Diana Ross’s daughter Tracee Ellis Ross has never been content to just exist in her legendary mother’s shadow. Through grit, charm, and standout talent – especially her iconic turn as Dr. Rainbow Johnson on “Black-ish” – Tracee has become a star in her own right, adored by critics and fans alike. Anyone who’s watched her onscreen or listened to her spirited interviews knows she’s much more than Motown royalty by association. Tracee’s blend of humor, warmth, and self-possessed confidence is uniquely her own.
Despite her fame, Tracee keeps her personal life close to the vest. She’s vocal about self-love and the joy she finds in living solo, but you’ll rarely catch her dishing much on her love life. Still, Hollywood being Hollywood, a few of her past relationships have made their way into public conversation.
The Men in Tracee’s Life
One of her more talked-about romances was with music exec Bu Thiam – yes, Akon’s brother. They dated from about 2011 to 2013, making a handful of red carpet appearances together before moving on quietly. No big break-up drama or tell-all interviews, which is just how Tracee seems to prefer it.
Before that, she had a brief connection with former NBA player Chris Webber around 2007. The two were spotted out on the town a handful of times – paparazzi snapped a few cozy dinner shots – but the whole thing fizzled out as quietly as it began.
There have also been whispers about Tracee and actor Henry Simmons, with reports of them bonding over their craft and catching up at industry events. And let’s not forget comedian DeRay Davis, who described their relationship as a close friendship, though rumors of romance have circulated for years.
In a 2018 Glamour interview, Tracee summed up her approach to love perfectly: “I’m a romantic at heart, but I don’t need to be defined by whether I have a partner.” That relaxed, self-assured attitude colors how she navigates everything – including relationships. Early on, she kept her dating life pretty much off the grid. As she found her footing in Hollywood, she seemed to connect with people who understood the unique pressures of her world – and who respected her desire for privacy.
Of course, tabloids love to speculate. At various points, Tracee’s been “linked” by gossip sites to Kanye West, Michael B. Jordan, and Common – but there’s never been anything substantial there, just the usual rumor mill churn.
As far as anyone knows, Tracee is single these days, pouring her energy into an ever-evolving career spanning acting, producing, fashion, and her successful haircare brand, Pattern Beauty. Now 50, she’s spoken candidly about finding happiness and fulfillment on her own terms.
“I’ve learned to find wholeness on my own,” Tracee shared in an interview. “If someone comes along and wants to join me in that space, wonderful. But I’m not waiting for someone to complete me.”
Past Relationships
Bu Thiam
Chris Webber
DeRay Davis
Henry Simmons
Nas
Rather than dwelling on former flames, Tracee seems grateful for what each relationship taught her. She’s even managed to stay on good terms with some exes – a testament to her emotional intelligence and grounded attitude. Ultimately, while fans might be curious about who she’s dating, it’s clear Tracee Ellis Ross is most interested in living authentically, loving deeply, and making space for whatever comes next.