April Jones first appeared on our screens in 2014, starring on Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood with her then-boyfriend, Omarion. Fast forward to now, April and the B2K singer have gone their separate ways, and rumor has it that April is getting cozy with actor Taye Diggs. They set the internet buzzing with dating rumors back in December 2021, though neither has officially confirmed their relationship.
At first glance, these two might seem like an odd match. With a 15-year age gap and seemingly different types, it’s surprising to learn they’re even in the same social circles. But if you dig a little deeper, you might find that they actually make a pretty good pair.
Childhood Trauma
Taye and April, despite growing up in different eras, shared similar experiences of racial and identity struggles. In a 2014 interview with Vlad TV, April talked about the difficulties she faced as a mixed-race child. Born to a Chinese, Taiwanese, and Mongolian mother and a Black father, she spent her early years with her paternal grandmother in the projects outside of Cincinnati. “I was the only mixed girl. I was the only Black girl with nice hair and lighter skin. They tried to cut my hair. They tried to fight me,” April recounted.
Years later, April still faced challenges regarding her identity. During a March 2021 Instagram Live session, she explained that other women often questioned her Blackness because of the attention she received from certain men. “People don’t want me to be Black because they’re mad that certain people talk to me. They create this scenario that I’m exotic because guys shouldn’t like me. But they do like me, sweetheart. And the reason they don’t like you is because you’re negative, nasty, and dumb,” she said.
Taye’s story was similar. Growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood, he was teased by white children for his dark skin. In high school, he faced colorism from light-skinned Black students. It wasn’t until he saw supermodel Tyson Beckford rise to fame that Taye began to appreciate his own complexion, as he shared with the My Brown Baby website.
Both Taye and April’s stories highlight the enduring impact of childhood trauma and the journey towards self-acceptance.
April and Taye: A Surprising Love Story Rooted in Shared Experiences
How do similar childhood experiences impact April and Taye’s alleged relationship? Psychologist Amenpreet Nonpal explained to iDiva.com that couples often bond over shared traumas. The real test will be whether they can find more common ground to keep their relationship strong.
After Omarion announced their breakup in July 2016, April took some time to heal before dating again. She made headlines by twerking at The Game’s house party and was linked to Omarion’s B2K bandmate, Lil Fizz, and Dr. Dre. During a July 2019 Instagram rant, April spoke about the attention she was getting from various men:
“The Game, okay. You know what happened to The Game? He’s right here. He texted me today, ‘Happy Mother’s Day.’ The Game texts me all the time. I just love him. Nate Robinson texts me. He loves me. He respects me. Drew (Lil Fizz), I love you. Happy Mother’s Day. I respect you.”
So, with many men, from musicians to athletes, showing interest in her, why would she settle for someone like Taye? While he’s not unattractive, Taye initially didn’t seem like her type based on her dating history. But since Taye joined TikTok in December 2021, people, including April, have seen a different side of him. His quirky dance routines and off-key singing have earned millions of views and brought joy to many. His sense of humor seems to have won April over as well. In an Instagram post with a photo of them on the red carpet, April wrote, “I laugh my ass off with you. You’re so effing dope.” Their chemistry is clear in the comical skits they’ve done together, making their connection both undeniable and adorable.
Taye and Idina
Towards the end of his decade-long marriage to actress and singer Idina Menzel, Taye Diggs was reportedly seen getting close with various blondes and brunettes at Hollywood hotspots, according to Star Magazine. Not long after, the news broke that their marriage was over. Perhaps Taye and Idina were already separated during these alleged encounters, but if the rumors are true, it’s doubtful April Jones would judge him for his past. In a September 2014 interview with Vlad TV, April admitted she was fine with Omarion seeing other women when they first started dating, allowing him time to settle down before they became serious. April seems to be a laid-back partner, so if Taye wanted to explore his options while getting to know her, she might just turn a blind eye.
Coparenting
April has accused Omarion of not being actively involved in their children’s lives and has spoken about her struggles as a single parent. The two have had ongoing legal battles regarding their children, and April hasn’t held back from criticizing Omarion publicly, such as when she told Madame Noire they joined Love & Hip Hop to dispel rumors about his sexuality. In contrast, Taye and his ex-wife have maintained a peaceful co-parenting relationship. Taye told People Magazine, “We were friends to start out with, but especially when you have a kid in the mix, there’s no time for any negativity.” Since being with Taye, April seems less concerned with Omarion’s actions, suggesting that Taye’s positive influence and co-parenting experience might be benefiting her in the long run.
Taye Diggs and April Jones: A Love Story Breaking Stereotypes
Taye Diggs has often been criticized for his perceived preference for dating white women and his comments about feeling resentment towards Black women due to their attitudes towards him. This stance has sparked controversy and rubbed many people the wrong way. However, it seems that his alleged preference is currently on hold as he showers April Jones with quirky tokens of affection.
“Do you like this spectacular ocean view? Do you like this spectacular
Individually, Taye and April have faced backlash for their behavior and outspoken nature. But as a couple, they are winning people over with the joy they bring into each other’s lives. Their official red carpet debut in February 2022 showcased a radiant Taye, visibly happier than ever with April by his side. In an industry rife with tales of struggle love, Taye and April’s romance is a refreshing sight. It’s starting to look like their relationship might have the potential to go the distance. Don’t you agree?