Vybz Kartel is now officially engaged to his longtime girlfriend, Sidem Öztürk, proposing just months after his release from prison.
The dancehall artist shared a video on Instagram on Tuesday (November 5) showing the moment he knelt down to pop the question. In the video, filmed in a hotel room, he surprised Sidem and proudly showed off the engagement ring to his followers. He captioned the post, “It’s official… I proposed in prison, but now I proposed in real life,” expressing his joy.
Kartel and Sidem first met in 2015 while he was serving a prison sentence for a murder conviction. Over the years, they spoke openly about their strong bond and commitment. His conviction was recently overturned, leading to his release in July.
Who is Vybz Kartel?
Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Azim Palmer, is a well-known Jamaican dancehall artist famous for his influential music and distinct style in the genre. Born on January 7, 1976, in Kingston, Jamaica, Kartel has made a lasting mark in the dancehall and reggae music scenes with hit songs like “Fever” and “Romping Shop.” Over the years, his musical career has seen tremendous success, despite facing legal challenges. Kartel was convicted in 2014 on murder charges, which led to a lengthy prison sentence. However, after appealing the case, his conviction was overturned, and he was released from prison in July 2024.
Known as “The Worl’ Boss” by fans, Kartel’s bold lyrics and influence on modern dancehall have made him one of the genre’s most impactful figures. He also has a business side, as he has ventured into products like a line of skin-lightening cosmetics and streetwear clothing. Kartel’s estimated net worth is around $1 million, stemming largely from his music and brand ventures.
Who is Vybz Kartel’s Girlfriend, Sidem Öztürk?
Sidem Öztürk is Kartel’s longtime girlfriend and now fiancée. The couple first met in 2015 while Kartel was in prison. Despite his incarceration, they developed a deep and committed relationship, and over the years, Sidem has been a strong source of support for him. She has stood by him throughout his legal battles and remained committed to their relationship. Little information about her career or background is publicly available, but Sidem has openly supported Kartel, showing dedication to his career and personal life.
Vybz Kartel expressed deep gratitude to his fiancée, Sidem Öztürk, saying, “You stood by me when I needed you the most, and I’ll never leave you. I treasure every visit, call, and shared moment—laughing, talking, and even crying together.
He continued, “You’ve been my support, closest friend, and partner. I hope we stay together as long as I live. I love you, baby.”
Kartel and Sidem first met in 2015 and have managed a long-distance relationship for nine years due to Kartel’s imprisonment in Jamaica.
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Vybz Kartel Proposes After Prison Release
Kartel proposed to Sidem just months after his release from prison, sharing the joyful moment with fans through an Instagram post on November 5, 2024. In the video, Kartel is seen on one knee in a hotel room, surprising Sidem with the proposal and showing off her engagement ring. He captioned the post, saying, “It’s official… I proposed in prison, but now I proposed in real life.” This proposal comes after years of loyalty and support between the couple.
Their Relationship Through the Years
Kartel and Sidem’s journey began under unique circumstances due to his prison sentence. Despite the challenges, they have stayed connected and committed to each other. Sidem visited Kartel in prison frequently, and they spoke publicly about their bond, keeping their relationship strong during his incarceration. Since Kartel’s release, the couple is now stepping into a new chapter in their lives together.