05-02-2025
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
Meet Diane Alexander, Lionel Richie's ex-wife, and mum to Miles and Sofia Richie
Meet Diane Alexander, Lionel Richie's ex-wife and mum to Sofia Richie. Fame and celebrity
Before the drama of his personal life took centre stage, Lionel Richie, 75, dominated the music charts with some of the most iconic hits of the 80s. From the timeless ballad 'Hello' to the infectious 'All Night Long', Richie's smooth vocals and catchy tunes earned him global fame. Lionel Richie and then-girlfriend Diane Alexander at the premiere of The Preacher's Wife in 1996, in New York City. Photo: Reuters
However, his love life has been just as headline-worthy as his chart-topping hits, and his split from his second wife, Diane Alexander, 57, was no exception. Their nearly decade-long marriage came with luxury, drama – and one of the priciest divorces in Hollywood history. From whirlwind romance to jaw-dropping spousal support requests, this high-profile break-up had everyone talking.
But who is Diane Alexander? Here's everything we know about Lionel Richie's ex-wife and their relationship. Diane Alexander has explored multiple creative avenues
Born in June 1967 in Los Angeles, Alexander has dabbled in multiple creative ventures. From modelling to fashion design, she wore many hats, even landing acting gigs in films like Laker Girls (1990) and Forget Paris (1995). One of her most notable early moments in the spotlight, however, was her appearance in Richie's 1986 hit music video for 'Dancing on the Ceiling'. Their relationship started while Richie was still married Brenda Harvey and Lionel Richie at the Share Boomtown Party in 1984, in Westwood, California.
The pair met during the peak of Richie's superstardom. According to The Mirror, rumours swirled that he and Alexander had started dating while he was still married to his first wife, Brenda Harvey. In a now-infamous moment in 1988, Brenda reportedly found the pair together at a Beverly Hills hotel. The story goes that she posed as 'room service' to catch the pair in flagrante. When did Lionel Richie and Diane Alexander get married? Lionel Richie and his children Sofia Richie and Miles Brockman Richie. Photo: @lionelrichie/Instagram Despite the drama, the couple's relationship continued. After finalising his divorce from Harvey in 1993, Richie wed Alexander in 1995. During their marriage, they welcomed two children: Miles Brockman Richie in 1994 and Sofia Richie in 1998.
