Nick Cannon, the American comedian, actor, and television host, is opening up about his unconventional journey into fatherhood and the circumstances that led to him becoming the father of 12 children with six different women.
In a candid new interview with Vulture, Cannon revealed that he never set out to build a large family intentionally. Instead, he described the outcome as a “by-product” of trying to meet the desires of others around him, whether romantic partners or friends who wanted children.
“It was also a little bit of, like, ‘Okay, God, how did I have five kids in one year?’ Probably careless activity,” Cannon, 43, admitted during the interview. Reflecting on his evolving mindset, Cannon shared that there was a moment when he considered putting an end to his rapidly growing family.
“There was a point in time where I was just like, ‘Nah, I’m done.’ And then I was like, ‘Who am I to say that?’” he said. “It seemed like it was such an emphatic thing. I never imagined that I would have 12 kids.” Despite the surprise, Cannon expressed gratitude for his current life. “So, it’s one of those things where I love children. I love my life, and if it could keep going in the direction that it’s going, why not?”
Cannon’s first children, twins Monroe and Moroccan, were born in 2011 with his then-wife, pop icon Mariah Carey. In the years following their divorce, Cannon expanded his family with five other women: Brittany Bell, Abby De La Rosa, Alyssa Scott, Bre Tiesi, and LaNisha Cole. The We Playin’ Spades podcast host, however, admitted that it wasn’t all that simple.
The father of 12 has often spoken publicly about his love for his children and the individual bonds he shares with each of them. Still, his ever-growing family has drawn widespread attention—and some criticism—regarding how one person can effectively co-parent so many children across multiple households.
Cannon has previously said he does his best to be present in his children’s lives and makes a point to spend time with each of them. In past interviews, he has acknowledged the challenges but maintains that he is committed to his role as a father.
With his latest comments, Cannon offers rare self-awareness about how his large family came to be, rooted not in a master plan but in a series of emotional decisions and life circumstances. Still, he says he wouldn’t change a thing.