5 Shocking Ways Thomas Rhett’s Wife, Lauren Akins, Is More Than Just A Country Star’s Muse
Lauren Akins: A Comprehensive Biography and Family Profile
Lauren Akins, born Lauren Gregory, has an inspiring personal and professional history that predates her life as a country music wife. She and Thomas Rhett (Thomas Rhett Akins Jr.) are the definition of a long-term love story, having known each other since first grade. They briefly dated in high school, and after a period of separation and almost marrying other people, they finally reconnected and married in 2012, a union that has lasted over a decade.- Full Name: Lauren Gregory Akins (née Gregory)
- Date of Birth: November 8, 1989
- Place of Birth: Nashville, Tennessee
- Education: University of Tennessee (UT)
- Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Graduated 2012
- Spouse: Thomas Rhett Akins Jr. (Married 2012)
- Children: Four Daughters (Willa Gray, Ada James, Lennon Love, Lillie Carolina), Expecting Fifth Child in 2026
- Known For: Author, Podcaster, Philanthropist, Vice Chair of Love One International
- Book: Live in Love: Growing Together Through Life's Changes (New York Times Bestseller)
The couple's journey to parenthood began with the adoption of their oldest daughter, Willa Gray, from Uganda in 2017. Their family quickly grew with the birth of Ada James later that same year, followed by Lennon Love in 2020, and Lillie Carolina in 2022. The 2025 announcement of Baby No. 5 has only added to the excitement surrounding this dynamic and loving family unit.
The Unexpected Career Path: From Nursing to Bestselling Author
Many fans know Lauren Akins for her presence alongside her husband, but her professional background is both surprising and deeply impactful. Before transitioning into her current roles, Akins earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee in 2012. Her initial career was in healthcare, a profession that perfectly aligns with her innate desire to help others and which has heavily influenced her later philanthropic endeavors.Her creative career took off with the release of her memoir, Live in Love: Growing Together Through Life's Changes. The book, which became a New York Times Bestseller, offers an honest look at her life, including the challenges of being married to a rapidly rising country music star and the strains that success put on their relationship in the early days of Thomas Rhett's career in 2013. The memoir provides a raw, authentic narrative that resonated with millions, showing that even seemingly 'perfect couples' face real-life struggles.
Following the success of her book, Akins launched a seasonal podcast, also titled Live in Love with Lauren Akins. The podcast features meaningful conversations with various guests, including her husband and friends like Annie F. Downs, focusing on themes of faith, family, and what it truly means to "live in love" through life’s inevitable changes.
The Deep Commitment to Philanthropy: A Global Mission
Lauren Akins's true passion and most extensive body of work lie in her tireless efforts in international philanthropy, which is a core pillar of her public identity. Her commitment began with the organization 147 Million Orphans, which introduced her to the people and needs of Uganda.Today, Akins serves as the Vice Chair of Love One International, a non-profit organization that provides medical care and support to critically ill children in Uganda. Her dedication to the cause is deeply personal, stemming from the adoption of her daughter, Willa Gray, from the country. This work is not just a side project; it is a mission that she and Thomas Rhett have woven into the fabric of their family life.
To further support the organization, Akins launched her own fine jewelry line, Lauren Akins X Ladybird. The sales from this collection directly benefit Love One International, turning her creative and entrepreneurial spirit into tangible support for the children in need. This blend of business and charity showcases her ability to leverage her platform for global good.
Thomas Rhett’s Muse: The Songs Inspired by Lauren
While Lauren Akins is a powerhouse in her own right, her relationship with Thomas Rhett remains a central point of interest for fans of country music. She is, famously, the muse for some of his biggest and most heartfelt hits. The most notable example is the 2015 smash hit, "Die A Happy Man," a song that explicitly references their relationship and has become one of the genre's most iconic love songs.Other songs that draw inspiration from their life together and their growing family include "Life Changes," which details their journey from high school sweethearts to parents of four, and "Look What God Gave Her," a track that celebrates her beauty and strength. Even Thomas Rhett's father, the successful songwriter Rhett Akins, has watched their love story unfold, providing a unique legacy within the Nashville country music community. Their willingness to share their life—the highs and the lows—through music and memoir is what makes their story so relatable and enduring to millions of fans globally.
What’s Next for the Akins-Rhett Family in 2026?
With the announcement of baby number five, the Akins-Rhett household is preparing for another exciting chapter. The current focus is on the impending arrival in early 2026, with the four "big sisters"—Willa Gray, Ada James, Lennon Love, and Lillie Carolina—eagerly awaiting their new sibling.While the family has chosen to keep the baby's gender a surprise until the birth, the speculation among fans is rampant. Regardless of whether they welcome a fifth daughter or their first son, the arrival will undoubtedly be a major event. Lauren Akins continues to balance her role as a mother with her philanthropic duties, ensuring that her work with Love One International remains a priority even amidst the beautiful chaos of a new baby. Her journey is a testament to living a life of purpose, proving that being a celebrity spouse can be a platform for profound and meaningful change.
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