Challenges in the Life of Mariah Carey in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Mariah Carey's life and career.

Mariah Carey is a highly acclaimed American singer-songwriter, record producer, and actress. Recognized as the "Songbird Supreme" for her exceptional five-octave vocal range, melismatic style, and whistle register, she holds a prominent place in music history. Carey's influence is considerable, demonstrated by Rolling Stone ranking her as the fifth greatest singer of all time in 2023. She remains a significant figure in contemporary music and pop culture.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

December 1996: Separation from Tommy Mottola

In December 1996, Mariah Carey and Tommy Mottola separated due to growing creative differences and Mottola's controlling nature.

May 30, 1997: Public Announcement of Separation

On May 30, 1997, Mariah Carey and Tommy Mottola publicly announced their separation.

July 2001: Emotional and Physical Breakdown

In July 2001, Mariah Carey experienced a physical and emotional breakdown, leading to erratic behavior, hospitalization on July 26, and the delayed release of the Glitter film and soundtrack.

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2001: Mental Breakdown

In 2001, Mariah Carey experienced a mental breakdown, which received widespread media coverage.

2001: Failure of Glitter

In 2001, Mariah Carey faced the failure of her film Glitter and a career decline.

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2001: Diagnosis of Bipolar II Disorder

In 2001, Mariah Carey was diagnosed with bipolar II disorder but initially kept the diagnosis private.

December 2008: Cancelled Tour

In early December 2008, Mariah Carey cancelled her tour in support of E=MC² due to pregnancy and a subsequent miscarriage.

August 2014: Separation from Nick Cannon

In August 2014, Nick Cannon confirmed that he and Mariah Carey had separated.

December 12, 2014: Nick Cannon Files for Divorce

On December 12, 2014, Nick Cannon filed for divorce from Mariah Carey.

October 2016: End of Engagement to James Packer and Relationship with Bryan Tanaka

By October 2016, Mariah Carey and James Packer had called off their engagement. In October 2016, she began dating American choreographer Bryan Tanaka.

December 31, 2016: Technical Difficulties During New Year's Rockin' Eve Performance

On December 31, 2016, Mariah Carey's performance on Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve in Times Square received worldwide attention after technical difficulties caused her in-ear monitors to malfunction, resulting in a performance mishap.

2017: Technical Issues at New Year's Rockin' Eve Performance

Mariah Carey's performance at Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve 2017 was marred by technical issues, but she returned to the stage a year later and, according to Time, "effectively redeemed herself".