Last updated on: July 25, 2025
Nicki Minaj is a globally renowned rapper and singer. She is also a mother. She and her husband, Kenneth “Zoo” Petty, welcomed their first child on September 30, 2020. Nicki refers to her son as Papa Bear.
His actual name has never been revealed to the general public. Nicki prefers keeping him a private person. However, she does speak about how much she adores him. Let’s get to know Papa Bear and why he is special.
Quick Facts About Papa Bear
| Full Name | Papa Bear |
| Birthdate | September 30, 2020 |
| Occupation | Celebrity Child |
| Husband/Wife | Not Married |
| Education | N/A |
| Age | 5 years and 2 months old |
| Parents | Nicki Minaj (Mother), Kenneth Petty (Father) |
| Siblings | None |
| Children | None |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
When Was Papa Bear Born?
Papa Bear was born on September 30, 2020. He is a Libra. Libras are nice and peaceful. He is Nicki and Kenneth’s first child.
Nicki revealed that she was pregnant in July 2020. People were happy to see her become a mother. She gave birth a few months after that.
Why Is He Called “Papa Bear”?
Nicki also gave him the nickname of “Papa Bear” shortly after he was born. Prior to that, when she was pregnant, she referred to him as “Bubba.” That was a name that caught on. Nicki and her husband both use it now all the time.
They even have adorable things with his nickname printed on them. For instance, his toy car has a license plate with “Papa Bear” written on it. He also has clothes on that bear his nickname.
Nicki has mentioned that she used to consider naming him “Ninja,” but later changed her mind.
His Birthday Parties
Papa Bear’s birthday parties are grand and exciting. Nicki celebrates his birthday in innovative ways each year.
1st Birthday – The theme was Kung Fu Panda. There were balloons, a bouncy house, face painting, and lots more.
2nd Birthday – It was Minions themed. There was a slime station, an ice cream machine, and rainbow decorations.
4th Birthday (2024) – Nicki shared cute photos and videos. She posted a sweet message:
“Dear #PapaBear, Happy 4th birthday, buddy. You gave me a whole new meaning to life.”
These celebrations reveal how much Nicki loves celebrating her son.
READ ALSO: Nicki Minaj Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
How Papa Bear Changed Nicki
According to Nicki, being a mom transformed her life. She feels more grateful and calm today. She became more patient and loving.
She claims Papa Bear energizes her. Even when stressed or tired, looking at her son makes her feel better. She used to say, “What are you stressed for? Look what you’ve been blessed with.”
Nicki also claims that she gets anxious whenever she is away from him. She misses him a lot whenever she has to travel for work. She FaceTimes with him whenever she can.
Does He Appear in Public?
Nicki maintains the private lives of her kids. She rarely shows her son’s full face. She keeps the name she gave him private as well. She only shares a few glimpses of the little life.
Papa Bear occasionally featured in a Vogue photoshoot with Nicki. Sometimes, he accompanies her on tour. However, in general, Nicki maintains his life out of the limelight.
