Irv Gotti, the influential music producer and co-founder of Murder Inc. Records, has passed away at 54. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed his death on February 5, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that helped shape the sound of hip-hop.
Born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., Gotti was a driving force behind some of the biggest hits in the industry. Through Murder Inc., an imprint of Def Jam Recordings, the musician worked with legends like Jay-Z, DMX, Kanye West, Ja Rule, Fat Joe, and Eve, earning producer credits on tracks that defined an era.
While his career was filled with success, his personal life was far more complicated. His marriage to Debbie Lorenzo ended in divorce, largely due to his highly publicized affairs. Despite the turbulence, the two shared a family.
Here’s a closer look at his ex-wife, Debbie Lorenzo, and their children.
Also Read: Who Was Irv Gotti’s Net Worth At The Time of His Death?
Who Was Irv Gotti’s Ex-Wife, Debbie Lorenzo?
Lorenzo has built a name for herself outside of her past with Irv Gotti. She is a designer and entrepreneur, known for her handcrafted hat collection under the brand Frances Grey by Deb Lorenzo. Her designs have gained recognition, even landing a spot at Nordstrom, according to the brand’s official website.
Lorenzo actively showcases her work on social media, sharing new styles and collections through her personal Instagram @debbielorenzo_ and her business page @frances.grey.
Gotti and Debbie Had Three Children
During their marriage, Gotti and his former spouse Debbie welcomed three children—Angie, Sonny, and Jonathan Wilson Gotti. Unlike many celebrity kids, they grew up away from the spotlight, with their parents ensuring they had a relatively private upbringing.
In an interview with Ashley’s Reality Roundup, Angie and JJ shared that there was never any expectation for them to follow in their father’s footsteps. “There was never like, that pressure that we have to fill our dad’s shoes,” Angie said, reflecting on their upbringing.
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Despite staying out of the public eye for most of their lives, the Gotti siblings made an appearance on Growing Up Hip-Hop, where they opened up about their childhood and what it was like being raised by one of the most influential producers.
They Separated and Divorced in 2013
Gotti and Lorenzo’s marriage lasted several years before it started falling apart. By 2013, they finalized their divorce, ending a relationship that had been plagued by infidelity.
In an interview with Essence Magazine, Lorenzo revealed that Gotti’s repeated cheating ultimately led to their split. She admitted she had tried to salvage the marriage but realized she had to walk away. “I had to set these boundaries for me so that when I move forward in any other relationship, my boundaries will be respected,” she shared.
Looking back, she acknowledged the deep resentment she once held. “I used to hate Irv and everyone affiliated with him because I was so angry, bitter, and hurt,” she admitted. But over time, forgiveness allowed her to heal and move forward.
Their divorce fueled ongoing speculation about Gotti’s alleged relationship with Ashanti. For years, rumors swirled that the two had been romantically involved while he was still married, though Gotti repeatedly denied it. However, during an appearance on Drink Champs, he admitted they had been in love, though the relationship eventually ended.
Not long after, Ashanti moved on and began dating rapper Nelly.
Gotti and Debbie Reunited on Gotti’s Way After Their Divorce
Even after their divorce, the former duo crossed paths again—this time on-screen. On May 4, 2020, Gotti and his ex Debbie reunited for the second season of Gotti’s Way 2, a reality show that documented their post-divorce relationship and efforts to co-parent their children.
The series gave viewers an inside look at their attempt to maintain a sense of family despite their past. While reconciliation wasn’t in the cards for them as a couple, their shared commitment to their children kept them connected.
