Full Breakdown
Kimora Lee Simmons Reflects on Daughter's Relationship with Restaurateur Vittorio Assaf
12/8/2025, 10:17:09 PM
Overview of the Relationship
In a recent episode of the "Not Skinny But Not Fat" podcast, Kimora Lee Simmons discussed her feelings regarding her daughter Aoki Lee Simmons' brief relationship with 65-year-old restaurateur Vittorio Assaf in April 2024. Aoki, then 21, met Assaf while vacationing in St. Barths, a location familiar to the Simmons family. The relationship garnered significant media attention, prompting Kimora to share her perspective on the age difference and the dynamics involved.
Kimora's Concerns
Kimora expressed her initial shock upon discovering the relationship, stating, “I found out when the world found out.” She described her reaction as one of concern, noting that she felt the age gap was "predatorial." Despite her apprehensions, Kimora emphasized her desire to allow her daughter to make her own choices, saying, “I let my kids make their own mistakes.” She acknowledged the challenges of navigating personal relationships in the public eye, highlighting the rapid escalation of the situation.
Insights on Age Gap Relationships
During the podcast, Kimora reflected on her own experiences with relationships that involved significant age differences. She articulated her belief that such dynamics can be problematic, stating, “I do think it’s predatorial and kinda crazy.” This sentiment underscores her protective instincts as a mother, particularly given her own past experiences.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the media frenzy surrounding Aoki's relationship with Assaf, a source close to the Simmons family clarified that the relationship was short-lived, asserting, “Not only is it 'over', it was never a thing.” This statement suggests that the relationship may have been more of a fleeting encounter rather than a serious commitment.
Criticism & Opposition
While Kimora's concerns reflect a protective maternal instinct, some may argue that her views on age gap relationships could be seen as overly cautious. Critics might contend that adult individuals, regardless of age, should have the autonomy to engage in consensual relationships without parental interference. This perspective highlights the ongoing debate about the societal perceptions of age differences in romantic partnerships.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was a lot. But I do think in general, of those kinds of things, I feel like and having gone through not exactly the same but similar…that big age gap relationship, let’s just call it that. I do think it’s predatorial. We said all of that to get to what Kimora thinks about it. I think that’s predatorial and kinda crazy.” — Kimora Lee Simmons
- “’ I found out when the world found out," admits the mom of five.” — Kimora Lee Simmons
- “I let my kids make their own mistakes, like I said.” — Kimora Lee Simmons
Conclusion
The brief relationship between Aoki Lee Simmons and Vittorio Assaf has prompted a broader discussion about age differences in romantic relationships and the challenges of parenting in the public eye. Kimora Lee Simmons' reflections reveal her protective nature and the complexities of allowing children to navigate their personal lives amidst public scrutiny.
