In the world of music and entertainment, few pairs capture the public’s imagination like Nelly and Ashanti. The iconic duo is not only known for their chart-topping hits but also for their tumultuous relationship, navigating the complexities of love, loss, and reconciliation. Recently, they have become synonymous with the term “spinning the block,” a phrase commonly used to describe reconnecting with an ex, and they seem perfectly comfortable wearing that label.
This September, the beloved hip-hop and R&B artists have taken a significant step by launching a new reality series titled “Nelly and Ashanti: We Belong Together,” airing on Peacock. In this exciting project, the creators aim to delve deeper into their relationship through a retrospective lens, showcasing the journey they’ve undertaken as a couple and as parents, particularly after reuniting a decade following their 2013 split. Additionally, Nelly is set to release a country-inspired single aptly named “Spin the Block,” emphasizing the theme of second chances in relationships.
The reality show promises to reveal various facets of their lives, although one area remains notably private: their son, affectionately nicknamed “KK.” In any scenes featuring the toddler, his face is intentionally blurred or obscured, a decision that Nelly respects deeply. During an interview with CNN, he expressed understanding regarding this choice, acknowledging that it marks Ashanti’s first experience with motherhood and the potential anxiety that comes with the public eye’s scrutiny. Notably, Nelly himself is a father of four children, gaining insight into the nurturing and protective instinct that envelops being a parent.
Throughout their relationship, which began around 2003, they have experienced significant ups and downs. Their initial breakup was characterized by considerable strife, making their eventual reconnection in 2021 all the more surprising for supporters. During a Verzuz performance, Nelly’s embrace of Ashanti ignited a wave of nostalgia and curiosity, igniting conversations about their past and future together. Ashanti humorously remarked to CNN that “the block was closed for a long time,” reflecting on the longevity of their separation before the flames of romance were reignited.
After confirming their rekindled relationship in September 2023, they took things further, announcing their engagement and Ashanti’s pregnancy in April 2024. Following this, the couple quietly tied the knot in December 2023, with their son, Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, arriving shortly after in July 2024. As they navigate their new roles as parents, the series showcases their family dynamics, shedding light on Ashanti’s efforts to juggle motherhood and her musical career and Nelly’s ambition to revive his fashion line, Apple Bottom.
The couple does not shy away from discussing challenging topics during the show. One such moment revolves around the backlash Nelly faced for accepting an invitation to perform at the Liberty Ball, hosted by Donald Trump, in January 2025. This subject, along with Ashanti’s previous relationship with music executive Irv Gotti—who unfortunately passed away in February at the age of 54—will undoubtedly provoke thought and discussion among viewers.
Nelly has articulated that a motivation behind launching the series came from his desire for the world to see Ashanti beyond her polished public persona, revealing the humor and charm he experiences daily as her husband. He emphasized the importance of authenticity, hoping that their fans would enjoy this deeper glimpse into their lives.
Despite Nelly’s familiarity with reality television—having starred in the 2014 series “Nellyville”—Ashanti admits her reservations regarding the intrusion into their lives. However, her trust in Nelly ultimately swayed her to participate. Speculation persists regarding whether they plan to expand their family further, although Ashanti remained focused on their son’s upcoming first birthday celebration. With Nelly cheerfully assuring that he is up for more children, the couple appears committed to embracing whatever the future holds.
The premiere of “Nelly and Ashanti: We Belong Together” on Peacock promises an exhilarating blend of nostalgia, love, and honest storytelling, making it a must-watch for fans of this beloved couple. The journey of Nelly and Ashanti signifies not just personal growth, but also the broader narrative of love’s potential to persist, evolve, and blossom anew.
