Who Is Robert Maraj?
Robert Maraj was the husband of Carol Maraj and the man who helped raise Nicki Minaj after her family relocated from Trinidad and Tobago to Queens, New York.
Although many media outlets have historically identified Robert as Nicki Minaj's biological father, Nicki has made statements over the years indicating that her biological father is a different man who lives in Trinidad. According to Nicki's account, Robert was her mother's husband and the father of two of her younger siblings.
Robert Maraj and Carol Maraj
Robert married Carol Maraj after Nicki was born.
The family later moved to New York, where Nicki spent most of her childhood growing up in Queens.
Nicki has spoken openly about the challenges she experienced during her upbringing, including Robert's struggles with substance abuse and domestic violence. Those experiences have influenced several of her songs and interviews throughout her career.
Nicki Minaj's Biological Father
According to Nicki Minaj, her biological father is a man who still lives in Trinidad and Tobago.
Nicki has also stated that she shares the same biological father as her younger half-sister, Ming Luan Li. This has led many longtime fans to distinguish between Robert Maraj—who raised Nicki during her childhood—and her biological father.
Robert's Children
Robert Maraj and Carol Maraj are the parents of:
Jelani Maraj
Micaiah Maraj
Nicki has described Ming Luan Li as sharing her biological father rather, than Robert.
Robert's Relationship With Nicki
Despite their difficult relationship during Nicki's childhood, the two reportedly reconciled later in life.
Nicki shared emotional tributes following Robert's death in 2021, describing the loss as one of the hardest experiences of her life. Their relationship evolved significantly over the years after Robert reportedly became sober.
Robert Maraj's Death
Robert Maraj died in February 2021 after being struck in a hit-and-run accident in Mineola, New York.
His passing prompted an outpouring of support from fans around the world, and Nicki later reflected publicly on the grief of losing someone who had been part of her life since childhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Robert Maraj Nicki Minaj's biological father?
While many published biographies identify Robert as Nicki Minaj's father, Nicki has stated that her biological father is another man who lives in Trinidad. According to her account, Robert was her mother's husband and helped raise her.
Who is Ming Luan Li?
Ming Luan Li is Nicki Minaj's younger half-sister. Nicki has said they share the same biological father.
Who are Robert Maraj's children?
Robert Maraj is associated with Jelani Maraj and Micaiah Maraj through his marriage to Carol Maraj.
Final Thoughts
Robert Maraj played an important role in Nicki Minaj's upbringing and remained part of her family throughout her life. While public records and media reports have often described him as her father, Nicki herself has distinguished between Robert and her biological father. Understanding that distinction helps explain why fans continue to discuss her family history today.