Shantel Jackson Says She Broke Up With Nelly To 'Rip That Band-Aid Off' Because 'People Grow Apart'
Shantel Jackson recently went viral for claims she made regarding her relationship with Nelly.
Jackson seemed level-headed about their separation when she told social media that she had no "ill-will" and sometimes people "grow apart."
During an Instagram Live session, the 39-year-old admitted that sometimes people just don't work out. She claimed that she was the one who left the relationship despite being with the St. Louis native for nearly seven years.
@pressplaymediacompany #pressplay️: #ShantelJackson spoke on her breakup with #Nelly ♬ original sound - Press Play Media Company
"I left because I wanted space to see, maybe... will the space bring us back together? Or do I need this space because I need to rip off that band-aid," Jackson explained. "Initially I wanted the space, or the break to rip that band-aid off."
She continued: "Just sometimes people don't work out. People grow apart. Sometimes one person might wanna be in the situation and the other person is like...'This isn't working.' It happens, you know?"
Clips of her comments were posted on TikTok where viewers left their mixed opinions in the comment section. "She's hurting because he's happier where he is now and that's okay," one TikTok user responded. "Girl...at this point why?" a second inquired. "She knew that man still loved Ashanti," a third penned, referencing his new relationship.
Nelly, real name Cornell Iral Haynes Jr., has been all smiles since his reconciliation with ex-girlfriend Ashanti, 43. After a long-term on-and-off relationship, the two parted ways for good in 2013.
More than a decade later, the two have rekindled their flame and are now expecting their first baby together.
"I think it surprised both of us though. It wasn't anything that I don't think was planned," Nelly, 49, stated per 'Entertainment Tonight' about their reconciliation. A source close to 'ET' also confirmed the two are "very happy" and are "enjoying their time together."
The pair secretly tied the knot in December 2023, but their nuptials wasn't annouced until April, per 'Essence.'
