Legendary musician Stevie Wonder’s former fiancée, Carmen Efferson, has reportedly been left shocked by his decision to seek her eviction from a Los Angeles home she has lived in for nearly four decades.
According to a report by TMZ, a source close to Efferson said she was surprised by the lawsuit, particularly given the long history she shares with the singer. The source claimed Efferson had believed Wonder promised her the property, although she never received a deed transferring ownership to her.
Efferson has reportedly lived in the house since 1988, making it her home for almost 40 years. During that time, she is said to have also accommodated her late mother at the property until her death.
The two reportedly had an on-and-off romantic relationship dating back to the 1980s. During their time together, Wonder also helped Efferson secure opportunities in the music industry, according to sources cited by TMZ.
However, the long-standing arrangement has now turned into a legal dispute, with Wonder seeking to have Efferson leave the property.
Court documents cited by TMZ indicate that Wonder filed an eviction lawsuit, arguing that Efferson had been living in the home rent-free and was only responsible for paying utility bills.
The dispute reportedly escalated after Efferson allegedly refused to allow people onto the property for insurance-related purposes.
According to the report, Wonder had given Efferson until August 27 to vacate the property, but she had not moved out by the time the dispute was reported.
In an alleged email to Wonder’s legal team, Efferson reportedly described the attorneys as “racist cold-blooded.” The lawyers rejected the accusation, according to TMZ.
The report also noted that online images of the property suggested it appeared worn and might require upgrades, although the condition of the house has not been independently verified.
The dispute places a decades-long personal relationship in the spotlight, with questions surrounding the history of the living arrangement and the alleged promise of ownership now emerging alongside the legal proceedings.
While Efferson is reportedly relying on her understanding of Wonder’s earlier assurances, the absence of a deed could be significant in determining the ownership status of the property. The outcome will depend on the legal claims and evidence presented as the case proceeds.
