The happy newlyweds!

She told us back on Control that she had her own life and was going to make her own decisions. Well Janet Jackson has stayed true to those lyrics. News broke today that the R&B singer and screen gem wed her beau Qatari businessman, Wissam Al Mana. Cool, right? But get this — the couple has been married since last year!

This is a third marriage for Jackson, 46, who was previously wed to James DeBarge and René Elizondo, Jr. (Her marriage to Elizondo was initially kept a secret also.) According to ETOnline, the lovebirds released a statement saying, “The rumours regarding an extravagant wedding are simply not true. Last year we were married in a quiet, private and beautiful ceremony. We would appreciate that our privacy is respected and that we are allowed this time for celebration and joy,” the two said in their statement, signing off, With love, Wissam and Janet”

Well alrightly then. Good for them! I’m always impressed with couples who have their day, their way. Congrats to the newlyweds!

Would you consider eloping or have you eloped? Any regrets? Best decision you ever made? Sound off in the comments.

Read about more celebrity weddings and engagements here.