The Story Behind Simone Biles’ Adoption: What Fans Need to Know
As fans cheer for Simone Biles at the Paris Olympics, many are curious about her family background and whether she is adopted. Here’s a look into the Olympian’s adoption story and her biological parents.
Is Simone Biles Adopted?
Yes, Simone Biles is adopted by her grandparents, Ron and Nellie Biles. They legally adopted Simone and her younger sister, Adria, in 2001 when Simone was six years old.
Simone Biles’ Adoption Story
In a July 2016 interview with Texas Monthly, Simone shared the touching conversation she had with Nellie about becoming their legal daughter. At the time, the siblings were living with their grandparents in Spring, Texas, and referred to them as “Grandpa” and “Grandma.”
Nellie told Simone and Adria that they could choose to call them “Mom” and “Dad” if they wanted. Simone practiced saying “Mom, Dad” in the mirror and, upon deciding to address Nellie as “Mom,” received a warm affirmation from her.
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During her 2017 appearance on Dancing With the Stars, Simone praised her adoptive parents, saying, “My parents saved me. They’ve set huge examples of how to treat other people, and they’ve been there to support me since day one. There’s nothing I could say to them to thank them enough.”
Who Are Simone Biles’ Biological Parents?
Simone’s biological mother, Shanon Biles, gave birth to her on March 14, 1997, in Columbus, Ohio. Simone is the third of Shanon’s four children. Her biological father, Kelvin Clemons, was a teenager when he met Shanon, and both struggled with addiction issues. Kelvin was not involved in Simone’s early life, and Shanon was unable to care for her children due to her struggles.
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Simone Biles’ Time in Foster Care
At the age of three, Simone and her siblings were placed in foster care due to Shanon’s addiction issues. Ron and Nellie Biles stepped in, bringing Simone and Adria into their home in Spring, Texas. Ron expressed his readiness to care for the children when contacted by a social worker.
The adoption process took three years due to Shanon’s parental rights. Once she was deemed unfit to care for the girls, Simone and her sister were available for adoption, and Ron and Nellie legally adopted them.
Simone reflected on her adoption, saying in 2016, “When I was younger, I thought every kid was adopted. I didn’t understand why people made it such a big deal. To me it’s just normal.” She expressed curiosity about her biological mother’s decisions but felt fulfilled with her adoptive family, saying, “I have everything I need so there are no blanks left unfilled.”
Current Status of Simone Biles’ Biological Parents
Simone has limited contact with her biological mother and no contact with her biological father. Shanon Biles has shared that their interactions are brief and focused on expressing pride and support for Simone’s achievements. Shanon respects the bond Simone has with her adoptive parents and doesn’t wish to interfere.
Kelvin Clemons, although not in touch with Simone, has followed her success from afar. Shanon reported that he was watching Simone’s triumphs during the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and expressed pride in her accomplishments.
Simone Biles’ story is a testament to the strength and love of her adoptive family, who have played a crucial role in her remarkable journey to becoming one of the most decorated gymnasts in history.