Ricky Martin and Jwan Yosef Matt Baron/Shutterstock
Ricky Martin and his husband, Jwan Yosef, have mutually decided to separate after being married for six years. In a joint statement to People on Thursday, July 6, they expressed their intention to end their marriage while emphasizing their commitment to their children and acknowledging the cherished experiences they have had as a couple throughout the years.
Martin, aged 51, and Yosef, aged 38, expressed their utmost desire to maintain a harmonious and peaceful family dynamic. They hope to continue co-parenting their children together while preserving the deep respect and love they share for one another.
Their romantic journey began in 2015 when they connected through social media. The couple made their first public appearance as a couple at the 2016 amFAR Inspiration Gala in Brazil. It was during an interview on The Ellen DeGeneres Show later that same year when Martin announced their engagement.
"I nervously proposed, but with bated breath, I got down on one knee and experienced a truly beautiful moment," he enthusiastically shared. "And guess what? He said yes!"
Fast forward two years, Martin delightedly disclosed that he and Yosef had officially tied the knot. "I am now a proud husband," he excitedly revealed to E! News in 2018, hinting at a grand celebration to commemorate their union. "We exchanged heartfelt vows, and we've completed all the necessary paperwork, including prenuptial agreements and everything."
The couple, who are now estranged, have two children together: a daughter named Lucia, who is 4 years old, and a son named Renn, who is 3 years old. Prior to his relationship with Yosef, Martin became a father to twins Matteo and Valentino in 2008 through surrogacy.
The news of their divorce follows a previous incident where Martin was subject to a restraining order under Puerto Rico's domestic violence law. In July 2022, Martin's representative denied any wrongdoing and expressed confidence that the truth will ultimately clear Martin's name.
Jwan Yosef and Ricky Martin Broadimage/Shutterstock
A motion was filed against Martin under Puerto Rico's Law 54, also known as the Domestic Abuse Prevention and Intervention Act. Soon after, Martin's brother, Eric Martin, accused him of having an inappropriate relationship with his 21-year-old nephew, Dennis Yadiel Sanchez.
Ricky's attorney vehemently refuted these "horrendous" allegations, stating in July 2022, "Regrettably, the person making these claims is grappling with severe mental health issues. Ricky Martin has never been, and would never be, involved in any form of sexual or romantic relationship with his nephew. Not only is this idea false, it is repugnant."
A hearing was scheduled to address the complaint, but eventually, the case was dropped. In July 2022, a statement posted on Ricky's Twitter account stated that the accuser confirmed his decision to dismiss the case without any external influence or pressure. The accuser also expressed satisfaction with his legal representation. The statement also mentioned that the accuser himself requested the dismissal of the case. According to the statement, this entire incident was merely the result of false allegations made by a troubled individual, with no evidence to support them. The statement concluded by expressing relief that their client has now achieved justice and can proceed with his life and career.