Greetings everyone, welcome. There’s quite the stir brewing involving Alicia Keys, Swizz Beatz, and Jonna Sebastian, the mother of Swizz’s child. To bring everyone up to speed on Jonna’s backstory, she’s a UK-based singer who had an affair with Swizz while he was still married to his first wife, Mashanda. In an interview with Madame Noir, Jonna expressed her unawareness of Swizz’s marital status, stating, “I was not aware of him being married at the time. I thought he was single like myself, and he acted like a single man.” She only learned of his marriage after it was too late. Upon discovering her pregnancy after Swizz returned to the US, Jonna faced immigration issues and underwent detention, all while bearing their daughter, Nicole, alone. Despite knowing Swizz was the father, she chose not to involve him due to the potential scandal it could cause. Mashanda eventually learned of Jonna and Nicole, yet refrained from criticizing Jonna, understanding she was unaware of Swizz’s marriage during their affair.
Swizz Beatz, as widely known, was involved in another highly publicized affair, this time with the singer Alicia Keys. However, the stark contrast between Alicia and Gianna lies in the fact that Alicia was aware of Swizz’s marital status when their relationship began. Thus, this adds another layer to the already messy backstory of this situation. Regrettably, the drama continues as Gianna finds herself in conflict with both Alicia and Swizz Beatz, publicly addressing the situation on social media.
Initially, she subtly directed messages towards Alicia by sharing an article from Oprah.com titled ’12 things a stepmother should never say.’ Alongside it, she commented, “Interestingly found this on Oprah’s website. This is the rule in my family. I am the sole mother to my child, responsible for her upbringing, providing her life, British citizenship, education, and everything else. Not only biologically, but fundamentally, I am her mother. This bond is eternal. I am solely responsible for nurturing her, guiding her through challenges, shaping her into a compassionate individual, and teaching her life’s lessons. No other individual will assume a maternal role, be it in English, Arabic, or any other language. I will not allow anyone to sway her with material possessions like iPhones. She will be raised with empathy, adhering to righteous principles. My commitment to her knows no bounds. Nicole has never referred to another man as ‘dad’ or any equivalent. No one has attempted to usurp her real father’s role or make decisions on his behalf. My rights and position demand equal respect. In the eyes of God, material wealth holds no value; it’s the purity of the soul that counts.”
In response to someone in the comments mentioning Alicia, she affirmed, indicating that the post indeed pertained to Alicia overstepping her boundaries as a stepparent. Frustrated, Gianna opted to confront Alicia publicly. She took to Instagram with a lengthy post, beginning, “Now, brace yourselves, this is quite a lengthy read, but here it goes. ‘Tis the season for some festive revelations. Here’s her statement: ‘Typically, I utilize my social media platforms to share insights, inspiration, music, and updates on my new musical book. Drama isn’t my cup of tea, yet I’ve reached my limit. Firstly, let me clarify that Nicole has been with me in the UK since birth, and I’ve been her primary caregiver throughout. I facilitated her British citizenship, navigating through our refugee status. The step-parent is not involved in raising my child.”
Actually, there have been instances in the past where she interfered, and I’ve kept quiet about it. This step-parent obtained an iPhone X in the US, which she manages for my daughter Nicole. She set up an Apple ID linked to her own under family sharing, granting herself permission to make Apple Store purchases on behalf of my child, all without my consent. Despite me being Nicole’s biological and sole mother, Apple’s policy clearly states that a minor’s Apple ID requires parental consent, usually within the parent’s family sharing arrangement. App and Apple Store purchases necessitate parental approval. Mobile phone companies mandate parental consent to furnish phones to minors, with laws safeguarding children’s privacy. Nowhere is it stipulated to “Create an Apple ID for your stepchild.” Regardless of terminology, a step-parent lacks the legal authority to grant consent, sign documents, or agree online on behalf of the child without consulting the parent. Even schools mandate parental consent for a child to use computers during lessons, which hasn’t been the case here. My permission has never been sought. Furthermore, this step-parent ignores calls and emails and recently feigned ignorance about the caller, despite having my number saved under my name in her phone. Alicia, we need to talk about this. How can you make decisions for Jhana’s child when you don’t even have a relationship with Jonna? Are you saying you don’t communicate with her? It’s as if you’re disregarding her existence, which is deeply concerning to me. I believe Swiss should facilitate better communication between the mothers since they are both raising siblings. Now, back to what Jonna was saying…
Moreover, this stepparent has defied my recent decision to temporarily restrict Nicole’s access to certain social media platforms like TikTok for disciplinary reasons. I implemented this measure due to its negative impact on her studies and to foster a deeper engagement with literature and real-life experiences, steering away from a focus solely on material possessions and social media validation. Additionally, it was a precautionary measure to safeguard vulnerable children from online risks.
Upon Nicole’s arrival in the US, I discovered that her TikTok account had been reinstated without my consent. This action not only constitutes an attempt to sway my child’s allegiance with material incentives such as an iPhone and access to social media via an Apple ID but also undermines my authority as a parent, potentially causing confusion for Nicole. The lack of communication from the stepparent regarding Nicole’s activities exacerbates the situation.
For clarification, my concern is not centered on providing Nicole with a superior or grander gift. I had intended to gift her an iPhone 11, which I have already purchased. Rather, it is about the insidious attempt to win my child’s favor by feigning compliance while disregarding my parental directives. My aspiration is for Nicole to be raised as an intellectually curious, empathetic individual who contributes positively to society. I am vigilant about the perils of social media, recognizing its potential to both inspire and challenge a child’s mental well-being, particularly regarding self-esteem.
While I had successfully managed Nicole’s exposure to social media for an extended period, her return from the recent trip revealed an unsettling fixation on social media metrics, material possessions, and outward appearances. Through candid discussions with the stepparent, I am deeply troubled by the influence exerted on my child. Their actions not only demonstrate a lack of respect for my role as a parent but also disregard legal boundaries in both the UK and the US, jeopardizing the foundation of Nicole’s upbringing that I have diligently cultivated.
My privacy has been violated. Nicole accessed the iCloud account created by her step-parent in the US using the phone and iPad I purchased in the UK under my name. She took photos and videos of me without my consent. Not only did this expose my private information to her step-parent, but it also compromised the locations of other devices here, including mine.
Moreover, her step-parent began insisting that Nicole call her “Yumi,” meaning mother in Arabic, despite my repeated objections over the years. I’ve made my stance clear to her family members, emphasizing that I prefer to be called by my name, Jonna. Even Nicole’s brothers address me accordingly, and other mothers are referred to by their names. This discrepancy highlights the step-parent’s disregard for women’s equality and respect for motherhood.
Furthermore, the step-parent avoids direct communication, instead relying on family members to convey grievances, a tactic I find cowardly and manipulative.
I’m sharing this to expose the reality behind the facade of a blended family, which is being used for public image while disrespecting another woman and motherhood. In this family dynamic, dissenting voices are silenced, and there’s pressure to conform to the step-parent’s wishes. I refuse to participate in blended family activities that ignore my concerns and autonomy. My focus remains on my personal life and ensuring that my rights as a mother are respected. This is a matter of principle, and anyone who truly values motherhood will understand its significance.
Swizz Beatz did reply to Jonna, stating, ‘Firstly, Nicole doesn’t have her own phone. Secondly, my phone isn’t for her use, so she should contact you directly instead of searching for her through my phone. Thirdly, no one compelled Nicole to address anyone in particular. She chose to call her Umi or Omi or Youmi, however it’s pronounced. I won’t pressure any of my kids into doing things they don’t want to do, plain and simple. Fourthly, our recent phone conversation didn’t involve any of these issues you’re bringing up now. It was all cordial and pleasant. You have my number; if there’s an issue, call me directly. Cut it out. Thank you all.’ So, why do you consistently mix these matters with your music achievements in your posts, almost as if it’s a contest? Just curious for a friend.
It sounds like there’s some tension between Jonna and Swiss regarding music and communication. Jonna seems frustrated that Swiss is accusing her of copying and competing, while Swiss is urging Jonna to communicate directly rather than through texts. Jonna feels like Swiss doesn’t listen and shuts her down during their conversations. It seems like there’s a need for open communication and understanding from both parties to resolve the issues they’re facing.
So, Jonna decided to spill the beans because she’s fed up with Swiss shutting her out. Despite numerous attempts to discuss things with him, he remains dismissive. So, she attempted to reach out to Alicia instead, but Alicia is avoiding her calls and messages. It’s frustrating that Swiss isn’t facilitating better communication between the mothers. If Swiss won’t step up, Alicia should take the initiative to connect with Jonna. Jonna doesn’t know Alicia well and is fiercely protective of her daughter, especially since she’s the only girl in the family. Naturally, she’s curious about the kind of person Alicia is and the influence she might have on her daughter. It’s understandable that Jonna feels this way. While I don’t necessarily agree with her decision to air all of this on social media, I empathize with her frustration. Apparently, some people, including Swiss’s oldest son’s mother, support Jonna’s decision. She encouraged speaking one’s truth, as it can liberate both oneself and others, emphasizing the importance of respect. Mashanda herself has had issues with Alicia crossing boundaries in the past. She mentioned in an interview with Sister to Sister magazine that Alicia was fully aware of her existence. Despite Mashanda’s direct requests to stop certain behaviors, Alicia disregarded her, including when Mashanda asked her not to encourage her son to call her “Umi” or “Omi,” which means “mommy” in Arabic.
“Yeah, I was like, ‘No way.’ So, Alicia definitely has a track record of overstepping as a stepmother. Mashanda eventually warmed up after building a relationship with Alicia, but Jonna hasn’t had that chance yet. She barely knows Alicia, so it’s understandable she’s feeling uneasy about Alicia trying to set rules for her daughter. Jonna probably sees how much influence Alicia has on her daughter and feels threatened because Alicia’s seen as the cool, lenient step-parent. Kids often lean more towards the step-parent in these situations, which might be why Jonna feels a bit uneasy. I don’t think she’s bitter, just genuinely concerned about Alicia’s boundary-crossing. Also, she’s probably not thrilled with how Alicia seems to be put on a pedestal in the family hierarchy just because she’s the wife. Swiss elevates her and defends her even if it means disregarding the other mothers. It’s a tough dynamic. For things to work out between Jonna, Swiss, and Alicia, they really need to sit down and figure out how to co-parent effectively. Anyway, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this video. Drop a like, comment, and subscribe, and don’t forget to share if you found it insightful. Thanks for watching, and see you next time!”