Elena Perminova, the well-known model, has announced her separation from billionaire Alexander Lebedev after nearly two decades together, marking yet another high-profile breakup as 2024 draws to a close.
The 38-year-old Perminova, who has four children with the 65-year-old businessman, shared the news on her social media on December 25, stating, "So it happens, even the most beautiful stories come to an end. There is so much good and nice. But the main thing is our four wonderful children. There could not be a greater father for them. Only warmth and gratitude for everything. Now each goes their own way. No more comments will be made. Personal will always be personal."
This announcement brings to light the complications of their relationship, which was characterized as being one of love and mutual respect, yet subjected to public scrutiny due to their significant age difference and the unconventional nature of their arrangement, as they were never officially married.
Perminova and Lebedev had been together for 19 years after meeting when she was just 17 years old. Their union produced four children: Nikita, 15, Eager, 12, Arina, 10, and the youngest, Sasha, who is only three. Their long-term partnership, which resembled common-law marriage rather than formal matrimony, highlighted its unique challenges.
Earlier in their relationship, whispers emerged of crises and infidelity, particularly rumors about Lebedev engaging with other women. Despite these challenges, Perminova previously defended her relationship against criticism, expressing pride and resilience as they navigated through life together. Regarding past gossip, she remarked, "Many were whispering about this: the old man and the foolish young woman, she is with him for the money, he will replace her with someone younger... They said this, my acquaintances. I know this for sure. Many have divorced multiple times. And we have been together and are happy."
This sentiment encapsulated the public's mixed perceptions of their relationship, often questioning the authenticity of their bond due to the significant age difference of 27 years.
Perminova's assertion of being grateful for Lebedev as the father of their children indicates the couple's commitment to co-parenting even as they part ways. Her recent statement, "Best father for them and it couldn't be different. Only warmth and gratitude for all," reflects the goodwill permeated throughout their partnership.
The couple's impressive lifestyle and partnership included ventures such as owning several restaurants and managing business interests, with both partners being active players within their respective industries. Perminova also earned recognition as not just Lebedev's partner but as her own individual businesswoman with her own successful endeavors.
While the couple has decided to live apart, there is no indication of conflicts over shared assets, as their relationship was never formalized under the marriage laws. This separation appears to be amicable, focusing chiefly on the well-being of their children.
Interestingly, this split aligns with other high-profile breakups within the entertainment and celebrity realms, as 2024 has already seen several notable figures announce similar separations, hinting at potential societal shifts or personal reckonings among public figures.
Perminova's thoughtful decision to keep personal matters private suggests she aims to protect the children from media frenzy, demonstrating maturity amid the public eye. Her statement concludes with, "No more comments will be made. Personal will always be personal," underlining her desire for privacy moving forward.
This newfound chapter for both Perminova and Lebedev is undoubtedly the beginning of separate paths, but with their children as the union's enduring legacy, it remains clear how they prioritize family over personal grievances. The couple's substantial history together also highlights the lessons learned throughout their unique family dynamics, which will undoubtedly shape the next steps for both parents.
With their long-standing connection and dedication to their children, the hope remains strong for them as they navigate this change following the recent announcement, ensuring their children continue to experience love, stability, and support from both parents.
