Monroe Cannon’s Bold Ambition to Follow Mariah Carey’s Legacy

At just 13 years old, Monroe Cannon is already making waves as the daughter of music icon Mariah Carey, whose $350 million empire and five Grammy Awards have cemented her as a legend. Recently spotted with her father, Wild ‘N Out host Nick Cannon, at a school basketball game in Los Angeles, Monroe’s confident declaration to follow in her mother’s illustrious footsteps has sparked intrigue. Fans are buzzing, but the question lingers: does Nick truly believe his daughter has the natural-born talent to rival Mariah’s legacy?

Monroe, one of Nick’s 12 children and twin sister to Moroccan, has been immersed in the spotlight from a young age. Known for her curly hair and glasses as a child, her recent outing showcased a transformed teen with long, loose locks and a trendy camo hoodie paired with a Prada purse. Her evolving style mirrors her growing presence in the entertainment world. Monroe has already performed alongside her mother on stages like The Hollywood Bowl and in TikTok duets, even singing a heartfelt rendition of Jesus Born On This Day with Mariah in 2023, captured by Kim Kardashian. These moments highlight her budding vocal talent and stage charisma.

 

Mariah, the “Queen of Christmas,” has spoken glowingly about her twins’ performances, emphasizing their passion rather than pushing them into her world. In a 2023 People interview, she shared, “It’s really nice for me to see them performing onstage… I even like watching them getting ready.” Yet, she’s clear about not forcing her career path on Monroe or Moroccan, telling W Magazine in 2022, “They can be anything they want to be.” This freedom has allowed Monroe to carve her own path, with her mother noting their paid tour appearances as a lesson in financial independence.

Nick, however, offers a grounded perspective on Monroe’s aspirations. In a 2024 People interview, he revealed her dream to attend Yale’s drama school, noting that “acting and performing” are her forte. When asked if he believes Monroe possesses the same raw talent as Mariah, Nick’s response was measured yet optimistic. “She’s got something special,” he said, “but it’s her work ethic and passion that stand out. Mariah’s gift is one-of-a-kind, but Monroe’s got her own spark.” His words suggest a belief in her potential, tempered by an understanding of the immense shadow cast by Mariah’s vocal range and global fame.

 

Monroe’s journey is still in its early stages, but her performances—like her cameo in Mariah’s 2021 Fall in Love at Christmas video—show a natural ease in the spotlight. Nick’s pride is evident, yet he acknowledges the challenge of living up to a legend. “She’s got to find her own voice,” he told Access Hollywood in 2023, hinting at his hope that Monroe will blend her mother’s influence with her own unique artistry.

As Monroe navigates adolescence and her ambitions, the world watches eagerly. With her mother’s guidance and her father’s support, she’s poised to make her mark—whether as a singer, actress, or something entirely her own. Only time will tell if she’ll soar to Mariah’s heights, but her bold declaration is a promising start.