Bryan Tanaka, the former backup dancer and creative director for Mariah Carey, has officially confirmed their separation after a seven-year relationship. In a statement shared with the media and posted on Tanaka’s Instagram, he expressed mixed emotions while providing insights into their amicable breakup.
In the heartfelt message, Tanaka revealed, “With mixed emotions, I share this personal update regarding my amicable separation from Mariah Carey after seven extraordinary years together. Our decision to embark on different paths is mutual, and as we navigate these separate journeys, we do so with profound respect and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the invaluable time we’ve shared. The memories we’ve created and the artistic collaborations are etched in my heart forever.”
As Tanaka looks to the future, he stated, “I eagerly anticipate continuing my journey, knowing my passion for inspiration, dance, and the creative arts will resonate in the unfolding chapters.”
The pair initially crossed paths in 2006 when Tanaka joined Carey’s The Adventures of Mimi tour as a backup dancer. While their romantic involvement became public knowledge in 2017, Carey had always been guarded about her personal life. In a 2017 interview with the AP, she mentioned, “I’m just going to be like ‘I really don’t talk about my personal life.’ Because that’s what I used to do and it really worked for a minute, back, a while ago. I just don’t feel comfortable talking about my personal life. … Me and my boyfriend don’t want to do that.”
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Speculation about their separation began circulating online last month when Tanaka did not accompany Carey on her Merry Christmas One and All! tour. As of now, Carey has not issued a public statement regarding the breakup.