Chance The Rapper, born Chancelor Jonathan Bennett, has largely kept his romantic life private, with his long-standing relationship and eventual marriage to Kirsten Corley being the central narrative of his public romantic history. Their journey, spanning decades, is a testament to a deep connection that began in childhood and evolved through various life stages, including parenthood, fame, and ultimately, separation.
The story of Chance and Kirsten Corley began in 2003 when they were both just nine years old. They first met at his mother's office party, where Kirsten performed a Destiny's Child dance routine. Chance later recounted that he was instantly smitten, feeling an immediate connection, though he was too shy to introduce himself at the time. This formative encounter laid the groundwork for their future.
Years later, the pair reconnected and began dating in 2013. Their relationship blossomed, and in September 2015, they welcomed their first daughter, Kensli Bennett. This milestone marked a significant step in their commitment to each other and their growing family.
However, their relationship faced a public challenge in early 2016. Corley filed a petition in Cook County Circuit Court to establish paternity and seek child support. Reports indicated that the couple briefly lived separately. By March 2017, they had amicably resolved their child support case, with both parties' attorneys highlighting their cooperation in prioritizing Kensli's best interests. This period of reconciliation ultimately strengthened their bond.
In July 2018, Chance The Rapper publicly proposed to Kirsten Corley during a Fourth of July backyard barbecue, a moment he shared with his fans. The proposal was met with widespread excitement, solidifying their commitment to marriage after years of dating and co-parenting.
The couple officially tied the knot in a private civil ceremony in December 2018 at a Chicago courthouse, ahead of their larger celebration. Their highly anticipated wedding ceremony took place on March 9, 2019, in Newport Beach, California. The star-studded event included notable guests like Kanye West and Dave Chappelle, marking a joyous occasion for the couple and their loved ones.
Just a few months after their wedding, in August 2019, Chance and Kirsten welcomed their second daughter, Marli Grace Bennett. The arrival of Marli further expanded their family, and Chance often spoke publicly about the joys and responsibilities of fatherhood, integrating his family life into his public persona and music, notably with his 2019 album The Big Day, which largely celebrated his marriage and family.
After five years of marriage, Chance The Rapper and Kirsten Corley announced their decision to separate in a joint statement on April 3, 2024. They stated their intention to co-parent their two daughters, emphasizing their continued love and respect for each other. The separation was followed by Corley officially filing for divorce in December 2024, marking the formal end of their marital union. Despite the separation, both have expressed a commitment to maintaining a positive co-parenting relationship for Kensli and Marli.