**Kimora Lee Opens Up in New Lifetime Documentary: ‘On Her Own’**
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Kimora Lee, the renowned model and founder of Baby Phat, is set to share her personal journey in an emotionally charged Lifetime documentary titled *Kimora Lee: On Her Own*, which is set to premiere on 20th September. At 51 years of age, Lee has made the bold decision to reclaim her identity, shedding the surname Simmons that she held for years as the former wife of fashion and music mogul Russell Simmons.
Lee, who was married to Simmons from 1998 to 2009, is the mother of two daughters, Ming Lee Simmons and Aoki Simmons. The documentary promises to delve into Lee’s life, both the highs and lows, as she reflects on her career and personal experiences over the years. The trailer offers a glimpse into her past, featuring footage of her dynamic modelling career in the 1990s and her influential role in redefining beauty standards in the fashion industry as one of Karl Lagerfeld’s muses at Chanel.
As she narrates her story, Lee acknowledges the glamour that accompanied her early success, stating, “Here’s the thing about my life… It was glamorous. I was the youngest model in the history of Chanel.” However, she also candidly admits the darker aspects of fame, saying, “I’ve seen the monsters.” This juxtaposition highlights the pressures and challenges that can come with a high-profile career.
Kimora Lee’s relationship with Russell Simmons saw them rise to prominence together, particularly through the successful launch of Baby Phat, which became a multi-million-pound brand. Despite their achievements, the couple faced significant turmoil, eventually separating in 2006 and finalising their divorce three years later. Their split has since been marred by drama, including legal disputes and allegations against Simmons related to sexual misconduct.
In the documentary, Lee expresses the emotional toll these experiences have taken on her life. In one poignant moment captured in the trailer, she is seen crying while imploring, “I’m just asking that you leave us alone.” This raw honesty marks a departure from her typically polished public persona, revealing the vulnerabilities she has faced behind the scenes.
Over the years, Lee has continued to navigate her personal life following her divorce from Simmons. She welcomed a son, Kenzo, with actor Djimon Hounsou in 2009. Subsequently, she entered into a marriage with Tim Leissner, a former Goldman Sachs banker, with whom she shares a son, Wolfe, born in 2015. In addition, Lee is also the parent to an adopted son, Gary. However, her latest chapter has not been without complications; the couple filed for divorce this year, and Leissner is currently serving a federal prison sentence for financial fraud.
*Kimora Lee: On Her Own* aims to explore the multifaceted nature of Lee’s life, including the challenges she has faced in both her professional and personal spheres. The documentary not only seeks to shed light on her triumphs but also reflects on her resilience in the face of adversity. The trailer concludes on an empowering note, with Lee stating, “When life gives you coal, press it into a diamond,” a testament to her indomitable spirit.
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation builds around what promises to be a compelling narrative of healing and self-discovery. Audiences will finally have a chance to see the fuller picture of Kimora Lee’s life and the strength she embodies. The documentary is a chance for her to tell her story in her own words, as she reconnects with her identity while inspiring others on similar journeys.
*Kimora Lee: On Her Own* is scheduled to air on Sunday, 20th September at 8 p.m. ET, and promises to be an insightful portrayal of a woman at the intersection of fame, family, and self-identity.