Daphnee Duplaix’s Real-Life Journey: Love, Family, and Stardom
Daphnee Duplaix, widely recognized for her captivating role as Nicole Dupri on the hit soap opera Beyond the Gates, has long intrigued fans with her on-screen charisma and off-screen mysteries. From her early days as a Playboy model to her rise as a daytime TV star, Duplaix’s journey is one of resilience, romance, and reinvention. But what about her personal life? Is she still married? Who is the man behind her real-life love story? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Daphnee Duplaix.
A Star’s Beginnings
Before she became a household name, Duplaix’s career kicked off with a small role in the 1996 film Striptease. Her striking presence soon caught the attention of Playboy, where she was crowned Playmate of the Month in July 1997. This catapulted her into the spotlight, paving the way for her transition to acting. In 2004, she made her daytime debut as Valerie Davis on Passions and later appeared briefly as Rachel Ganon on One Life to Live. Despite these roles, it wasn’t until 2024 that Duplaix truly shone, captivating audiences as Nicole Dupri Richardson in Beyond the Gates. Her on-screen romance with Ted has left fans swooning—and curious about her real-life love story.
A Family Built on Love
Duplaix’s personal life is as compelling as her professional one. She was first married to Ron Samuel, former editor-in-chief of Unleash magazine. Together, they welcomed three sons: twins Jaylen and Sebastian, born in 2003, and Jackson Ron Samuel, born in 2007. Creativity seems to run in the family—Jaylen has carved out a path as a music artist under the name Jas on SoundCloud, while Sebastian is navigating college life. Jackson, the youngest, recently celebrated his 18th birthday, a milestone that underscores how quickly time flies.
However, Duplaix’s marriage to Samuel didn’t stand the test of time, and the couple eventually divorced. Adding a twist to their story, Samuel made headlines in 2017 when he was reportedly charged with smuggling ecstasy through models, according to LA Daily News. Despite this chapter’s challenges, Duplaix emerged stronger, ready for a new beginning.
A Second Chance at Love
In 2014, Duplaix found love again when she married Grady Hibberg. The couple welcomed their daughter, Bellamy Grace, in 2015, and their family quickly became a picture of joy. Duplaix often shared heartwarming glimpses of their life on Instagram, from adorable pregnancy photos to playful family moments captured by Grady’s skilled photography. Grady proved to be a devoted stepfather to Duplaix’s sons, with scenes of snowman-building and holiday cheer showcasing their tight-knit bond. In 2017, Duplaix posted wedding photos with the caption, “When year three is better than day one,” hinting at a blissful marriage.
Yet, recent changes have sparked speculation among fans. Grady’s presence on Duplaix’s Instagram has dwindled, with his last appearance in a 2019 Father’s Day post and a brief glimpse during Christmas 2020. Notably, Duplaix dropped “Hibberg” from her Instagram handle, reverting to simply Daphnee Duplaix. While there’s no official word of a divorce, these subtle shifts have fueled rumors. Has the couple quietly parted ways, or is Duplaix simply keeping her love life private? It’s also possible that Grady prefers to stay out of the spotlight, letting Duplaix shine.
Living Life on Her Terms
Regardless of her relationship status, one thing is clear: Daphnee Duplaix is thriving. As a proud mother of four and a talented actress, she continues to inspire fans with her strength and authenticity. Her portrayal of Nicole Dupri on Beyond the Gates has solidified her place in daytime television, and her journey—marked by love, loss, and new beginnings—resonates with audiences worldwide.
What do you think of Daphnee Duplaix’s character on Beyond the Gates? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned for more updates on this remarkable star’s life and career.
