Nick Cannon Speaks Out About Mariah Carey Divorce Drama, How His Kids Are Handling The Separation

For the first time since Nick Cannon announced his official separation from Mariah Carey two months ago, the TV host opened up about his split from the Grammy Award-winning singer. While attending the red carpet premiere of the film “Addicted" in New York City Thursday, Cannon, 34, told Extra TV that he is still healing after ending his six-year marriage to the “We Belong Together” singer.

“I’m just taking everything one day at a time and just being the best person that I can possibly be at the end of the day. That's what it's all about,” he said.

The couple’s 3-year-old twins, Moroccan and Monroe, are also reportedly handling the split with grace. “They’re great. They’re doing amazing,” Cannon said. “They’re on the road right now with Mommy, on tour, so they’re having a good time.”

Despite rumors that the duo’s split was fueled by infidelity, the "America's Got Talent" host said he is still on good terms with his estranged wife. “I just wish her nothing but the best. We are in contact constantly,” he said.

Cannon later proved his loyalty to Carey by sticking up for her panned, reportedly off-key performance of “Always Be My Baby" during a concert in Japan last week. “You might have an off night here or there, but she’s one of the greatest performers and entertainers of our time. She’s not worried. I’m not worried,” he said.

While Cannon claims to still be cordial with Carey, 44, that didn’t stop him from starting the process of covering up his famous “Mariah” back tattoo. When asked about his decision to mask her name with a crucifixion, Cannon said his decision to cover the body art was knowledge never meant to be shared with the public.

“I didn’t know they were there,” Cannon said referencing the photographers that snapped a photo of his new ink in Studio City, California, last Sunday. “That’s how sneaky the paparazzi are.... I had just gotten it done.”

Despite originally sharing his desire for the tattoo to remain private, Cannon did eventually open up about the process of covering up Carey’s name and his plans to expand the piece. “It was painful.... It hurt a lot, and I’m still not finished. I’m still probably like six more sessions away,” he said.

Cannon announced his separation from Carey in August after months of rumors that the couple’s marriage was in turmoil. "There is trouble in paradise," Cannon told The Insider. "We have been living in separate houses for a few months."

The New York Daily News reported Thursday that Carey is expected to file for divorce "very soon."