Recent reports have stirred quite a buzz around Aoki Lee Simmons,21, and her fleeting romance with Vittorio Assaf, the 65-year-old co-founder of the Serafina restaurant chain. Despite the significant age gap of 43 years, the brief fling, highlighted through PDA-packed moments during a St. Barts getaway, has already ended.
RELATED STORIES: Russell Simmons Speaks On His Daughter Aoki Dating 65-Year-Old Vittorio Assaf: ‘I’m Not Gonna Kick And Scream About Her Choices’
According to Page Six, sources close to Simmons have confirmed that the relationship has ended. “It’s 100% done. They’re absolutely not dating,” one insider emphasized. Despite referring to Assaf as her “boyfriend” in various Instagram Live sessions from their vacation, it seems the connection was not as serious as it appeared. Simmons had even tagged Assaf as her “second boyfriend” while showcasing his lavish St. Barts residence. However, after images surfaced of the duo sharing intimate moments on the beach, she quickly dismissed any speculation about a serious relationship. “Of course, I’m not with him. I was never with him,” she stated, despite having expressed immense joy while staying at Assaf’s island home.
An acquaintance of Assaf described him as possessing a youthful charm despite his age, known for his preference for younger companions. “He’s always loved younger beautiful women… his taste hasn’t changed,” the source noted. Another insider, who claimed to have had a past encounter with Assaf, hinted at his appeal among women, attributing it to more than just his wealth.
RELATED STORIES: Russell Simmons Sends Daughter Aoki Positive Message After Internet Criticizes Her For Kissing 65-Year-Old Restaurateur Vittorio Assaf
Meanwhile, Russell Simmons seemed unbothered by his daughter’s dating choices, offering only his advice and unconditional love and sending her a heartfelt message on Instagram:
“Throw back from last fathers day nyc …bode bikram yoga express class .. vegan lunch cryotherapy vitamin drip … all around amazing day @aokileesimmons love vou always im always waiting for any call any time.”
Amid the controversy, Aoki was seen embracing her academic and social circles, making a striking appearance at Columbia Law School’s Barristers’ Ball in Manhattan, dressed in a pink satin dress. This transition back to her elite academic environment underscores the fleeting nature of her romance with Assaf and highlights her multifaceted identity beyond the tabloid headlines.
Despite the sensationalism surrounding her recent fling, sources insist Aoki remains grounded, disinterested in material wealth, contradicting any portrayal of her as materialistic based on her social media activity. As this chapter closes, both Aoki and her family seem poised to move beyond the fleeting headlines, focusing on their respective paths and passions.