Meet Melika Payne: All About the Wife of Martin Star Carl Anthony Payne II

Have you ever wondered who the woman standing beside Martin star Carl Anthony Payne II has been throughout all these years? That woman is Melika Payne, a loving wife, a mother, and a woman with a story worth knowing. While Carl became famous as Cole on Martin and Cockroach on The Cosby Show, Melika quietly built a beautiful life with him away from the spotlight.

In this article, we will take a close look at Melika’s life. We will learn about her early days, her love story with Carl, her family, and more. Get ready to discover all about the woman who has been by Carl’s side for more than 30 years!

Melika Payne Quick Bio

Who Is Melika Payne?

Melika Payne, whose full name is Melika Michem Williams Payne, was born on April 10, 1969, in Los Angeles, California. That means in 2025, she is 56 years old. Melika is African-American, and she grew up in California surrounded by the world of entertainment.

Melika became known because of her connection to two famous men — first Bobby Brown, and then Carl Anthony Payne II. But there is so much more to her than that. She is a woman who has shown strength, love, and dedication in everything she does.

Melika Payne’s Early Life

Melika grew up in Los Angeles, where the entertainment world is all around. From a young age, she loved acting and the performing arts. She dreamed of one day being part of that world. Melika even went on to study Theater Arts in college.

But life had other plans. Melika became a mom when she was still a teenager. This changed everything for her. Even though college became harder, Melika stayed strong and focused on giving her son the best life she could.

Melika Payne and Bobby Brown

Before she met Carl, Melika was in a relationship with Bobby Brown, the famous R&B singer. They started dating when they were both very young, in 1984. They were only 17 years old when they had their son, Landon Brown, in 1986.

Melika and Bobby’s relationship didn’t last. They broke up in 1987. But they stayed on good terms, so they could both be there for Landon. Bobby remained in his son’s life, and Melika made sure Landon had the love and support he needed.

Meet Landon Brown, Melika’s Son With Bobby Brown

Landon Brown was born on June 22, 1986, in Los Angeles. He grew up with two families — his mom’s and his dad’s. Landon often talks about how Bobby Brown, his dad, would take him on amazing trips and share his rock star life with him. Can you imagine having your 7th birthday in Japan like Landon did?

Landon also became close to Carl Payne when his mom married him. In fact, by the time he was 6, Landon started calling Carl his “other dad.” This shows just how strong their family bond is. Today, Landon works in music and acting, following in the footsteps of both his father and his stepfather.

How Melika Met Carl Anthony Payne II

After her relationship with Bobby ended, Melika’s life took a beautiful turn. She met Carl Anthony Payne II in 1992. Carl was already famous by then, playing funny and loved characters on shows like Martin.

The two met while Carl was working on Martin, and they clicked right away. Their romance was fast but real. They got married in December 1992, just four months after they met. Carl not only became Melika’s husband but also stepped into the role of a loving stepfather to Landon.

Melika and Carl’s Marriage Journey

Melika and Carl have now been married for over 32 years. That is not easy, especially in Hollywood, where many marriages don’t last. Their marriage has had happy times and tough moments. But through it all, they have stayed together and kept their family strong.

One of the things that makes their marriage special is how they worked through challenges. We’ll explore that in more detail later in this article. For now, just know that Melika and Carl’s story is one of real love, patience, and teamwork.

The Divorce That Never Happened

Even strong couples like Melika Payne and Carl have tough times. In 2012, after 20 years of marriage, Melika filed for divorce. She said there were “irreconcilable differences.” She even asked for custody of their children.

But here’s the beautiful part — they didn’t give up. Melika later changed her mind and withdrew the divorce papers. The couple worked through their problems and chose love over separation. They showed that even when things get hard, it’s possible to find your way back together.

Carl once shared that learning how to “fight the right way” helped save their marriage. He said it’s all about communication and knowing when to let small things go. That’s advice we can all learn from!

Melika and Carl’s Children

Melika and Carl have two sons together: Malek Payne and Carl Anthony Payne III. Along with Landon, they raised a blended family full of love and support.

Carl has often said how proud he is of all his children. In fact, in 2019, he wrote a sweet post calling Melika “the mother of our four amazing sons.” This showed just how much he values their family life.

Their kids grew up seeing what true teamwork looks like. They learned from their parents’ example of sticking together, even when life isn’t easy.

Melika Payne’s Life Today

These days, Melika enjoys a quieter, more private life. She lives in Northridge, California, with her family. Unlike many people linked to Hollywood, she stays out of the spotlight.

Melika owns a small business called Feisty Boutique, where she shares her love for fashion. She also worked for nearly 20 years at Health Net, showing that she’s always been hardworking and focused.

In her free time, Melika enjoys simple things like bike riding and staying active. She believes in living a healthy life, and she inspires others around her to do the same.

Melika Payne’s Net Worth

Many people are curious about how much Melika Payne is worth. Thanks to her years of hard work and business ventures, her net worth is estimated at around $1 million.

Her husband, Carl, has also built a solid career. His net worth is said to be about the same, around $1 million. Together, they’ve created a comfortable life for their family.

It’s clear that Melika’s success comes not just from who she married, but from her own strength, talent, and smart choices.

Does Melika Payne Use Social Media?

One thing that makes Melika special is how she keeps her private life private. You won’t see her posting on social media for attention. Her Instagram account is private, and her Facebook hasn’t been active for years.

She focuses on what matters most — her family, her health, and her happiness. And that’s something many fans admire about her.

Melika’s simple, grounded lifestyle shows that you don’t need to be in the spotlight to live a meaningful, successful life.

Why Melika Payne’s Story Inspires Many

The story of Melika Payne inspires so many people because it’s about strength and love. She became a mom at 17, but she didn’t let that stop her from building a good life. She worked hard, raised a blended family, and stayed strong through ups and downs.

Her long marriage to Carl shows that with patience and teamwork, love can last. Even when things got hard, they found a way to stay together and grow.

Melika’s life reminds us that what matters most is family, kindness, and staying true to yourself.

Final Thoughts

Now you know the beautiful story of Melika Payne, the woman behind Martin star Carl Anthony Payne II. From young love and challenges to family and success, Melika’s journey is one of strength and heart.

Her story teaches us that fame isn’t everything. What really counts is how you care for the people you love and how you face life’s ups and downs.

(FAQs)

Did Melika Payne really have a child with Bobby Brown?

Yes! Melika Payne had a son, Landon Brown, with Bobby Brown when they were both just 17 years old.

Is Melika Payne really Carl Anthony Payne II’s wife?

Yes! Melika Payne and Carl Anthony Payne II have been married since 1992 — over 32 years in Hollywood, which is rare!

How many kids does Melika Payne have?

Melika has three sons — one with Bobby Brown (Landon) and two with Carl (Malek and Carl Anthony Payne III).

What is Melika Payne’s age and birthday?

Melika Payne was born on April 10, 1969, which makes her 56 years old in 2025.

What is Melika Payne’s net worth or job?

Melika’s net worth is about $1 million. She runs her own boutique and has worked in sales for nearly 20 years!