MARIAH Carey’s ex Bryan Tanaka has broken his silence on their mutual split with an emotional Instagram post.
On Tuesday, the dancer opened up about the couple’s conflicting “paths” with a statement to “friends and fans.”
In the statement, Bryan, 40, wrote: “With mixed emotions, I share this personal update regarding my amicable separation from Mariah Carey after seven extraordinary years together.”
He emphasized that their “decision to embark on different paths” was “mutual,” before adding: “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.”
Bryan poetically stated that the memories they created as well as their “artistic collaborations” will forever be “etched” in his heart.
The statement continued: “Mariah’s dedication to her family and her commitment to her craft have inspired us during our shared journey.
“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.”
Bryan asked for “understanding, privacy, and respect” during this “sensitive time” and stated that the “outpouring of love and support from fans has been a beacon of strength.”
He concluded: “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.”
In the comment section, one fan wrote: “Whatever happens, I know you guys really loved and respected each other. Wishing you all the best for 2024.”
Another person commented: “Thank you for taking care of our Queen, @bryantanaka ! We love and personally continue to support you.”
“Crushed. But what a beautiful and honest statement. To the next chapter Tanaka,” added a third.
One skeptical commenter remarked: “Wonder if she will release a statement too or is it just the sheep that she manipulates that release statements.”
THE SPLIT
Last week, it was revealed that Mariah, 54, and Bryan officially called it quits after months of speculation that the couple’s relationship was on the rocks.
Rumors had been circulating about a split after he was notably absent from high-profile events, including the Billboard Music Awards last month.
Eagle-eyed fans also noted a lack of photos of the pair together on social media, before the news of their split was confirmed.
Mariah and Bryan are said to have ended their seven-year romance because the former backup dancer wanted children, a source exclusively told Page Six.
The source claimed: “He wants to have a family. That’s not where she is at.”
Their 14-year age gap is said to have played a role in their wanting different things, according to the outlet.
Mariah has two children – twins Moroccan and Monroe – with her ex-husband Nick Cannon.
Bryan, however, has no children of his own.
Fans had been buzzing about a possible split between the duo for some time.
Speculation intensified after Mariah went on her annual Aspen, Colorado, vacation without her beau by her side.
MAJOR CLUES
Many had long suspected that the relationship was over.
In November, the Queen of Christmas attended the 2023 Billboard Music Awards without Bryan by her side.
While she would normally bring him along, she was instead joined by her twin children.
The awards show shared a sweet snap of the family on social media, adding a caption that read: “It was a family affair at the BBMAs for Mariah Carey!”
Another photo showed the All I Want For Christmas singer posing with an award in her hand.
In the comments, fans fawned over the star and her children.
One wrote: “She looked and sounded great!”
That was far from the first time Mariah was spotted out without Bryan by her side.
In September, she posted a family photo on Instagram of herself posing with her kids and two new additions to the family.
The twins had orange kittens in their hands.
Mariah revealed in the caption: “Summer prolonged…. even though I try, I can’t let go! Introducing #DemKittens, the new adopted family members: Nacho & Rocky Jr.”
Bryan wasn’t pictured or referenced.
He also missed a concert of hers in Los Angeles, which was unusual.
Khloe Kardashian shared photos from the event on social media, which showed her posing with the singer alongside her daughter True, nieces North and Chicago West, Dream, sister Kim, and Kris Jenner, and others.
MARIAH’S MANY SUITORS
Mariah’s first marriage to music executive Tommy Mottola lasted from 1993 through the late 1990s, and she was subsequently linked to several famous men, including Yankee Derek Jeter and singer Luis Miguel, before she met Nick Cannon in the early 2000s.
Mariah was married to Nick, 43, for six years.
They shocked fans when they announced their split in 2014.
The pop singer started dating billionaire James Packer in 2015 and they were engaged by January of the following year.
By October 2016, however, they revealed they had decided to go their separate ways.
That same year, she and Bryan sparked up their romance.
The pair were hot and heavy for quite some time but fans noticed their relationship appeared to have cooled off recently.
