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Bryan Tanaka: Mariah Carey’s Boyfriend Opens Up About Controversial Breakup

BY Nii Ogbamey Tetteh December 27, 2023 12:48 PM EDT
Mariah Carey and Bryan Tanaka
Mariah Carey and Bryan Tanaka Photo source: @bryantanaka

Bryan Tanaka, boyfriend of American R&B singer Mariah Carey, has broken his silence over the controversial breakup with the singer after seven years of being together.

The iconic singer and Tanaka were reported to have parted ways after seven years, but both parties remained tight-lipped about the news until now.

On Tuesday, December 26, the 40-year-old backup dancer released a long message on social media announcing the breakup, which he claims was a “mutual” decision.

Bryan Tanaka, in the post, said he had mixed emotions about going public about the breakup and felt he had to give an official statement on the topic.

“Dear friends and fans, with mixed emotions, I share this personal update regarding my amicable separation from Mariah Carey after seven extraordinary years together,” Tanaka posted.

“Our decision to embark on different paths is mutual, and as we navigate these separate journeys, we do so with profound respect and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the invaluable time we’ve shared. The memories we’ve created and the artistic collaborations are etched in my heart forever.”

“Mariah’s dedication to her family and her commitment to her craft have inspired us during our journey,” Tanaka continued in his statement. “I want to express my love and appreciation for Mariah and her incredible children, whose warmth and kindness have enriched my life in ways words cannot capture.”

“During this sensitive time, I kindly ask for your understanding, privacy and respect. The outpouring of love and support from fans has been a beacon of strength, and I am extremely grateful for the encouragement that continues to uplift me. I eagerly anticipate continuing my journey, knowing my passion for inspiration, dance, and the creative arts will resonate in the unfolding chapters,” Tanaka added in the statement.

Carey, 54, and Tanaka first started working together in 2006, when he joined the renowned singer-songwriter’s Adventures of Mimi tour. She revealed the connection in February 2017, after referring to him as her “boyfriend.” Their romance was also documented on Mariah Carey’s E! reality show, Mariah’s World. They began dating after Carey’s divorce from her ex-fiancé and Australian tycoon James Packer.

Tanaka’s absence from the All I Want For Christmas Is You singer’s Merry Christmas One and All! tour in mid-November fueled speculation about the couple’s breakup.