Nick Cannon Reveals His 12 Children Were a 'Trauma Response' to Mariah Carey Divorce

In a candid and deeply personal revelation, Nick Cannon has opened up about the profound reasons behind his decision to welcome 12 children with six different women, admitting that his journey into fatherhood was, in part, a "trauma response" following his divorce from pop superstar Mariah Carey.

The multi-talented entertainer, known for his prolific career and equally prolific family, shared his insights during an appearance on "The Art of Facts" podcast.

Cannon explained that the dissolution of his marriage to Carey in 2016, with whom he shares 13-year-old twins Moroccan and Monroe, left a significant void in his life. "I was taught that you're supposed to be married and have kids," he confessed, articulating the societal expectations he felt he had to fulfill.

Cannon elaborated that the heartbreak and the breakdown of his traditional family unit pushed him towards a different path.

"I started having kids as a trauma response, I believe, because I was like, 'Oh, I'm gonna show you the family that I can create,'" he stated, reflecting on a period where he felt a compelling need to redefine his sense of family and belonging.

The 43-year-old further discussed how societal norms and the pressure to conform to a conventional family structure impacted him.

He acknowledged that while his multiple relationships and children might appear unconventional, for him, it was a way to cope and build a new definition of family after the initial dream of a lifelong partnership with Carey ended. He emphasized that he views each of his children as a blessing and a testament to his love, regardless of the circumstances of their birth.

This isn't the first time Cannon has spoken about the complexities of his large family.

He has consistently expressed his commitment to all his children, dedicating himself to being present in their lives and fostering a loving environment. His honesty provides a rare glimpse into the emotional aftermath of a high-profile divorce and how individuals process and respond to significant life changes, often in ways that defy conventional expectations.

Cannon's children include Moroccan and Monroe with Mariah Carey; Golden Sagon, Powerful Queen, and Rise Messiah with Brittany Bell; Zion Mixolydian and Zillion Heir with Abby De La Rosa; Legendary Love with Bre Tiesi; Onyx Ice Cole with LaNisha Cole; and Halo Marie with Alyssa Scott.

He also shared son Zen with Alyssa Scott, who tragically passed away from brain cancer at five months old in 2021. His recent candid confession adds another layer of understanding to his unique and ever-expanding family dynamic.