Comedian Chris Rock was in the spotlight recently at the 2025 Wall Street Journal Innovator Awards, where he made light-hearted jabs at his ex-wife, Malaak Compton-Rock. The 60-year-old presenter took the stage at New York City’s Museum of Modern Art on October 29th, amidst a crowd gathered to honour innovators from various industries, including singer-songwriter Billie Eilish.
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During his time on stage, Rock playfully mentioned Eilish’s philanthropic efforts, quipping about where his tour proceeds might be going. With a self-deprecating tone, he joked, “The percentage of my tour is gonna go to my ex-wife, of course.” This light-hearted humour drew chuckles from the audience, showcasing Rock’s ability to find comedy in personal situations.
Rock and Compton-Rock, who tied the knot in 1996 and share two daughters, Lola and Zahra, went their separate ways in 2014, finalising their divorce in 2016. Despite the challenges that come with a high-profile split, Rock didn’t shy away from poking fun at the financial aspects of his divorce. He even went as far as playfully recommending his ex-wife’s attorney to his friends going through similar situations.
This isn’t the first time Rock has publicly joked about the costly nature of his divorce. In a previous interview with Jimmy Kimmel in 2021, he recounted advising fellow comedian John Mulaney to enlist the services of his ex-wife’s attorney, citing his own financial outcomes post-divorce. Rock’s ability to use humour to address personal struggles demonstrates his resilience and knack for turning adversity into laughs.
Aside from his witty remarks about his divorce, Rock also had the honour of introducing industry power couple George Lucas and Mellody Hobson at the event. The duo was being recognised for their contributions to the design category, particularly their work on the upcoming Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles. Rock commended the couple for their collaborative efforts, highlighting the impact of their shared vision on the art world.
Rock’s comedic presence and ability to find humour in his own life endeared him to the audience at the Innovator Awards. Despite the challenges he’s faced in his personal life, he continues to navigate them with a resilient spirit and a comedic twist. His jokes about his ex-wife and divorce lawyer may have been lighthearted, but they also shed light on the universal experience of navigating relationships and separations in a humorous and relatable way.
As Rock continues to captivate audiences with his unique brand of comedy, his ability to find laughter in challenging situations serves as a reminder of the power of humour in dealing with life’s ups and downs. Whether on stage or in interviews, Chris Rock’s candid approach to sharing his experiences resonates with many, making him a beloved figure in the world of entertainment.