Now in its fifth year, Tommy Oliver’s Father Noir visual memoir celebrates the beauty, complexity, and everyday magic of Black fathers. Few figures embody the series’ spirit more fully than John Legend. The EGOT-winning artist, activist, and father of four has turned his life into a living love letter—not just to music, but to his children, his wife Chrissy Teigen, and the transformative power of presence.

John rose to fame with his 2004 debut album Get Lifted, and has since become a household name through hits like “Ordinary People” and “All of Me.” But beyond the accolades—including 12 Grammys and a rare EGOT status—Legend’s most cherished role is that of “Dad.” He and Chrisy, his wife since 2013, are parents to four children: Luna Simone, 9, Miles Theodore, 6, Esti Maxine, 2, and Wren Alexander, nearly 2. 

John Legend and family

Their journey to parenthood has been marked by both joy and heartbreak. The couple lost their son, Jack, in 2020 after Chrissy experienced pregnancy complications. Three years after that devastating loss, John and Chrissy welcomed daughter Esti. Their youngest son, Wren, was born via surrogate in June 2023. Legend has spoken openly about the emotional depth of fatherhood, saying, “It’s a different kind of love. It’s very pure. It’s unconditional. But they haven’t earned it yet. They didn’t do anything. They just exist… It’s beautiful, it’s very emotional, and it brings you and your wife closer together. It’s a very powerful feeling to see the product of your love right there in front of you.”

For Legend, being a father is about being present. He emphasizes mindfulness and intention in parenting. One of the sweetest glimpses into John Legend’s fatherhood came from watching him cheer on his daughter, Luna, as she took the stage in her school’s production of The Lion King earlier this year. At just 8 years old, Luna played the role of Young Nala, and Legend was full of pride and joy. “Luna was wonderful as Young Nala in her school’s production of The Lion King! We were so proud!” John wrote on Instagram. 

He also acknowledges the importance of nurturing individuality in his children. When Luna asked who was prettier between two people they saw, Legend responded, “Everybody’s pretty and everyone’s beautiful in their own way. They’re just different from each other and what’s different is what makes you special.”

Legend’s approach to fatherhood is deeply influenced by his experiences with loss and resilience. After the birth of Esti, he shared on Instagram, “I’m in awe of Chrissy’s strength and resilience and I’m so thrilled to see how Luna and Miles embrace their baby sister. I’m so, so grateful, but that doesn’t seem like a big enough word.”

John Legend and family

His commitment to family is etched in ink and in his music. In 2024, he updated his heart monitor tattoo to include the names of Esti and Wren, alongside Chrissy, Luna, and Miles—a permanent tribute to the family that fuels his artistry and activism. His love for his family also inspired him to write a children’s album titled My Favorite Dream. 

“I want our babies AND yours to find joy and inspiration and comfort from this music,” the singer wrote about the album in August 2024. “I hope it helps them fall in love with music and helps them cope with all the worries and challenges they may have.”

Beyond his own family, John is committed to redefining what it means to be a Black father in today’s world. Through platforms like Father Noir and his public conversations, he works to break down stereotypes and showcase the beauty of Black fatherhood. Legend’s example encourages Black dads everywhere to embrace vulnerability and intentional love, reminding us that being a father is a powerful, ongoing act of love and presence.