Phaedra Parks has come to Rick Ross’s defence following his recent arrest on domestic violence-related charges, describing the rapper as a “teddy bear” and a gentleman with a generous heart.
The Real Housewives of Atlanta star spoke about Ross while travelling through Los Angeles International Airport, saying the man she knows is very different from his intimidating public persona.
Parks worked with Ross before he became a global hip-hop star and said she had never personally witnessed the type of behaviour alleged in the criminal case against him.
However, she was careful not to dismiss the accusations or question the person who reported them.
Phaedra praises Ross’s charitable work
Parks pointed to Ross’s charitable contributions and involvement in affordable housing initiatives as examples of what she believes to be his true character.
She acknowledged that the “Hustlin’” rapper can sometimes appear cocky but described him as a gentleman and “big old teddy bear” behind the tough image.
Parks remains publicly supportive of Ross and is scheduled to participate in the first Rich Forever Luxury Women’s Wellness Experience at his Promise Land estate near Atlanta.
The wellness and lifestyle event, which is scheduled to take place from 23 to 25 October, will include fitness, beauty and personal-development activities.
Ross denies battery allegations
Ross, whose legal name is William Roberts II, was arrested in Miami Beach on 1 October after a former girlfriend accused him of physically attacking her during an alleged incident at his home on 28 August.
He faces one felony count of battery by strangulation and one count of misdemeanor battery, with both charges connected to alleged domestic violence.
The woman told police that Ross repeatedly struck her and restricted her breathing during an argument reportedly prompted by a photograph on social media.
Ross surrendered to police before being released on bond. He has pleaded not guilty and denied the allegations, describing them as fabricated.
His lawyers said he was being wrongfully accused and questioned why the police report was made approximately one month after the alleged incident.
“The man behind the marinara”
After leaving custody, Ross attracted attention when he told reporters he planned to travel to Dubai and Paris before enjoying a Sunday meal of “rigatoni with heavy marinara.”
Parks joked that she knows “the man behind the marinara” but believes the rapper could reduce both his cockiness and the amount of sauce he consumes.
Her alternative recommendation was linguine with clams rather than another heavily sauced bowl of rigatoni.
Despite the light-hearted culinary advice, Ross continues to face serious criminal allegations. His arraignment is scheduled for 22 October, and the charges against him have not been proven in court.
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