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During a recent guest appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, Boris Kodjoe shared insights about adjusting to life as an empty nester.
The star of Soul Food opened up about the emotional journey he and his wife, Nicole Ari Parker, underwent after their son Nicolas and daughter Sophie moved out of the family home.
“Initially, the first few months were tough. I went through a period of sadness and depression for about four months. I even found myself sleeping in their beds at night. Our dogs were affected too, as the energy in the house shifted,” Kodjoe revealed. “For twenty years, we raised these kids, and the house was filled with noise, laughter, and activity. Suddenly, it became eerily quiet.”
However, over time, the couple adapted to their new lifestyle and have come to appreciate this phase of life.
“Nicole and I took some time to adjust, but now it feels amazing. We’ve rediscovered each other and our own identities,” the Station 19 actor explained. “We enjoy all these wonderful experiences together, embark on adventures, and even appreciate the freedom of not having to lock doors anymore. So, there’s no need to be afraid.”
“So, Nicole and I had to get used to that first, but now is the best thing in the world. Look, you rediscover each other. You rediscover who you are. What is your identity?” the Station 19 actor continued. “And we get to do all these great things together. Go on all these adventures together. Be naked together. We don’t have to lock doors anymore. So, don’t be scared.”
Kodjoe and Parker welcomed daughter Sophie in 2005 and son Nicolas in 2006. Kodjoe previously spoke with People in 2007 about how becoming a father reshaped him.
“Once you become a parent, you’re introduced to a whole new level of emotion,” he told the outlet. “I want to do well and conquer the world for them, like Superman. It’s as if a whole new chamber in my heart has opened up.”
The family also faced challenges when Sophie was diagnosed with spina bifida as an infant. The experience led the couple to launch the Kodjoe Family Foundation. Today, both children are healthy and thriving.
“To me, my family is beautiful because everyone is kind,” he said in 2019 to People. “They’re compassionate, they’re considerate.”