Former 'Jane Doe' Reclaims Identity After R. Kelly Abuse

Reshona Landfair, once known only as 'Jane Doe,' speaks out about decades of trauma and healing.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Reshona Landfair, now 41, is speaking publicly for the first time about the abuse she suffered at the hands of R. Kelly, beginning when she was just 13 years old. Landfair, who was previously known only as 'Jane Doe,' has written a memoir detailing her experience and launched a nonprofit to support other survivors of sexual abuse.

Why it matters

Landfair's story sheds light on the long-lasting impact of sexual abuse, especially when the perpetrator is a powerful public figure. Her decision to reclaim her identity and speak out aims to empower other survivors to break their silence and confront the shame and trauma they've endured.

The details

Landfair was introduced to R. Kelly by her aunt, singer Sparkle, when she was 13 years old. Landfair herself was a young singer pursuing a music career. The abuse began when she was 14, and a videotape documenting the abuse was recorded when she was 17. For years, Landfair was publicly known only as 'Jane Doe,' a label that followed her into adulthood. During R. Kelly's 2008 trial in Chicago, Landfair testified anonymously, citing fear and Kelly's power in the music industry. Landfair says the impact of the abuse has stayed with her for decades, but her healing process has involved prayer, forgiveness, and self-reflection.

  • Landfair was introduced to R. Kelly when she was 13 years old.
  • A videotape documenting the abuse was recorded when Landfair was 17 years old.
  • Landfair testified anonymously during R. Kelly's 2008 trial in Chicago.

The players

Reshona Landfair

A 41-year-old woman who was abused by R. Kelly starting when she was a minor, and is now speaking out publicly for the first time to reclaim her identity and share her story.

R. Kelly

A powerful figure in the music industry who abused Reshona Landfair when she was a teenager.

Sparkle

Landfair's aunt, who was a singer signed to R. Kelly's label and introduced Landfair to him when she was 13 years old.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“My son was the biggest reason I decided to write the book. Nobody is more qualified to speak on my experience more than I am. I wanted him to have the true narrative of what really took place.”

— Reshona Landfair (fox32chicago.com)

“There is so much more to me than what happened to me when I was 14 years old. I'm a mother, I'm a friend, I'm a co-worker. I have a beautiful spirit. In order for me to get my power back, I really had to set the record straight and truly become Reshona Landfair.”

— Reshona Landfair (fox32chicago.com)

“People were operating out of fear or not wanting to lose their jobs. He held a lot of power in the community and the industry.”

— Reshona Landfair (fox32chicago.com)

What’s next

Attorneys for R. Kelly have stated they have not received an advanced copy of Landfair's memoir, 'Who's Watching Shorty?: Reclaiming Myself from the Shame of R. Kelly's Abuse,' which is set to be released soon.

The takeaway

Reshona Landfair's decision to speak out and reclaim her identity after decades of trauma and silence highlights the importance of supporting survivors of sexual abuse, especially when the perpetrator is a powerful public figure. Her story aims to empower others to confront the shame and stigma surrounding sexual abuse and seek healing through accountability and community.