5 Shocking Facts About Tori Kelly's Husband, André Murillo, Including Their New Baby And Life-Threatening Health Scare

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As of December 2025, the private life of Grammy-winning singer Tori Kelly has been thrust back into the spotlight following a major life event: the birth of her first child. Her husband, the German-American professional basketball player André Murillo, has been her steadfast rock through career highs, a terrifying health crisis, and now, the joy of parenthood. The couple, known for keeping their relationship out of the relentless glare of the public eye, recently shared the exciting news that has delighted fans globally and cemented their status as one of music’s most supportive power couples. André Murillo is far more than just "Tori Kelly's husband"; he is a former athlete with a compelling personal story of faith, redemption, and a commitment to ministry. Their journey together, which began with a quiet romance in 2016, has recently included a life-altering medical emergency for Kelly and the beautiful culmination of their marriage with the arrival of their son. This article reveals the most crucial and up-to-date facts about the man who stands beside the celebrated singer.

André Murillo: Complete Biography and Profile

André Murillo is a German-American former professional basketball player who gained significant public attention after marrying singer-songwriter Tori Kelly. His life is marked by a dedication to athletics, education, and his Christian faith, which he has openly shared.

  • Full Name: André Murillo
  • Nationality: German-American
  • Profession: Former Professional Basketball Player, Athlete, Ministry Focus
  • College: Biola University (La Mirada, California)
  • College Career: Played as a Power Forward; earned NAIA All-American Honorable Mention and All-GSAC team honors in the 2013-2014 season.
  • Education: Majored in Biblical Studies at Biola University.
  • High School: El Toro High School (Graduated 2008).
  • Wife: Tori Kelly (m. May 2018)
  • Children: Zayden Michael Murillo (Son, born November 2025)
  • Dating Start: 2016
  • Engagement: September 2017
  • Personal Struggle: Has openly discussed his struggles with drug use after college and his subsequent path to redemption and faith.

The Birth of Zayden Michael Murillo: Their Newest Chapter

In the most significant and recent update to their family life, Tori Kelly and André Murillo welcomed their first child, a son named Zayden Michael Murillo, on November 11, 2025. This joyous news marks a beautiful milestone for the couple, who have been married since 2018. The announcement was shared with the world via social media, allowing fans a small, intimate glimpse into their new life as parents.

The arrival of Zayden Michael Murillo is the culmination of a year that has been both challenging and creatively fulfilling for the singer. Tori Kelly released her self-titled album, *Tori*, in April 2024, demonstrating her professional resilience. Murillo has been a constant presence and source of strength for Kelly, especially as they navigated her serious health issues just a year prior. The couple also shares two dogs, Frodo and Dobby, who are now big brothers to the newest family member.

André’s Unwavering Support During Tori Kelly’s Blood Clot Scare

One of the most defining moments of their marriage—and a testament to Murillo's supportive nature—was the terrifying health scare Tori Kelly faced in July 2023. The singer was rushed to the hospital after losing consciousness and was subsequently treated in the ICU for life-threatening blood clots found around her vital organs.

During this critical time, André Murillo became the primary source of updates for fans and the media, providing reassurance and heartfelt messages about his wife's condition. He used his platform to ask for prayers and expressed the emotional toll the event took on their family. His public statements highlighted his role as a protective and caring husband, demonstrating a deep commitment to her well-being.

Kelly has since spoken openly about how the incident changed her perspective on life, calling it "fragile," and how it fueled her determination to continue making music. She has repeatedly stated that she is feeling "great" and grateful for her health, which allowed her to return to her passion and complete her album.

From Basketball Court to Biblical Studies: André Murillo’s Career and Faith

Before his marriage to a Grammy-winning artist, André Murillo was carving out his own path in the world of professional sports and faith. He is a German-American athlete who played basketball at the collegiate level for Biola University, where he excelled as a power forward. His time at Biola was not just about athletics; he pursued a major in Biblical Studies with the expressed goal of entering a career in ministry alongside professional basketball.

Murillo's journey has been one of public redemption. He has been candid about a difficult period after his college career where he struggled with drug use. His openness about overcoming these struggles and finding redemption through his faith is a significant part of his public identity, aligning with his educational background and his desire to enter ministry. This personal history gives depth to his character and explains the strong Christian faith that he and Tori Kelly share, which is a foundational element of their relationship.

A Private Romance: Tori Kelly and André Murillo Relationship Timeline

Tori Kelly and André Murillo have successfully maintained a relatively private relationship, a rarity for a celebrity couple. Their romance began quietly in 2016. After a year of dating, Murillo proposed in September 2017. The couple shared the news with a simple, heartfelt photo of Kelly's engagement ring, letting their fans know they were taking the next step.

They tied the knot in a beautiful, intimate ceremony in May 2018. Their wedding, like their relationship, was kept mostly private, featuring a stunning outdoor setting that reflected their personal styles. Kelly often credits Murillo with being her biggest supporter, both personally and professionally. He is frequently seen at her performances, and his encouragement was crucial during her recovery and the creation of her latest music. The arrival of Zayden Michael Murillo in late 2025 is the most recent and exciting chapter in their evolving love story.

tori kelly husband
tori kelly husband

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