Toni Braxton wanted to kick off the new year without any misinformation. The 56-year-old R&B singer addressed rumors circulating on social media suggesting that she and her former fiancé, Birdman, had tied the knot over the New Year's Eve weekend.
On January 1, Toni took to Instagram to clarify, writing, «My dear friend @birdman and I are not married… never been married. We are both single.» She accompanied her post with a screenshot of a headline declaring, «Congratulations! Toni Braxton and Birdman Married in a Private Ceremony in Mexico,» adding the hashtag, "#fakenews."
Despite appearances of a strong relationship just two months earlier, with a photo of a sweet kiss shared in November 2023, the singer deleted the image later, according to Complex.
The on-and-off relationship between the former couple reportedly began in 2016. Although they initially got engaged and later called it off in 2019, they continued to stay together. During that period, both Toni and Birdman unfollowed each other on Instagram.
Toni had previously spoken to PEOPLE about the evolution of her friendship with Birdman into something more. Describing him as her «bestie for like 15 or 16 years,» she highlighted their long-standing connection. Toni mentioned how Birdman had been a supportive presence at her baby showers, plays, and shows. Despite not anticipating a romantic relationship, Toni acknowledged Birdman's caring nature, especially during a challenging tour in 2016 when she fell ill.
Sharing the backstory, Toni recalled, «Every night he would ask me, ‘Are you OK? Are you good?’ I said, ‘Oh my God, he’s such a great guy!’ When Birdman finally made his move, he told me he always