Chris Rock Credits Infidelity and Pornography for Ending His Marriage

Comedian Chris Rock has identified specific personal habits as the primary causes for the end of his 18 year marriage.

Rock spoke to GQ for the 2026 Men of the Year issue about his relationship with Malaak Compton Rock. He stated that he made several mistakes during their time together, including infidelity and a failure to listen. The 61 year old actor described his performance as a husband in a blunt statement: “I was not a great husband.”

Rock also disclosed that excessive pornography use contributed to the breakdown of the relationship. He noted that he has since quit the habit and has not returned to it in five or six years. He did not attempt to excuse his behavior, calling it a necessary process rather than a point of pride. “It’s not anything I’m proud of, but it’s something I had to go through,” he said.

The comedian compared his experience to a superhero learning the limits of their abilities. Rock said that some individuals must make errors and face consequences before realizing they are not invincible. He described the outcome as a humbling lesson. “I tested my powers. I definitely realized I wasn’t God or anywhere near him, and I was severely humbled, as I should have been,” he told the magazine.

Rock and Compton Rock married in 1996 and have two daughters, Lola and Zahra. The couple announced their separation in December 2014. Their divorce was finalized in 2016. Compton Rock described the decision at the time as one reached after much contemplation. The former spouses continued to share family events, including Zahra’s graduation from the University of Southern California in May.

Since the divorce, Rock dated actress Megalyn Echikunwoke for several years. He was also linked to Carmen Ejogo and Lake Bell. He began a relationship with his current girlfriend, Simone Henault, in March. Rock has continued his career in comedy and film while offering this new perspective on his past choices.