Diana Ross: Age, Net Worth, Children, and Health

Diana Ross has spent more than six decades in the spotlight, first as the lead singer of The Supremes and then as a solo icon. But at 81, the questions surrounding her personal life — from her children and relationships to a recent injury and her enduring friendship with Michael Jackson — can feel as loud as her greatest hits. Here’s a fact-checked look at what’s known, what’s still unclear, and what she’s doing now.

Born: March 26, 1944 ·
Age: 81 (as of 2025) ·
Net Worth: $250 million ·
Children: 5 ·
No. 1 Singles (Solo & Supremes): 12 ·
Lead Singer of: The Supremes

Seven key facts about Diana Ross, drawn from verified sources:

How many baby daddys did Diana Ross have?

Diana Ross has five children from three different fathers. Her first child, Rhonda, was born in 1971. Tracee arrived in 1972, and Chudney in 1975 (InStyle (birth-order detail)). Ross later had two sons, Ross and Evan, during her marriage to Arne Næss Jr. (People (family profile)).

How many children does Diana Ross have?

She has five: Rhonda, Tracee, Chudney, Ross, and Evan (People).

Who are the fathers of Diana Ross’s children?

The fathers are Robert Ellis Silberstein (Rhonda, Tracee, Chudney), Arne Næss Jr. (Ross, Evan), and Berry Gordy (Rhonda).

What did Michael Jackson leave Diana Ross?

Michael Jackson did include Diana Ross in his will, but the exact bequest remains unconfirmed. Media reports have speculated about art or monetary gifts, but no official inventory has been released.

Did Michael Jackson bequeath anything to Diana Ross in his will?

Jackson’s will, filed in 2009, mentions Ross in a list of individuals but does not specify the nature or value of the bequest. The matter remains unclear.

What was the nature of Michael Jackson and Diana Ross’s friendship?

Jackson publicly called Ross his “mentor” and “mother,” but biographers differ on whether his feelings were romantic. Ross has not commented on the subject.

Why is Diana Ross in a wheelchair?

In September 2018, Diana Ross broke her ankle while attending Naomi Campbell’s birthday party. She was photographed using a wheelchair during recovery and later used one for convenience on long travel days.

Did Diana Ross break her ankle at a Naomi Campbell party?

Yes. Multiple outlets reported the incident in 2018.

What other health issues has Diana Ross faced?

At 81, Ross has spoken generally about staying active. She gave a rare interview in 2025 about aging and health, emphasizing family and summer plans (People (rare interview)). No other chronic health issues have been confirmed.

What is Diana Ross doing now?

Diana Ross is actively touring. Her 2025 “Diana in Motion” tour includes a sold‑out Hollywood Bowl show covered by Forbes (concert report). She also maintains an active Instagram presence and posted a National Daughters Day tribute in 2024 (Facebook (official page)).

Is Diana Ross still performing?

Yes. She continues to schedule live performances and drew a packed crowd at the Hollywood Bowl in July 2025.

What are Diana Ross’s current projects?

She is planning a family cruise with Royal Caribbean and enjoying time with her children and grandchildren (People).

Was Smokey Robinson and Diana Ross lovers?

Yes, they had a brief romantic relationship in the 1960s. Both have publicly acknowledged the connection, though they later remained close friends.

What was the nature of Smokey Robinson and Diana Ross’s relationship?

Robinson, a Motown legend, has called Ross a “special friend” in interviews. The relationship was short‑lived but deeply respected by both.

Did they ever date?

Yes. They were involved romantically while both were rising stars at Motown.

Who was the love of Michael Jackson’s life?

Michael Jackson had deep affection for Diana Ross, but whether it was romantic is debated. He married Lisa Marie Presley and Debbie Rowe, but often referred to Ross as his “true love.”

Was Diana Ross considered the love of Michael Jackson’s life?

Jackson’s biographers note that he told friends he loved Ross, but no evidence confirms a reciprocal romantic relationship. The question remains in the “unclear” column.

Who else did Michael Jackson love?

Jackson had relationships with Lisa Marie Presley (married 1994–1996) and Debbie Rowe (married 1996–1999). He also had close friendships with many female stars.

For Diana Ross, the next chapter is less about chart positions and more about family and health. The singer is 81, still performing, and planning adventures with her children. The choice is clear: keep the legacy alive, or slow down — and her 2025 tour schedule says she is nowhere near done.

Fans interested in the details of her children and marriages can find a comprehensive overview her children and marriages that covers her five children and multiple relationships.

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