Fantasia Barrino, the celebrated American Idol alum and star of The Color Purple, has had an eventful life both on and off the stage. Her journey through fame has been well documented, but her personal life has often caught just as much attention—particularly her marriage to Kendall Taylor. While rumors of Fantasia Barrino divorcing her husband surface now and then, their relationship remains a strong and inspiring testament to love, faith, and perseverance.
How Fantasia Barrino Met Her Husband, Kendall Taylor
Fantasia Barrino and Kendall Taylor’s love story began in North Carolina, the state where they both grew up. Their paths first crossed at a rooftop bar in Charlotte in 2015,
and there was an immediate connection between them. Fantasia had spent time working on herself before meeting Taylor, acknowledging that she had emotional baggage that needed addressing. She admitted in an interview with The Breakfast Club in 2019, “I knew I was broken as hell… I wanted a relationship, but there’s no way I was going to have it with all that baggage.”
During this period of self-reflection, Fantasia had created a vision board of the qualities she desired in a partner, including someone who would love her, her children, and share her faith in God. Kendall Taylor checked every box. Fantasia later recalled that everything she had listed was embodied by Taylor. They began dating soon after that fateful meeting, and within three weeks, they decided to marry.
A Quick Courthouse Wedding and a Lavish Yacht Celebration
While many celebrity relationships unfold under intense media scrutiny, Fantasia and Kendall kept their courthouse wedding in 2015 a secret from the world. Fantasia described the decision to marry as spontaneous yet rooted in mutual certainty. “He was like, ‘Let’s do it,’ and we went and got married at the courthouse. None of y’all knew. The world didn’t know,” she revealed.
However, later that year, they celebrated their union with a more public wedding ceremony on a yacht, which Fantasia shared with her fans on Instagram. In a heartfelt post, she wrote about the happiness she felt with Taylor, saying, “This Man… God made him just for Me and me just for Him.”
Fantasia and Kendall’s Growing Family
In May 2021, Fantasia and Kendall welcomed their first child together, a daughter named Keziah Taylor. The couple had faced fertility challenges, making their journey to parenthood all the more meaningful. Fantasia revealed in an Instagram Live session that conceiving Keziah had been a three-year journey, filled with highs and lows. Alongside Keziah, Fantasia is also a mother to son Dallas Xavier and daughter Zion Quari from previous relationships, while Kendall is a father to a son named Trey.
Kendall is also a proud grandfather to two grandchildren, whom he often mentions in his public appearances and social media posts.
Kendall Taylor’s Impact on Fantasia Barrino’s Life and Career
Kendall Taylor has been a pillar of support for Fantasia throughout their marriage, standing by her side both personally and professionally. He’s not just her husband but also a business partner. Together, they co-own Rock Soul Entertainment, a record label.
Their partnership extends beyond music; in 2022, they co-authored a relationship book titled No Crowns in the Castle: Building a Strong Relationship and a Harmonious Life. The book offers readers faith-based relationship advice, emphasizing communication and mutual respect.
In addition to their joint ventures, Kendall has founded a non-profit organization called Salute 1st. The organization aims to help men overcome challenges and toxic perspectives, encouraging them to build emotional intelligence and leadership skills. Kendall’s inspiration to start Salute 1st stemmed from his own troubled youth, including surviving a violent shootout at 16 that left a bullet lodged in his lungs.
Celebrating Success and Each Other
Fantasia Barrino has often credited Kendall Taylor with being her biggest cheerleader. In 2023, when Fantasia received a Golden Globe nomination for her role in The Color Purple, it was Kendall who first informed her of the honor. His unwavering belief in her talent and dedication to her growth has been a driving force behind her success.
Kendall’s pride in Fantasia is evident in his public statements. Ahead of the release of The Color Purple, Kendall took to social media to express his excitement, saying, “I’m thankful People will Finally get to witness one of your greatest bodies of work. I’m thrilled that God will soon speak directly through your gift of Music.”
Their mutual support and dedication to each other serve as an inspiring example of partnership. Whether navigating the demands of Hollywood or focusing on family life, Fantasia and Kendall continue to grow stronger together.
Addressing Divorce Rumors
Given Fantasia Barrino’s high-profile status, rumors of a potential divorce between her and Kendall Taylor have periodically surfaced. However, the couple has continually debunked these rumors, reinforcing their love and commitment. Fantasia has shared in interviews that Kendall has helped her heal from past traumas, and their relationship is built on a foundation of faith and communication.
Rather than let these rumors distract them, Fantasia and Kendall remain focused on building their life together and supporting each other’s dreams. Their ability to withstand external pressures is a testament to the strength of their bond.
Conclusion
Fantasia Barrino and Kendall Taylor’s love story is one filled with faith, resilience, and genuine connection. While their relationship has faced public scrutiny and the occasional rumor, they continue to support and uplift each other, both personally and professionally. From their whirlwind courthouse wedding to their growing family and shared business ventures, Fantasia and Kendall’s journey is a powerful example of enduring love.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long have Fantasia Barrino and Kendall Taylor been married?
Fantasia Barrino and Kendall Taylor have been married since 2015, making their marriage over eight years strong.
2. Where did Fantasia Barrino meet her husband?
Fantasia and Kendall first met at a rooftop bar in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2015.
3. Do Fantasia and Kendall have children together?
Yes, Fantasia and Kendall have a daughter named Keziah, born in May 2021. Fantasia also has two children from previous relationships, and Kendall has a son from a previous relationship.
4. What is Kendall Taylor’s non-profit organization?
Kendall Taylor runs a non-profit called Salute 1st, which aims to help men develop emotional intelligence, leadership skills, and overcome negative influences.
5. Are there any rumors about Fantasia Barrino divorcing her husband?
Yes, rumors about Fantasia divorcing Kendall occasionally surface, but the couple has continually debunked them, reaffirming their love and commitment.
