*Nick Cannon has transformed his approach to dating, influenced by his role as a father to 12 children, including five daughters.
In a conversation with Extra’s Mona Kosar Abdi about his new late-night show, the 44-year-old opened up about his past as a “player” and his desire to guide his daughters differently, PEOPLE reports.
“When you have five daughters and you’re like, ‘All right, I at least want to be able to be true and honest,’” he said, hoping they “learn from my mistakes and not date people like their dad.”
Cannon’s children include twins Moroccan and Monroe with ex-wife Mariah Carey; sons Golden Sagon, Rise Messiah, and daughter Powerful Queen with Brittany Bell; twins Zion Mixolydian, Zillion Heir, and daughter Beautiful Zeppelin with Abby De La Rosa; son Legendary Love with Bre Tiesi; daughter Onyx Ice Cole with LaNisha Cole; and son Zen (who passed away in 2021) and daughter Halo Marie with Alyssa Scott. Despite his large family, Cannon told PEOPLE in March he’s “pressing hold” on more children, saying, “I’m having so much fun in this space right now, and the way my bank account is set up, I’m going to press hold on this 12 for right now.”
Reflecting on his “nontraditional, unorthodox” parenting at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture, Cannon emphasized his unconditional love for his children. “I love my kids unconditionally, and there’s nothing more important than my children,” he shared.
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He believes his kids are “surrounded with love,” despite public scrutiny, and hopes they’ll lead open, loving lives. “It’s the proof is in the pudding, so we’re gonna see,” Cannon added.
He also highlighted the unique bond of his twins, noting, “Twins are best friends. Friends out the gate.”
Cannon described how they “parent each other” and maintain a strong balance, supporting one another uniquely. Through fatherhood, the singer/actor aims to redefine what it means to be a present, loving dad.
Check out what Nick had to say about fatherhood and his daughters in the clip below.
