Riza Simpson, the former girlfriend of acclaimed actor Djimon Hounsou, was taken into custody last week following allegations that she physically assaulted the Gladiator star at their shared Atlanta residence. The arrest marks a dramatic turn in what has largely been a private relationship between the pair, who share two children together.
Police Report Details Alleged December Altercation
According to an incident report obtained by the Daily Mail from the Atlanta Police Department, the 61-year-old Beninese-American actor reported to officers last month that Simpson struck him in the face with a closed fist. Hounsou stated that the alleged assault occurred on December 2, 2025, after he had asked Simpson to move out of their townhouse in Atlanta.
The police document reveals that the couple's two children were present in the home at the time of the reported incident, though Hounsou indicated they were upstairs and may not have witnessed the altercation directly. He did acknowledge, however, that the children might have heard the commotion from their location.
Friday Arrest on Multiple Charges
On Friday, January 16, Atlanta Police Department officers arrived at the same townhouse with an arrest warrant for Simpson. She was taken into custody on two misdemeanor charges: simple assault and obstruction for allegedly providing false information to law enforcement officials.
TMZ reported that children were present with Simpson at the time of her arrest, and crying could allegedly be heard in the background when officers knocked on the door. This detail adds another layer of complexity to what appears to be a domestic situation involving minor children.
Booking Details and Subsequent Release
Records viewed by the Daily Mail indicate that Simpson was booked at the Atlanta City Detention Center on a charge of battery—family violence, which was listed as a first offense for her. According to Us Weekly, she was released from jail on Tuesday, January 20, after posting a $500 bond.
Following her release from the city detention center, Simpson was transferred to the Fulton County Jail due to the outstanding arrest warrant. A representative for the facility informed Us Weekly that her court date is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, at 9 a.m., where she will face the charges against her.
Hounsou's Previous Relationship and Family Life
Prior to his relationship with Simpson, Hounsou was involved with model Kimora Lee Simmons from 2007 to 2012. The couple participated in a traditional Beninese commitment ceremony during a visit to Hounsou's home country in the summer of 2008, though they were never legally married.
Simmons and Hounsou share a 16-year-old son, Kenzo Lee Hounsou, who was born in 2009. The couple announced their separation in November 2012, after which Hounsou began his relationship with Simpson sometime later.
Career of an Acclaimed Actor
Djimon Hounsou has built a distinguished career in Hollywood, earning two Oscar nominations for his powerful performances. He is perhaps best known for his role in Ridley Scott's epic historical drama Gladiator, where he starred alongside Russell Crowe.
The actor's filmography includes several critically acclaimed projects, including Steven Spielberg's Amistad, as well as numerous blockbuster superhero films from both Marvel and DC universes. His recent credits include appearances in Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain Marvel, Aquaman, Shazam!, and Black Adam.
Despite his professional success, Hounsou has recently spoken about financial struggles in Hollywood, revealing in interviews that he has faced challenges in maintaining a steady income within the competitive industry.
The arrest of his ex-girlfriend brings unwanted attention to the actor's personal life, which he and Simpson have largely kept out of the public eye until now. As the legal proceedings move forward, more details may emerge about the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault and the subsequent charges.
