Usher Reveals That He Felt “Attacked” By His Fans During His Marriage To Tameka Foster: “I Felt Like My Female Fans Were Judgmental Of The Woman That I Chose”

In this week’s cover story for PEOPLE, 45-year-old superstar Usher shares insights into his personal journey, touching on the challenges he faced, including those during his previous marriage to Tameka Foster, and his current contentment as a newlywed. In the late 2000s, Usher’s heart was captured by stylist Tameka Foster, coming off the heels of his celebrated relationship with TLC’s Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas. However, his 2007 marriage to Foster was met with criticism from fans, who were not shy about expressing their disapproval.

“I think I became very closed off and then felt under attack in many ways,” he explained. “It was somewhat unconventional at a time when I felt my female fans were critical of the woman I chose.”

Usher expressed uncertainty regarding the root of the public’s scrutiny towards Foster, though he speculated on possible reasons.

“She was a dark-skinned woman, and perhaps they were reluctant to embrace her due to reasons that might reflect their own biases,” he speculated. “Or possibly, they judged her based on her behavior. But that’s not for me to dwell on. I did what I believed was right.”

During a heartfelt interview with Essence magazine at the time, Usher reflected on how the backlash impacted their relationship.

“Our love story isn’t typical, but it’s real,” he remarked. “Tameka and I were lucky enough to face our challenges early on. We had the chance to unite as a team, ensuring we communicated with a single voice.”

Despite their efforts, Usher and Foster went their separate ways in 2009. Following his acclaimed Super Bowl performance, Usher found love again and married music executive Jenn Goicoechea. The couple is now parents to a daughter, Sovereign, and a son, Sire.