The Real Housewives of Atlanta fans are reeling after Bravo icon Phaedra Parks dropped a bombshell this weekend: she’s officially married her younger boyfriend, Cheick Kone, in a romantic and secret ceremony that took even her closest friends by surprise. The shocking news marks a major new chapter for one of RHOA’s most beloved and polarizing stars — and fans can’t stop talking about it.
Rumors about Phaedra’s new romance began swirling earlier this year when the 50-year-old attorney and television personality was spotted attending events with Cheick, a handsome 29-year-old model and entrepreneur originally from the Ivory Coast. At the time, Phaedra played coy, calling him “a wonderful friend” — but insiders now say the relationship was far more serious than anyone realized.
“They’ve been quietly dating for months,” said a close friend. “Phaedra didn’t want to make it public until she knew it was real — and it’s very real. Cheick treats her like a queen.”
The pair reportedly met at a fashion gala in Atlanta last year, where sparks flew instantly. “He was charming, respectful, and confident,” another source shared. “They connected over their shared faith, ambition, and sense of humor. He makes her feel young and adored.”
A Secret Wedding Fit for a Southern Belle
According to sources close to the couple, Phaedra and Cheick tied the knot in a private ceremony in Atlanta last weekend, surrounded by family, close friends, and her two sons, Ayden and Dylan.
The wedding reportedly took place at a luxury private estate in Buckhead, with an intimate garden ceremony followed by a candlelit reception. Phaedra stunned in a custom off-the-shoulder lace gown by
Esé Azénabor, featuring intricate beading and a cathedral-length veil. Cheick looked dapper in a tailored white tuxedo jacket and black trousers.
“Everything about the ceremony was elegant, southern, and spiritual,” said one guest. “There wasn’t a dry eye in the room. Phaedra looked happier than she’s ever been.”
The couple exchanged handwritten vows, and at one point, Phaedra reportedly became emotional as she thanked her sons for “teaching me what real love looks like.”
From Reality TV Drama to Real-Life Romance
For longtime RHOA fans, Phaedra’s journey to happiness has been anything but smooth. After a messy and highly publicized divorce from ex-husband Apollo Nida, the reality star kept her love life out of the spotlight for years. She focused on raising her sons, expanding her businesses, and making a triumphant return to television — most recently on
The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip and Married to Medicine.
Now, insiders say she’s finally found peace and joy with Cheick. “He’s brought balance back into her life,” said one friend. “He’s younger, yes, but he’s mature, driven, and spiritual. He really loves her — and she knows it.”
Cheick, who has built a successful modeling career and launched several business ventures in real estate and fashion, has reportedly embraced life as a stepfather. “He’s very close with Phaedra’s kids,” another insider said. “He respects her family and fits right in.”
