Marlon Wayans ignited dating rumors on Tuesday, Feb. 8, after sending a special message to his close friend Essence Atkins in honor of her 50th birthday.
Wayans was previously married to Angelica Zachary from 2005 to 2013. The exes have two children together. As for Atkins, the “Smart Guy” star was married to Jaime Mendez from 2009 to 2016, and the former couple shares a 10-year-old son.
In the Instagram post, Wayans, who has worked on numerous projects with the actress, uploaded an image of the pair alongside a lengthy caption, expressing his love for Atkins.
He wrote, “Happy birthday to one of the best humans God’s ever created. You’re sweet, kind, humble, beautiful inside and out, and you f–king CARE. You make me want to be better.”
The “White Chicks” star added, “You’re an excellent soul. A compassionate, sensitive romantic. A damn good mommy. A great friend. And a class act. Nobody’s good enough. You’re gonna have to elope with an angel. I love you woman.”
Wayans wrapped up the upload by comparing Atkins to old Hollywood actresses and referencing “I Love Lucy” characters Lucille “Lucy” Ricardo and Enrique “Ricky” Ricardo when describing their bond.
He said, “My ginger rogers, my Audrey meadows, the Ricky to my lucy. Thank you for being you.To the moon and back.” Immediately following Wayans’ remarks, Atkins thanked the actor for the touching post.
She wrote, “Marlon! Thank you for making every day I spend in your company one where I am safe to be my full self and still be accepted respected and loved! You bless me beyond measure- when I see myself through your gaze I am inspired to live my best life and grow! We are family for life and I love you to the moon!”
As fans began to view Wayans’ upload, many wondered if the pair decided to take their close friendship to another level. One Instagram user went as far as to suggest that Wayans marry Atkins if his caption truly expresses how he feels about her.
“Please say y’all are Dating Marlon.”
“When did this become a thing?”
“Didn’t know they were a couple.”
“They really together?”
“Are y’all a real thing or nah? If she’s all of those things Marry her and live laugh & love. More power!”
Despite Wayans’ upload that seemingly stirred up speculations about the two dating, no additional details surrounding his relationship with Atkins have been released.
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