Tracee Ellis Ross On Dating & Life: What She Shared On IMO Podcast
Is Tracee Ellis Ross rewriting the rules of romance? The actress and entrepreneur, at 52, is making headlines by challenging conventional dating norms and embracing a life of her own design.
The actress, known for her iconic role as Joan Carol Clayton in the long-running sitcom "Girlfriends," is currently single, as confirmed by multiple sources. Ross has always been open about her views on relationships and personal fulfillment, but recently, she's offered a more intimate look into her current approach to dating and life. She made waves during an episode of the "IMO" podcast hosted by Michelle Obama and her brother, Craig Robinson, where she candidly discussed her dating preferences, the societal pressures faced by single women, and her personal reflections on not having children.
On April 16, 2025, the world took notice, as the actress opened up about her dating life during the podcast. During the episode, Ross admitted her penchant for dating younger men, sparking conversations and interest across social media platforms. "Often I date younger men," Ross revealed, offering a glimpse into her approach to dating.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tracee Joy Silberstein |
| Date of Birth | October 29, 1972 |
| Age (as of April 2025) | 52 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actress, Producer, Director, Entrepreneur |
| Known For | "Girlfriends," "Black-ish," "Pattern Beauty" |
| Current Relationship Status | Single |
| Key Achievements | NAACP Image Award Winner, Golden Globe Award Winner, Peabody Award Winner |
| Education | Brown University |
| Business Ventures | Founder of Pattern Beauty |
| Notable Relationships | Rumors of a past relationship with Nas. |
| Social Media | Tracee Ellis Ross on Instagram |
The timing of these revelations has been particularly poignant. In the same week, on April 18, 2025, Desiree Anello's article brought more focus on Ross. The article highlights the actress's recent public statements and delves into the challenges and joys of navigating love and life in one's 50s. The star also reflected on the grief of not having a family of her own. In the podcast, she spoke about the things that she "thought would be and that are not."
The actress mentioned that she often finds herself drawn to younger men, offering insights into her dating life and why she prefers the dynamics with younger partners. While speaking with Michelle Obama and her brother, Tracee Ellis Ross didnt shy away from expressing the raw emotions about not having her own family. This included exploring the societal expectations placed on women, particularly regarding marriage and motherhood, and how she has navigated those expectations.
Ross, who attended the 2025 WWD Style Awards at the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills on January 3, 2025, appears to be embracing a new chapter. She also recently sat down with Kevin Hart on Peacock's "Hart to Heart," continuing to publicly discuss her views on dating and relationships. Ross has repeatedly stated that she is in a fulfilling relationship with herself, but continues to explore the possibilities of new romantic connections, with the actor recently sharing her thoughts on the dynamics of dating in her 50s.
Adding another layer to the celebrity dating scene, rumors have swirled about a past relationship between Tracee Ellis Ross and the rapper Nas, a topic that continues to interest fans. Nas, whose full name is Nasir Jones, is a 51-year-old American rapper. While the exact nature of their relationship has been subject to speculation, there have been reports and sightings that sparked public curiosity. There is photo evidence showing them backstage together back in December 2019. This detail adds another layer of complexity to the public's understanding of Ross's romantic history.
Ross's openness about her personal journey marks a significant shift in public discourse, encouraging honest conversations about women, aging, and the choices they make. Her decision to address these topics publicly, particularly on a platform like Michelle Obama's podcast, signifies a commitment to authenticity and vulnerability, traits that resonate deeply with audiences.
Tracee Ellis Ross has come a long way since her early days, and the impact of her childhood travels with her mother, Diana Ross, helped shape her views on wellness. The actor's evolution from a rising star to a cultural icon is a testament to her enduring appeal.
Her reflections on grief over not marrying or having kids, and her preference for dating younger men, offer a fascinating look into her personal philosophy. She's not just turning the tables on time; she's redefining it.
Interestingly, during her time on the show "Girlfriends," Tracee's character was inspired by Kenya Barris's wife, Dr. Rania "Rainbow" Barris. The series resonated with many viewers for its portrayal of women navigating life, love, and careers. The public will undoubtedly be watching to see how this new chapter unfolds.
The latest episode of the "IMO" podcast conversation felt like scrolling through your group chat, offering an authentic peek into Rosss world. She is also the founder of "Pattern Beauty," which speaks to her vision for wellness and beauty. And now, in this new era, Tracee Ellis Ross is still the ultimate girlfriend, navigating life with courage, honesty, and an unwavering commitment to herself.
The world continues to watch as Tracee Ellis Ross paves her way and as the actress herself said, she grieves for the things that she thought would be and that are not.
