Socialite Amber Ray and businessman Kennedy Rapudo have always drawn public attention for their open, glamorous relationship and high-profile family life. But recently, Rapudo offered rare insight into a more personal matter — his relationship with Amber’s teenage son, Gavin Classic, and why the boy doesn’t call him ‘dad.’
In a candid interview, Rapudo explained that while he plays a father figure role in Gavin’s life, he does not expect or demand to be addressed as ‘dad.’ His reasoning, rooted in respect and emotional awareness, paints a picture of a man choosing maturity over ego.
“Gavin’s dad is present,” Rapudo said. “For example, take my daughter Savani — I am a present father. How do you tell her to call the other guy dad and also call me dad? That would confuse a child.”
He added that Gavin’s bond with his biological father remains intact and that his approach as a step-parent is guided by understanding rather than titles.
Gavin is 15, and he spends time with his father. I have never met him. Whatever name he calls me, I am okay with that. As long as he is in my house, he is my son, but he doesn’t have to call me dad,” he clarified.
Amber Ray, whose real name is Faith Makau, is one of Kenya’s most talked-about public figures. Known for her bold personality, lavish lifestyle, and unfiltered social media posts, she’s also a devoted mother of two — Gavin, her teenage son from a past relationship, and Africanah, her daughter with Rapudo.
Amber has previously spoken about her strained relationship with Gavin’s biological father, revealing that cultural differences and lifestyle incompatibilities drove them apart.
In one interview, she noted that her ex held traditional views on gender roles, saying he believed “men should not change nappies or cook.” According to Amber, that mindset made co-parenting difficult, and they eventually went their separate ways.
Still, she often praises Rapudo for being a hands-on partner and a loving father to both children. Yet, both she and Rapudo appear intentional about not forcing Gavin to redefine his relationship with his biological dad by using new labels.
Amber Ray has also weighed in on the evolving family dynamic. While she’s proud of the relationship between Rapudo and her son, she maintains that her priority is raising Gavin in an environment of stability and love — regardless of labels.
“Rapudo has been very supportive. He’s a great man to both my kids,” she shared in a past Instagram Q&A. “I don’t force Gavin to call anyone anything. What matters is that they respect each other.”
Her words mirror Rapudo’s — a shared belief that the essence of family lies in coexistence, not control.