“I was tired of walking on eggshells” – Lil Jon reveals why his 18-year marriage ended

American rapper and music producer Lil Jon has opened up about the reasons behind the end of his 18-year marriage to his ex-wife, Nicole Smith, citing their contrasting personalities and frequent disagreements.

Speaking during an appearance on the Angie Martinez IRL podcast on Wednesday, November 4, the musician said he eventually became tired of feeling he had to be careful about what he said or did around his former wife.

He described himself as an extreme optimist and Smith as an extreme pessimist, saying their different outlooks on life often led to disagreements.

Lil Jon added that his frequent tours kept them apart for long periods and may have prolonged the marriage, saying it could have ended much earlier if he had been home every day.

He also admitted that he was angry during their separation and initially struggled to understand Smith's perspective. However, he said he eventually recognised the need to change his own mindset.

Lil Jon married Smith in 2004, after welcoming their son, Nathan, in 1998. Nathan passed away in February following an accidental drowning.

In November 2024, the 55-year-old musician welcomed a daughter, Nahara, with his current partner, television personality Jamila.