Thomas Rhett Talks Fame’s Challenges and Marriage with Lauren Akins

Thomas Rhett recently revealed insights into his journey to fame and how it affected his relationship with his wife, Lauren Akins. In an interview on the “Girls In Low Places” podcast, Rhett discussed the challenges they faced as a couple due to his career in country music.

Rhett described Lauren’s desire for a simple life. He said, “Lauren really craves simplicity at all costs.” Though she recognized his talent, she understood the rarity of achieving stardom. Rhett shared a memory of Lauren’s childhood, where she and her father would admire the night sky, identifying constellations and satellites.

Rhett and Akins have known each other since they were children. They dated briefly in high school and reconnected after college, marrying at 22. Rhett acknowledged the unique challenges fame presents, such as line-cutting privileges, which he chooses not to indulge in. He noted, “There’s nothing normal about fame.”

His career gained momentum between 2017 and 2019. Reflecting on this period, Rhett admitted, “I don’t think I let it get to my head, but I got really used to it.” He recognized the need to resist letting fame alter his perspective, especially when performing for large audiences.

Balancing family life with his career has been demanding. Rhett and Lauren share five children: Willa, Ada, Lennon, Lillie, and Brave. He spoke about the strain of late-night performances combined with parenting responsibilities. To maintain a strong marital relationship, Rhett advises couples to continue dating each other, despite the added responsibilities of parenthood.

In a candid moment, Rhett discussed the impact of early fame on his marriage during another podcast appearance. He described feeling like he was “living a double life” and the importance of affirmation in his life. He realized that his focus on affirmation strained his relationship with Lauren.

Rhett emphasized the importance of mutual commitment, expressing that divorce is not an option for them. However, he admitted that anything becomes possible if left unchecked. It was during the pandemic in 2020 that Rhett began discovering his true self, without the influence of fame or external validation.

Concluding, Rhett expressed contentment in his current life, stating, “I’m living my most true self now,” while acknowledging that his wife has consistently embodied an authentic life.