An open marriage, as Nene clarified, is fundamentally a consensually non-monogamous arrangement where both partners agree to the possibility of engaging in sexual and/or romantic relationships with individuals outside of their primary partnership. In such a setup, the couple remains committed to each other as their central relationship but permits varying degrees of flexibility in forming connections with others.
The precise dynamics of an open marriage can differ significantly and are generally determined through open and explicit communication, establishing mutual agreements between the individuals involved.
NeNe Leakes, the former star of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” who tragically lost her husband Gregg Leakes two years ago, opened up on her YouTube series, “Pillow Talk with Nene,” and became emotional when discussing the idea of being in a relationship with someone even if there wasn’t a deep romantic love connection.
She shared her thoughts, saying, “Maybe I should consider marriage, whether I’m 100% happy with the person or not.” The 55-year-old expressed, “Perhaps I should marry just to have a life partner, someone who will be there for me through thick and thin.”
She acknowledged that this person might not be a perfect match for her, but emphasized the value of having someone there for support. She elaborated, “Maybe we can establish an agreement where this person will be there for me, and I will reciprocate during difficult or medical times.”
NeNe also suggested that certain terms could be negotiated, such as allowing both individuals to have relationships with others outside the partnership. She explained, “In doing so, you have to be aware that the person may be involved with others emotionally and romantically, but they are committed to you during challenging periods.”
Despite her desire for companionship, the Bravo alum ultimately concluded that an open relationship wasn’t aligned with her true self. She expressed, “I considered it, but I know it’s not who I am as a person. I genuinely want to be with someone who truly loves me and is wholeheartedly there for me.”
NeNe’s emotional reflection followed a visit to the doctor when she was faced with the dilemma of choosing an emergency contact. Overwhelmed by the situation, she shared, “I got unexpectedly emotional in the doctor’s office. In the past, I always had my husband listed as my emergency contact.” Gregg passed away in September 2021 at the age of 66 due to colon cancer.
NeNe and Gregg initially married in 1997 but divorced in 2011. They later reconciled and remarried in 2013. The couple has a 24-year-old son named Brentt.