Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Tori Kelly is married to former professional basketball player André Murillo. The couple tied the knot in May 2018 after dating for roughly two years. Their relationship often draws public interest due to their shared faith, strong public support for one another's careers, and how they navigate life in the entertainment industry together.
Understanding Tori Kelly's marital status requires looking past standard tabloid rumors and examining the actual timeline of her relationship with Murillo. From their early days dating to how they handle public life and support each other through major health scares, here is a complete breakdown of their relationship.
Who Is André Murillo?
André Murillo is a former professional basketball player born on May 18, 1990. Standing at six feet and seven inches, he played college basketball for Biola University and Concordia University Irvine before taking his career overseas. He played in the German Pro A basketball league, spending time with teams like the Hamburg Towers.
Injuries unfortunately cut his professional athletic career short, leading him to pivot into other personal and professional endeavors. Beyond his athletic background, Murillo is open about his Christian faith, which heavily aligns with Kelly's personal values and public music career, especially her gospel releases. The couple shares a quiet, grounded domestic life, often spotlighting their rescue dog, Frodo, on social media rather than chasing constant Hollywood nightlife.
Relationship Timeline: From Dating to Marriage
Tori Kelly and André Murillo crossed paths and started dating around 2016. Unlike many high-profile celebrity couples who meet through industry events or mutual agents, they connected through shared personal circles.
- Late 2016: The pair quietly began dating, keeping initial details mostly out of the public eye while establishing a solid foundation.
- September 2017: Murillo proposed. Kelly shared the engagement news on Instagram with a surprised, joyful photo, while Murillo posted a tribute calling her his best friend.
- May 2018: The couple officially married in an intimate ceremony. Kelly marked the occasion by quoting theologian Tim Keller on social media, emphasizing the deep value of being fully known and truly loved.
- 2019 to Present: The pair celebrated multiple anniversaries, navigated sudden health challenges together, and continued to support each other's evolving artistic and professional projects.
Navigating Public Life and Health Crises
Being married to a major pop and gospel star means Murillo occasionally steps into the spotlight, particularly during high-stress moments. In July 2023, public attention surged toward their relationship when Kelly was hospitalized for blood clots in her legs and lungs.
While media outlets swarmed with speculative reports, Murillo served as the primary, steady voice for her fans. He took to social media to share cautious yet reassuring updates, writing that while she wasn't completely out of the woods, she was smiling again and feeling stronger. That transparency helped calm anxious fans and highlighted the strength of their partnership during severe personal trials.
Kelly has frequently noted in interviews that marriage isn't without its daily work. She has mentioned that commitment means accepting all parts of a person—both the good and the difficult—and actively choosing to grow side by side rather than expecting a picture-perfect fairytale.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Tori Kelly and André Murillo get married?
They officially tied the knot in May 2018 after dating for approximately two years.
Does Tori Kelly have children?
The couple shares a tight-knit household centered around each other and their pets, keeping details about family planning largely private outside of occasional major announcements. You can read more about her career milestones on Wikipedia.
What is André Murillo's background?
He is a former professional basketball player who played college basketball in the United States and professionally in Germany before retiring due to injuries.
How did Tori Kelly and André Murillo meet?
They met through mutual personal connections and shared social circles in Southern California, bonding early on over shared values and faith.