Mario is setting the record straight about his love and respect for Black women.
During a candid conversation on Cam Newton’s Funky Friday podcast, the R&B singer addressed speculation that he dislikes Black women, which he flatly rejected.
When Newton asked directly if he had “anything against Black women,” Mario responded, “No sir, amen, no sir I don’t, never have.” From there, the “Let Me Love You” singer went deep, reflecting on how the women who raised him shaped his outlook on life, love, and faith.
“My grandmother was my hero,” Mario said. “She was the contrast in my life when it came to understanding the importance of a Black woman, the strength, the soul, her relationship with God that was unwavering. She was used and abused for her strength, but she never wavered in her character.”
Mario also spoke emotionally about his complicated relationship with his mother, Shante Hardaway, whose struggles and resilience left a lasting impact.
“I was blessed to be born from her womb because she was talented and unstoppable,” he said. “But we had a very toxic relationship because I didn’t understand her struggles. That resentment shaped how I viewed trust and relationships.”
Later in the conversation, Mario addressed online criticism about his dating choices, saying he’s been confused by accusations that he doesn’t love Black women because of his interracial relationships.
“I recently posted something about the slander I see online, about Black women not being loved based on who people decide to date,” he explained. “I don’t understand that. There are so many Black couples thriving, doing amazing things, and they don’t get that same attention.”
Mario made it clear that his bond with Black women runs deep and continues to evolve. “Black women raised me. They were the first to tell me I’m amazing, the first to make me laugh, the first to make me cry. My fans, my core supporters, they’re Black women. So I don’t even understand that question.”
In recent weeks, the singer has also taken to social media to double down on that message. Frustrated with ongoing online commentary, Mario shared a passionate post defending Black women and rejecting any claims that he disrespects them.
“I’m so tired of the Black women slander in the comments about how I don’t like Black women and how Black women aren’t loved!” he wrote on Instagram. “If you’re making these comments, I’m convinced YOU have a problem with Black women.”
He ended his statement with a heartfelt tribute. “Black women are loved and needed,” he wrote, which was accompanied by emojis emphasizing his sentiment. The post appeared shortly after his girlfriend, Esmeralda Rios, announced her pregnancy.