**Chris Rock Reflects on His Marital Mistakes in Candid Interview**
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Chris Rock has opened up about the challenges that contributed to the dissolution of his marriage to Malaak Compton-Rock, revealing insights into his past mistakes and personal growth. The renowned comedian attended a screening of his new film, *Misty Green*, during the BFI London Film Festival on 12 October 2026, where he shared his reflections in an accompanying interview with *GQ*.


In a compelling discussion with the magazine, Rock, now 61, candidly addressed the issues that led to the end of his nearly two-decade-long marriage. The couple, who have two daughters, Zahra Savannah and Lola Simon, parted ways in 2014, finalising their divorce two years later.
“I was not a great husband,” Rock admitted. “I watched a lot of porn.” He noted that this behaviour transformed over time, stating, “I don’t watch porn anymore. I haven’t watched porn in five, six years.” This confession is part of a broader acknowledgment of his past actions that he believes contributed to his marriage’s breakdown.
However, the struggles did not begin and end with his viewing habits. Rock had previously admitted to infidelity during their marriage, which added strain to their relationship. Reflecting on these mistakes, he remarked, “It’s not anything I’m proud of, but it’s something I had to go through.” He likened his experiences to a superhero narrative, saying, “It’s like you watch a Marvel movie, and the guy, he has to test his powers.” He illustrated how such “testing” ultimately led to realisation and humility.
The comedian explained that, much like a character in a superhero film who learns from their hubris, he too underwent a journey of self-discovery. “I definitely realised I wasn’t God or anywhere near him, and I was severely humbled, as I should have been,” he stated, highlighting his growth from the experiences of his past.
Rock and Compton-Rock’s marriage lasted for 18 years, with their separation announced through a statement from Compton-Rock in 2014. She expressed that, despite the divorce being a significant change, their children remained the central focus of her life and her top priority.
A source close to the family previously shared with *People* that the split was anticipated, revealing that Rock had felt for some time that their relationship was unsalvageable. “He was the one to file because he knew it was time to just move forward already,” the insider noted.
Despite the breakdown of their marriage, Rock has taken a principled stand against using their private issues as material for comedy. In an interview with *Rolling Stone* back in 2017, he acknowledged the unfairness of using Compton-Rock as a target in his routine, saying, “It’s not fair. I have a mic, she doesn’t.” He stressed the importance of maintaining respect for her privacy, especially since they would continue to experience family events together.
More recently, the ex-couple were spotted together attending their daughter Zahra’s graduation from the University of Southern California in May 2026, indicating that they continue to co-parent amicably.
Rock’s journey serves as a reminder of the complexities of personal relationships and the lessons learned from past mistakes. As he continues to navigate life post-divorce, his reflections stand as a testament to personal growth and accountability.
