Early Life and Background
Bryson Rashard Bryant was born on December 26, 1989, in Atlanta, Georgia. He is the eldest son of NeNe Leakes, a prominent figure in American reality television. His biological father’s identity remains publicly undisclosed. Bryson was later raised by NeNe’s husband, Gregg Leakes, who passed away in 2021. Bryson has one half-brother, Brentt Leakes, born February 22, 1999.
Key Family Information
| Name | Relationship | Birth Date | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| NeNe Leakes | Mother | December 13, 1967 | Television personality |
| Gregg Leakes | Stepfather (deceased) | August 18, 1954 – September 1, 2021 | Appeared on reality TV |
| Brentt Leakes | Half-brother | February 22, 1999 | Suffered a stroke in 2022 |
Media Exposure and Public Attention
Bryson first gained national visibility through his appearances on reality television during his teenage years. His on-camera presence from a young age exposed him to both fame and criticism, often during a formative and vulnerable period of life.
Though not a central character, Bryson was frequently shown as part of NeNe’s personal storyline. His mother has acknowledged that this early exposure may have intensified the pressures he faced but stops short of attributing his later difficulties solely to media involvement.
Legal History and Criminal Record
Bryson Bryant’s legal troubles span more than a decade, involving multiple arrests for offenses ranging from DUI to drug possession and fraud. Below is a chronological summary of his documented legal history:
Arrest History
| Date | Location | Charges |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Georgia | Driving under the influence (DUI) |
| 2012 | Georgia | Driving with suspended license; shoplifting razors from retail store |
| 2015 | McDonald’s, Georgia | Counterfeit check scheme; providing false identity |
| July 3, 2023 | Lawrenceville, GA | Possession of Schedule II substance (fentanyl), probation violation, false ID |
In 2023, he was arrested after police found suspected fentanyl in his vehicle. During the arrest, Bryson provided the name “Brentt Leakes,” attempting to impersonate his younger brother. He also gave an outdated home address.
2024 Plea Deal Summary
| Charge | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Felony drug possession | Dropped |
| False information | Guilty (Misdemeanor) |
| Sentence | 12 months probation |
| Fine | $500 |
| Community service | 40 hours |
| Drug testing | Random, court-mandated |
Addiction, Rehabilitation, and Family Response
Bryson has struggled with addiction issues for many years. According to statements from his mother, he has attended multiple rehabilitation programs and relapsed several times. She has invested substantial financial and emotional resources into his recovery.
In 2024, he agreed to probation conditions that include court-mandated drug testing and community service. His family, including former athletes and recovery advocates, have tried to connect him with specialized treatment centers.
Summary of Rehabilitation Efforts
| Year(s) | Action | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple | Entry into addiction treatment centers | Repeated relapses |
| 2023-2024 | Legal intervention and court-mandated rehab | Under court supervision |
Children and Paternity
Bryson Bryant is reportedly the father of at least three children by multiple women. However, some relationships remain publicly disputed, and he has not acknowledged all children legally or personally.
Known or Claimed Children
| Name | Mother | Estimated Birth Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bri’asia | Ashley Hill | 2012 | Acknowledged |
| Brayden | Ashley Hill | 2013 | Acknowledged |
| “Lil Benny” | Ashley Hill | Unknown | Reported |
| Bria Malani | Marina Robinson | Unknown | Disputed |
Mothers have made public accusations regarding Bryson’s lack of financial and parental involvement. He has been described in interviews as inconsistent in his parenting responsibilities.
Employment, Career, and Net Worth
Bryson has shown interest in the entertainment industry, particularly as a music producer and manager. However, there are no verified major projects or affiliations associated with his name. His career efforts have largely been undocumented and unconfirmed.
Despite being the son of a reality television star with an estimated net worth of $14 million, Bryson’s own financial circumstances appear unstable, likely due to his legal issues and lack of steady employment.
Career Summary
| Field | Activity | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Entertainment | Music producer (unverified) | No public releases |
| Business ventures | Unconfirmed | No sustained income |
| Net worth | Undocumented | Likely below median |
Health and Half-Brother Brentt Leakes
In late 2022, Brentt Leakes suffered a stroke and was diagnosed with congestive heart failure at just 23 years old. The incident was described as shocking, especially given his young age and previously good health. He has since shown signs of recovery, though his health remains closely monitored.
NeNe Leakes publicly shared her emotional toll from the situation, indicating the simultaneous burden of caring for both sons with vastly different needs—one with health complications, the other with legal and addiction issues.
NeNe Leakes: Maternal Involvement
NeNe has made clear public statements reflecting both her unwavering love and frustration with Bryson’s challenges. She has reportedly spent tens of thousands of dollars on treatment and legal assistance for him. While she remains hopeful, she has emphasized the importance of personal responsibility in Bryson’s path to recovery.
Summary of NeNe’s Involvement
| Type of Support | Details |
|---|---|
| Financial | Covered rehab, legal fees |
| Emotional | Publicly advocated for his recovery |
| Relational | Maintains contact despite challenges |
FAQ
Who is Bryson Rashard Bryant?
The 1989-born eldest son of NeNe Leakes is noted for his legal difficulties and early reality TV appearances.
What are Bryson Bryant’s legal charges?
He was arrested several times since 2011, most recently in 2023 for fentanyl possession and lying.
Did Bryson go to jail?
No, in 2024 he accepted a plea deal that resulted in probation, fines, and drug testing instead of jail time.
How many children does Bryson have?
He is believed to have at least three children with different women, though not all paternity claims have been confirmed.
Has Bryson ever worked in entertainment?
He has expressed interest in music production but has no major public credits or projects to his name.
What was the outcome of his 2023 arrest?
He pled guilty to a misdemeanor and was sentenced to 12 months of probation and community service.
Is Bryson close to his family?
NeNe supports his troubled family relationship.
What happened to his half-brother Brentt?
Brentt suffered a stroke and congestive heart failure in 2022 at age 23 but has shown signs of recovery.
Has Bryson completed rehab?
He has entered rehab multiple times but relapsed; treatment is ongoing under court supervision.
What is his current status?
He is on probation, drug tested, and has court-ordered duties as of 2024.