Nicki Minaj’s latest video has left fans deeply concerned amid swirling divorce rumors. The rapper, known for her energetic persona, appeared unusually subdued in a recent Instagram Story, where she spoke about the challenges of motherhood. Wearing a white robe and a pink satin bonnet, Minaj seemed drowsy as she recounted the birth of her son, affectionately known as “Papa Bear,” in September 2020.
“And then one day, they’re yelling ‘push’ and you’re in pain,” the 41-year-old said softly. “Then one day, he comes out a beautiful baby boy. To God be the glory,” she whispered into the camera. She then offered words of encouragement to fellow mothers, saying, “Congratulations to every mama out there. You’re doing a great job. In case no one’s told you that, you’re doing a great job.”
The video came just a day after Minaj, whose real name is Onika Tanya Maraj, posted a cryptic tweet that read, “Yes Single …,” leading fans to speculate whether she was hinting at new music or a potential split from her husband, Kenneth Petty.
Fans quickly took to social media to express their concern and support for the rapper. “I just woke up and seen Nicki’s Insta story, that made me tear up @NICKIMINAJ I hope you okay sending you love and prayers and hugs,” tweeted one user. Another added, “I honestly hope she’s okay. #WeLoveYouNicki.”
The hashtag #WeLoveYouNicki began trending as fans rallied around her. “Whatever you’re going through, the Barbz are here for you,” wrote one fan. “We’ve seen you through the good and bad times and we’ll keep holding you down, you’ll win again and again.”
Another fan shared photos of Minaj and her son, writing, “This woman is the strongest human I know. She’s been the highest selling female rapper for 2 decades. She’s on a world tour with a sold-out show every night, but most of all she’s a mother. God please give Nicki the strength to get through these hard times.”
The video and tweet have left fans speculating about the state of Minaj’s marriage. Minaj and Petty tied the knot in October 2019, and their relationship has faced scrutiny due to Petty’s legal issues. He was convicted of attempted rape in the first degree in April 1995 and is a registered sex offender. In September 2023, he was placed on house arrest after threatening Offset, the husband of Minaj’s rival, Cardi B.
Minaj has previously opened up about the challenges she and Petty faced after the birth of their son, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I’m not going to lie, things got testy between us,” she told Vogue in a December 2023 cover story. “Because of our history, I think we knew we’d get past it. But there’s no such thing as confidence in parenthood.”
She added, “I kind of wish that someone had told me — although I’m sure I wouldn’t have been able to understand it — that there’s a level of anxiety, and you think it’s going to go away, but in fact it gets scarier.”
Despite the challenges, Minaj is currently on the second leg of her “Pink Friday 2” world tour, with a concert scheduled in Copenhagen, Denmark. However, her fatigued appearance in the video has fans worried about her well-being.
“Ummm that Nicki Minaj video was very worrying and I hope she’s able to get out of whatever situation she’s in safely,” tweeted one concerned fan. Another wrote, “I’m so worried about Nicki I pray she’s doing ok and finds the strength to guide her through whatever it is she’s going through right now. She’ll forever have my support and love.”
As fans continue to speculate about the meaning behind Minaj’s cryptic tweet and her emotional video, one thing is clear: the Barbz are standing by her side, offering their unwavering support during this uncertain time.
