Kathy Griffin, 65, Finds Love with 23-Year-Old

Comedian's May-December romance highlights growing acceptance of age-gap relationships

Jan. 31, 2026 at 5:39am

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Comedian Kathy Griffin, 65, recently revealed that shortly after her split from her ex-husband, she found love with a 23-year-old man. While their 42-year age gap initially raised eyebrows, Griffin explained that the relationship was not intentional and that she "accidentally fell in love." Although the relationship did not last, Griffin has no regrets, noting that her younger partner's lack of "sexism, misogyny, and biases" made her feel comfortable and content.

Why it matters

Griffin's relationship highlights the growing acceptance of May-December romances, as research indicates that as individuals age, they often prefer younger partners in new relationships. Celebrities like Griffin and Bill Belichick, who has a nearly 50-year age gap with his girlfriend, are increasingly open about these types of relationships, which may lead to greater societal acceptance.

The details

Griffin explained that the relationship ended when her 23-year-old partner told her he never wanted to have kids and could be with her forever. Griffin said she couldn't do that to him, as she felt he was too young to make such a commitment. The author of the article also shares his own experience of dating a woman 25 years older, noting that the relationship helped foster his emotional maturity.

  • In December 2026, Kathy Griffin revealed her relationship with a 23-year-old man in an article for 'The Cut'.

The players

Kathy Griffin

A 65-year-old comedian who recently revealed she found love with a 23-year-old man after her split from her ex-husband.

Kathy Griffin's 23-year-old partner

Griffin's younger romantic partner, with whom she had a 42-year age gap.

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What they’re saying

“Because of his age, he didn't have the usual sexism, misogyny, and biases that guys my age tend to have. He seemed to see me. I know that sounds really corny. … But I felt really comfortable with him, and I felt very content just hanging out.”

— Kathy Griffin

“You don't know that. You're 23. You have no idea,”

— Kathy Griffin

The takeaway

Kathy Griffin's May-December romance highlights the growing acceptance of age-gap relationships, as more celebrities openly share their experiences and research indicates a shift in dating preferences as people age. While these types of relationships were once considered taboo, they are becoming more normalized, though societal perceptions may still vary.