Kim Zolciak of The Real Housewives of Atlanta opens up in an exclusive new interview with Essence.
Kim talks about how Kandi is dealing with her tragic week, her thoughts on AJ, the breakup with Big Poppa (Lee Najjar) as well as her new boyfriend. She also speaks briefly on Big Poppa’s wife, saying his wife knew about her.
Below are excerpts from Kim’s new interview –
ESSENCE.COM: How is Kandi doing? Have you spoken to her?
KIM ZOLCIAK: I spoke with her mom and texted her just to let her know I’m here. I was one of the first to find out and I called the other ladies. Everybody has been fantastic but it’s unfortunate that it takes a tragedy to bring us all together. We were able to put all our stuff on the back burner and come together for Kandi. It’s not something that I ever thought would happen, no matter how tragic the situation.ESSENCE.COM: What was your interaction with A.J like?
ZOLCIAK: He actually called me last week and I never called him back, which sucks. I adored him. He was such a great guy. He was actually with Big Papa the night I got engaged. I hated that people have this bad impression of him because he had so many children. He was a great father and he was great with Riley [Kandi’s 7-year-old daughter] and he loved Kandi.ESSENCE.COM: And when is the wig line coming out?
ZOLCIAK: I’ve joined with a company called Pop Wigs who will manufacture and distribute the wigs. It’s a lot more work than I ever anticipated. I’m working on everything from trademarking to the packaging. I’m really proud of the wigs, so by December people will be able to do pre-orders and we can send them out by January.
ESSENCE.COM: So what’s the scoop? Are you or aren’t you still engaged to Big Papa?
ZOLCIAK: I am not engaged to Big Papa! I got a commitment ring last year and so when I got this new ring, I was led to believe that his divorce was final. Who gives someone a massive rock and makes this commitment if he wasn’t serious? I found out that I was still on the same merry-go-round. If there is one thing I have discovered about myself from doing this show it is that I’m just far too trusting. I’m actually dating someone new and I’m extremely happy. He’s my age, from California and cute as a button. I gave Papa almost four years of my life, so now I’m just trying to move on.ESSENCE.COM: Have you ever had any interaction with his wife?
ZOLCIAK: Never, but she knew. At the end of the day, I want someone who has the same moral values that I do. The harsh reality is when you look at your relationship after so many years and it’s not what you thought, it’s very devastating. But you know what, I’m happier than I’ve been in a long time.ESSENCE.COM: So there’s no chance you two will reconcile?
ZOLCIAK: I will never go back. When I’m done, I’m done. I have no desire to have anything further with him.
