Tisha Campbell’s Ex-Husband: The Story Behind the Marriage, Divorce, and Life After
Tisha Campbell’s ex-husband has been a subject of interest for fans of the actress, who has long been admired for her warmth, comedic timing, and resilience. Known for her iconic roles in Martin and My Wife and Kids, Tisha Campbell has spent decades entertaining audiences with her humor and talent. Yet behind her success on screen was a personal story filled with both love and heartache — her marriage to actor and producer Duane Martin. The two were once seen as one of Hollywood’s most enduring couples, but after more than two decades together, their relationship came to an emotional end. Today, both Tisha and Duane have found new directions in their lives, showing that even after heartbreak, growth and self-discovery are always possible.
Who Is Tisha Campbell?
Tisha Campbell was born on October 13, 1968, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and grew up in Newark, New Jersey. From a young age, she showed a natural gift for performing. Encouraged by her parents, both of whom had musical backgrounds, she began singing and acting in school productions and local talent shows. Her big break came in the 1986 musical comedy Little Shop of Horrors, which opened doors to more film and television roles.
By the early 1990s, Tisha had become a household name. She starred alongside Martin Lawrence in the hit sitcom Martin, where her portrayal of Gina Waters — witty, confident, and relatable — made her one of the most beloved characters on television. Later, she captivated audiences again as Janet “Jay” Kyle in My Wife and Kids, a family sitcom that showcased both her comedic and maternal sides.
Tisha’s career has been marked by versatility — from singing and acting to advocacy. Off-screen, she’s been vocal about mental health, women’s empowerment, and surviving personal challenges. Her ability to use humor and honesty to connect with audiences has made her an enduring figure in entertainment.
Who Is Tisha Campbell’s Ex-Husband?
Tisha Campbell’s ex-husband, Duane Martin, is a multi-talented actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Born on August 11, 1965, in Brooklyn, New York, Duane initially had dreams of becoming a professional basketball player before transitioning into acting. He played college basketball at New York University and even signed with the New York Knicks, though he never played a regular-season game. Eventually, he found his calling in entertainment.
Duane gained recognition in the 1990s through his roles in popular films and TV shows. He appeared in White Men Can’t Jump (1992) alongside Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson, Above the Rim (1994) with Tupac Shakur, and the sitcom All of Us, which was produced by Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith. In addition to acting, he worked behind the camera as a producer and entrepreneur, often blending his love for sports and business.
Before meeting Tisha, Duane was known for his charisma and ambition. When the two eventually crossed paths, they shared not only a mutual attraction but also a deep understanding of the pressures that came with fame. Their relationship seemed like a perfect pairing — two talented, driven individuals building both a family and a brand together.
How Tisha Campbell and Duane Martin Met
Tisha Campbell and Duane Martin met in the early 1990s, during a time when both were establishing their careers in Hollywood. They connected through mutual friends within the entertainment industry, and their chemistry was undeniable from the start. What began as a friendship soon blossomed into romance, with the two finding common ground in their shared experiences as actors navigating a competitive industry.
The couple married in 1996, a year after Tisha left the sitcom Martin. Their wedding was private, but their relationship quickly became public, admired by fans and fellow celebrities alike. Together, they represented a positive image of Black love in Hollywood — strong, stable, and successful. Over the years, they made numerous red carpet appearances, collaborated on projects, and supported each other through the ups and downs of fame.
A Hollywood Power Couple
Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Tisha Campbell and Duane Martin were often referred to as a Hollywood “power couple.” They seemed to have it all — successful careers, a beautiful family, and a strong partnership that appeared unshakable. In 2001, they welcomed their first son, Xen, and in 2009, their second son, Ezekiel.
The couple’s love story was not just romantic but also professional. They often collaborated creatively, with Tisha appearing on Duane’s sitcom All of Us and supporting his other ventures in film and television. In interviews, Tisha frequently spoke of Duane’s intelligence and drive, while Duane praised Tisha’s talent and work ethic.
For many years, they were seen as role models for what a lasting Hollywood marriage could look like. Their ability to maintain their relationship amid busy schedules and public scrutiny was admired — until reports began to surface suggesting that all was not as perfect as it seemed.
The Marriage Challenges
Every marriage faces challenges, and for Tisha and Duane, those challenges eventually took a toll. In 2016, the couple made headlines when they reportedly filed for bankruptcy, citing millions of dollars in debt. The financial strain became a point of public discussion, with both stars facing speculation about their spending and lifestyle.
Beyond financial issues, personal differences began to emerge. Tisha has since spoken about how she struggled to find herself within the marriage, feeling at times overshadowed and disconnected from her own identity. Despite the love they once shared, the relationship became increasingly difficult to sustain.
In 2018, Tisha officially announced her separation from Duane Martin. She took to social media to share the news, writing that she was grateful for the years they had together but that it was time for both of them to move on. Her message was heartfelt and mature, emphasizing mutual respect even amid the pain of separation.
Divorce and Public Reaction
The divorce between Tisha Campbell and Duane Martin was finalized in 2020, marking the end of a 22-year marriage. The split attracted considerable media attention, not only because of the couple’s fame but also due to the emotional honesty with which Tisha addressed the situation.
During interviews following the separation, Tisha spoke openly about the journey of rediscovering herself. She described how difficult it was to rebuild her confidence after such a long marriage but also expressed pride in her personal growth. In one particularly moving statement, she said, “I’m the happiest I’ve been in years because I know who I am now.”
Fans rallied behind her, admiring her courage and positivity. While some speculated about the causes of the split, Tisha maintained a dignified silence about private details, focusing instead on her own healing and her role as a mother.
Life After Divorce
Since her divorce, Tisha Campbell has embraced a new chapter filled with self-love, creativity, and empowerment. She returned to television with renewed energy, appearing in shows such as Outmatched and Uncoupled. Her social media presence also grew, with fans enjoying her humor, candid reflections, and stylish posts that radiate confidence.
Tisha has also become an advocate for mental health awareness, often sharing her experiences with therapy and healing. She speaks about her journey not as a story of loss, but one of rediscovery — finding joy in independence and purpose after years of putting others first.
Meanwhile, Duane Martin has continued to work in entertainment and business. While he remains less publicly vocal about the divorce, he appears to be focused on his career and family life. The couple’s priority has always been their children, and they have reportedly maintained a respectful co-parenting relationship.
Lessons from Their Journey
The story of Tisha Campbell and her ex-husband Duane Martin offers insight into the complexities of love, fame, and personal growth. For many years, they symbolized what appeared to be an unbreakable partnership. But as both have since shared, relationships — even long and loving ones — can evolve and end in ways that ultimately lead to self-discovery.
Tisha’s story, in particular, resonates with anyone who has faced change after a long relationship. She has shown that it’s possible to reinvent oneself at any stage in life and that endings can be beginnings in disguise. Her laughter, authenticity, and courage continue to inspire fans who see her as more than an actress — but as a woman who triumphed through transformation.
Featured Image Source: people.com
