Who is Tanya Hijazi? All You Need to Know About Rick James’ Ex-Wife

Tanya Hijazi is a name that resonates in the entertainment industry, known for her work as an actress and costume designer. However, she is most widely recognized for her relationship with the late funk legend Rick James. While her marriage to James put her in the spotlight, Tanya’s contributions to film and fashion design are equally noteworthy. Her life story includes creative achievements, personal challenges, and an association with one of music’s most iconic figures.

Quick Bio

Personal Detail	Information
Full Name	Tanya Anne Hijazi
Date of Birth	October 8, 1967
Age	56 years (as of 2024)
Nationality	American
Birthplace	United States
Ethnicity	Mixed (Caucasian and Middle Eastern)
Profession	Actress, Costume Designer
Eye Color	Black
Hair Color	Black
Famous For	The Unseen, I’m Rick James (Documentary)
Marital Status	Divorced (Rick James, 1997–2002)
Children	Ty James, Rick James Jr., Tazman James, Ricki (from a previous relationship)
Height	5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters)
Weight	70 kg (154 lbs)
Net Worth (2024)	Estimated $5 Million USD

Early Life and Background

Tanya Hijazi was born on October 8, 1967, in the United States. While not much is known about her upbringing, she grew up in a multicultural environment, reflecting her Caucasian and Middle Eastern heritage. Her early life remains largely private, but it is evident that she had an interest in fashion and entertainment from a young age.

Tanya’s passion for art, design, and film played a key role in shaping her career in Hollywood. She was drawn to costume design and acting, setting the stage for her future in the entertainment industry.

Career Highlights

Acting Career

Tanya Hijazi’s acting career began in the early 2000s, following her association with Rick James. In 2005, she starred in the movie The Unseen, where she played a significant role that showcased her acting potential. Although she did not pursue acting extensively, this role remains one of her most notable works.

In 2009, Tanya appeared in the documentary I’m Rick James, a film that provided an in-depth look at the legendary musician’s life. The documentary explored Rick James’ musical career, personal life, and struggles, with Tanya contributing both on-screen and behind the scenes.

Costume Designing

Beyond acting, Tanya Hijazi made a name for herself as a skilled costume designer. Her work in costume design was particularly visible in her collaboration with Rick James, where she designed some of his most iconic stage outfits. Tanya had a unique ability to blend flamboyance and practicality, which made Rick James’ stage presence even more dynamic.

Her expertise in fashion extended to film projects as well. She worked as an associate costume designer for the movie The Unseen, further proving her talent in the industry.

Marriage and Relationship with Rick James

Tanya Hijazi’s life took a dramatic turn when she met Rick James at a concert in the late 1980s when she was just 17 years old. Their relationship quickly escalated, and they tied the knot in 1997. The couple had three children together:

• Ty James – Actress, producer, and entrepreneur.
• Rick James Jr. – Has maintained a low-profile life.
• Tazman James – Also keeps a private life.

While their marriage was filled with love and creative collaborations, it was also marred by legal issues and personal struggles. Rick James’ battles with substance abuse and legal troubles strained their relationship, eventually leading to their divorce in 2002.

Legal Troubles and Controversies

One of the most infamous episodes in Tanya Hijazi’s life was her involvement in a 1993 assault case. She and Rick James were accused of kidnapping and assaulting two women, leading to a high-profile trial. Tanya was sentenced to jail time, which had a significant impact on her personal and professional life.

This controversy cast a shadow over her career, but over time, she distanced herself from the negative media attention and focused on rebuilding her life.

Life After Rick James

Following her divorce and Rick James’ passing in 2004, Tanya Hijazi chose to maintain a private lifestyle. Unlike other celebrity ex-wives, she has remained out of the spotlight, rarely making public appearances.

Although she has not remarried, she has focused on raising her children and preserving Rick James’ legacy through her daughter, Ty James, who actively works in the entertainment industry.

Tanya Hijazi’s Net Worth

As of 2024, Tanya Hijazi’s estimated net worth is around $5 million. Her wealth comes from her work in costume design, acting, and her past association with Rick James. While she has maintained a low profile, her contributions to the entertainment industry remain significant.

Conclusion

Tanya Hijazi’s life is a mix of creativity, controversy, and resilience. While she is widely recognized as Rick James’ ex-wife, her contributions to costume design and film are noteworthy. Despite her legal battles and public controversies, Tanya remains an intriguing figure in entertainment history.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is Tanya Hijazi?

Tanya Hijazi is an American actress and costume designer, best known for being the ex-wife of funk legend Rick James.

2. How old is Tanya Hijazi?

As of 2024, Tanya Hijazi is 56 years old (born October 8, 1967).

3. What is Tanya Hijazi famous for?

She is famous for her roles in The Unseen and the documentary I’m Rick James, as well as her costume designs for Rick James’ performances.

4. How many children does Tanya Hijazi have?

She has four children: Ty James, Rick James Jr., Tazman James, and Ricki (from a previous relationship).

5. When did Tanya Hijazi marry Rick James?

She married Rick James in 1997, and they divorced in 2002.

6. What happened between Tanya Hijazi and Rick James?

Their relationship was turbulent, filled with love, creativity, legal troubles, and personal struggles. They divorced in 2002.

7. Was Tanya Hijazi involved in legal controversies?

Yes, in 1993, she was involved in an assault case with Rick James, which led to jail time.

8. What is Tanya Hijazi’s net worth?

Her estimated net worth is around $5 million as of 2024.

9. Has Tanya Hijazi remarried?

No, there is no public information indicating that she has remarried.

10. Where is Tanya Hijazi now?

Tanya maintains a private life and rarely appears in public. She focuses on her family and personal endeavors.

Visit For more, Mega Buzz