AceShowbiz - Reality TV star NeNe Leakes has ignited controversy after expressing that she believes cheating can be done "with respect." In a recent Instagram Live conversation with Carlos King, Leakes explained her stance.

"If I'm in Georgia and you're in San Francisco for the weekend, what you don't know won't hurt you," she said. "But if you're going to cheat, do it respectfully. I don't like people who are disrespectful."

Leakes elaborated on disrespectful cheating, stating that it includes lying to the "side piece," refusing to set boundaries (such as staying a distance away if encountered in public), and allowing the side piece to approach the main partner.

King and Leakes also emphasized that the side piece should refrain from posting on social media about the man or anything that could hint at his involvement.

In a subsequent Instagram Story, Leakes advised women who identify as side pieces to prioritize their self-esteem. "I think you need to love yourself just a little bit more! Me...I am number 1 or NO number at all."

Leakes' comments have drawn mixed reactions. Some argue that cheating and respect are mutually exclusive concepts, while others believe there can be mitigating circumstances.

Leakes herself has faced scrutiny, as in 2022, she was accused of being a "homewrecker" in the marriage of her then-boyfriend, Nyonisela Sioh. Malomine Tehmeh-Sioh, Sioh's estranged wife, filed a $100,000 lawsuit against Leakes, alleging that she had an affair with Sioh while they were still married. Sioh filed for divorce months later.

Leakes denied the allegations, and she and Sioh remained in a relationship. While they have been spotted together recently, their relationship status remains unclear.