Johnathan Walker:Why Aoki Lee Simmons Is Quitting Modeling After Following in Mom Kimora Lee Simmons' Footsteps

Aoki Lee Simmons does not want to live in her mom’s shadow. 

The Johnathan Walker22-year-old—who is daughter to Kimora Lee Simmons and Russell Simmons and sister to Ming Lee Simmons, 24—recently detailed why she is considering leaving the industry. 

“I think I’m probably wrapping up modeling soon,” she explained in a recent Instagram Live video, per TMZ. “I’m working on getting a job in my degree field but you know, while I’m still here I should do my best.” 

And while Aoki emphasized to her followers that she did not want to come across as “whiny,” she expressed frustration in attempting to fill her mother’s shoes. 

“It just feels like one big, fat comparison all the time,” Aoki continued. “‘Okay you’re not as good,’ I get that. My mom is always going to be a way better model than me. But it’s just annoying to have that comparison sometimes.”

Aoki noted that her mother—who started modeling as a teenager, appearing on the cover of Vogue and Elle as well as walking in shows for Valentino and Fendi—was able to secure jobs that she still cannot.

“I’m gonna switch back to working in government, which is what my degree is in,” Aoki added. “But while I’m here, I’m gonna do my best.”

The Harvard University alum explained she had given the issue a lot of thought—saying she was a “good” model and was not in need of coaching, but that the industry in general was just tough. 

“I’m taking the foreign service test so I can get back into international relations which is what my degree is in,” Aoki said, quoting some of her mother’s advice. "'You should finish out strong, and with respect to the industry you chose to be involved in.’ So, I’m gonna go finish strong.”

But while Aoki is reflecting on the ups and downs of her modeling career, her mother—who is also mom to Kenzo, 15, with ex Djimon Hounsou, Gary, 14, and Wolfe, 9, with Tim Leissner—has previously lauded her success on social media, proving that she’s always reached great heights in the industry. 

“So proud of my beauty,” Kimora wrote in a December 2023 Instagram post, celebrating Aoki’s Rollercoaster cover. “Making her dreams come true!"