American comedian Kathy Griffin has candidly revealed she "accidentally" fell in love with a man 42 years her junior in the wake of her recent divorce. The 65-year-old star shared details of the romance in a personal essay, explaining the unique connection she found with the 23-year-old.
A Surprising Connection After Divorce
Griffin's revelation comes shortly after she filed for divorce from her second husband, Randy Bick, 47, in December 2023. The split occurred just days before what would have been their fourth wedding anniversary, with the comedian citing "irreconcilable differences" as the reason. Her first marriage was to actor Matt Moline from 2001 to 2006.
In the essay published for The Cut, Griffin described how she unexpectedly developed feelings for a man in his twenties. She praised his lack of the "usual sexism, misogyny, and biases" she often encountered in men her own age. "I accidentally fell in love with a 23-year-old," she wrote, highlighting the refreshing dynamic of their relationship.
Embracing the 'Cougar' Label
The stand-up comedian addressed the public perception of her dating preferences head-on. She admitted she is constantly called a "cougar" but stated she does not mind the label. "I haven't been with a guy my age since I was in my 30s," Griffin explained, noting that younger men are typically the ones who ask her out.
She reframed the term, suggesting it represents the freedom to choose a partner outside societal expectations. "I put 64 on my profile, and when I went on those dates, every one of them was at least 20 years younger. What am I gonna do? I can't let this bangin' body go to waste," she quipped. Griffin also confirmed she is active on four different dating apps in her continued search for love.
A Heartfelt But Finite Romance
Griffin spoke warmly of the emotional impact the relationship had on her. She said the younger man made her feel "sexy and special and smart and funny" and that the partnership contained many elements of a lasting bond. "It was nice to know that my heart could still feel like that in my 60s," she admitted.
However, she acknowledged the relationship's inherent limitations, aware that her own "baggage" meant it was unlikely to endure long-term. "I really was in love with him. He touched my heart," Griffin said, before adding that she ultimately knew she "had to set that dove free." The pair parted ways after giving the romance a sincere try.
In her candid essay, Griffin also touched on maintaining a healthy sex drive and her practical approach to modern dating, including carrying a "party pack" of condoms because "you just never know when the right opportunity might arise." Regarding her divorce from Bick, sources suggested the pair had grown apart, with Griffin feeling she needed to end the marriage to rediscover herself.
