Nick Cannon, the comedian and TV personality, has stirred up quite the conversation after revealing on a podcast that he actively encourages his 15-year-old son to date, while his twin sister faces a different set of rules. Appearing on the TMZ podcast on May 2, Cannon, who shares the twins with ex-wife Mariah Carey, candidly admitted that his daughter Monroe will "always be his baby."
Cannon, 45, found himself under scrutiny after a clip from the podcast episode went viral. In it, he talks about the different dating rules for his twins, Moroccan and Monroe. "My son [Moroccan] has been dating, and I’ve allowed it, I encouraged it," he shared. But when pressed about his daughter, Cannon's response was a firm "No, absolutely not."
“I know I get in trouble a lot ‘cause I say things with my chest," Cannon confessed, "But there is a difference when parenting a son and then when parenting a daughter.”
While acknowledging the "double standard" in his parenting style, Cannon explained he feels a stronger need to protect his daughter. He pointed out that there are certain "types of individuals" he wants to shield Monroe from. Despite this, Cannon has had open discussions with Monroe, setting ground rules for when and how she can date.
Cannon shared that he and Monroe have reached an understanding: if she can explain what will happen on her dates, then she can go – with her brother tagging along. This open dialogue, he hopes, will ensure Monroe feels comfortable discussing anything with him.
Amid the controversy, Cannon took to Instagram to celebrate the twins' 15th birthday, posting a heartfelt message: "Got two 15-year-olds on my hands now!!!! Happy Birthday to my first firstborns. I thank God and you for allowing me to be your Dad! I love you Roc and Roe! Happy Birthday!" With 12 children to his name, Cannon’s unique approach to parenting continues to spark interest and debate.