While the world was shocked to find out back in September that Teyana Taylor and Iman Shumpert had been separated for months, what proved to be the bigger shock were court documents allegedly “leaked” over the Thanksgiving holiday that showed that Taylor actually quietly filed for divorce from Shumpert back in January 2023.
The documents were obtained by TMZ, who alleged that Taylor was parting ways with the NBA star over accusations of him being jealous of her fame, insecure, narcissistic and more. What’s more is that Taylor initially allegedly filed with just their initials to keep the matter private, but Shumpert allegedly filed his paperwork with both of their full names which put the documents and their relationship dynamic smack-dab in the center of controversy. And while those accusations were enough to get folks talking and spearheaded their relationship online, they seemingly didn’t sit too well with Taylor who later took to her Instagram to post a since-expired statement to her Instagram story addressing TMZ’s coverage.
“I mind my business, don’t bother nobody & y’all know I’ve never played about my children, family, & our privacy,” she wrote. “I have not spoken on this private matter to any media outlets or blogs etc. So everyone claiming ‘Teyana said’ didn’t get any statements directly from ME.”
She continued:
“It is very heartbreaking that someone would take out the time to make such a private matter public for the world to see. However, protecting my family is one thing I’ve ALWAYS done & for my children, I will continue to do. Please if y’all love y’all play nieces, Junie & Rue, like y’all have shown, please allow myself & my family some privacy to resolve this matter in peace. Love y’all.”
In a separate statement given to the outlet, Taylor’s lawyer added: “Ms. Taylor has tried to resolve this matter amicably and privately in order to protect all parties involved, particularly the parties’ minor children.”
Shumpert’s lawyer shared similar sentiments saying, “Mr. Shumpert hopes parties and counsel can work toward a fair resolution, keeping the best interests of the children of paramount concern.”