesting the critical component of privacy and understanding during this transition. “Please allow us the peace and space to maintain a safe and happy environment to continue to co-parent to the best of our ability for Hazel,” they wrote. “When you see us together with Hazel, be understanding and gentle.”
This is an announcement that carries much emotional weight not only in their family but also among their staunch fans, who have followed the journey of the couple. The musings by Monét and Gaines about personal growth and mutual respect remind us, no matter the outcome, so long as there is change, there can be different versions of love. As they venture into their new phase of life, their commitment to co-parenting becomes a very real statement to the strength of their bond, enabling Hazel to continue to flourish in a very loving atmosphere.
