5 Surprising Facts About Tisha Campbell's Son Xen Martin And His Autism Journey In 2025

The question of "Is Tisha Campbell's son autistic?" is one the actress has openly and bravely addressed for years, turning her family's private journey into a public platform for advocacy. As of December 2025, the answer remains a resounding yes, and her eldest son, Xen Martin, continues to inspire as he navigates young adulthood and college life.

The veteran star of classic sitcoms like Martin and My Wife and Kids has consistently shared her experiences raising a child on the Autism Spectrum, offering a vital voice for parents, especially those in the minority community. This deep dive explores the current status of Xen Martin, his recent achievements, and Tisha Campbell's enduring commitment to raising awareness.

Tisha Campbell: A Comprehensive Biography and Family Profile

Tisha Campbell is an iconic American actress and singer whose career spans over four decades, but her most impactful role may be that of a dedicated mother and autism advocate. Her journey in the spotlight began long before her motherhood journey, establishing a lasting legacy in television and film.

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• Full Name: Tisha Michelle Campbell
• Date of Birth: October 13, 1968
• Place of Birth: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Raised In: Newark, New Jersey
• Parents: Mona Campbell (nurse and gospel singer) and Clifton Campbell
• Career Highlights: Major roles in the film Little Shop of Horrors (1986) and the television series Martin (as Gina Waters-Payne), My Wife and Kids (as Janet "Jay" Kyle), and Rita Rocks.
• Former Spouse: Duane Martin (married 1996, divorced 2020)
• Children: Xen Martin and Ezekiel Czar Martin

The Truth Behind the Question: Xen Martin's Autism Diagnosis

The public curiosity surrounding "Is Tisha Campbell's son autistic?" stems from the actress's own transparency about her family's life. Xen Martin, her eldest son, was officially diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) when he was just 18 months old.

Campbell initially struggled with the diagnosis, experiencing the denial that many parents face. She has recounted the emotional journey of seeking multiple medical opinions before finally accepting the truth and dedicating herself to understanding her son's needs.

Her experience highlighted a critical need for support and resources, particularly within the Black community, where autism diagnoses and early intervention can often be overlooked or delayed. This personal challenge became the catalyst for her powerful and long-standing advocacy work.

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From Early Diagnosis to College Acceptance: Xen Martin's Inspiring Journey

Xen Martin, who turned 24 in August 2025, is a testament to the power of early intervention and parental dedication. His life is a clear example that an autism diagnosis is not a limitation but a different path to success.

One of the most recent and exciting updates about Xen is his pursuit of higher education. Tisha Campbell proudly shared the news of his acceptance into college, a major milestone for any family, and especially significant for a young man on the spectrum.

Xen is attending Moorpark College, where he is studying Zoology. This focus on an academic path he is passionate about—the study of animals—demonstrates his unique interests and capabilities.

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Campbell has often spoken about the methods she used to help Xen develop social skills, including using her acting background to teach him empathy. She realized that by acting out different emotions, she could help him process and understand feelings in a more concrete way.

Tisha Campbell's Fierce Autism Advocacy and Legacy

Tisha Campbell's commitment extends far beyond her own home. She has become a leading voice in the Autism Awareness movement, using her celebrity platform to educate the public and lobby for better resources. Her work emphasizes the need for tolerance, understanding, and early diagnosis.

Co-Founding Colored My Mind

One of her most significant contributions is the co-founding of the organization "Colored My Mind." This initiative was specifically created to address the unique challenges faced by minority families navigating the world of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Campbell recognized that minority communities often lack the same access to diagnostic services, support groups, and early intervention programs as their counterparts. Colored My Mind aims to bridge this gap, providing culturally sensitive resources and support to ensure no family feels isolated.

Working with National Organizations

In addition to her own organization, Tisha Campbell has actively collaborated with major national autism organizations, including Autism Speaks. Her involvement helps to amplify the message of acceptance and to fund critical research and support services across the country.

She frequently participates in galas, interviews, and public service announcements to share her story. For example, she and Xen attended the 2023 HollyRod Gala, an event dedicated to providing compassionate care to those affected by autism and Parkinson’s disease.

The Campbell-Martin Family Today: Xen and Ezekiel

Xen Martin's younger brother, Ezekiel Czar Martin, born in 2009 (making him 16 in 2025), also plays a vital role in the family dynamic. Having a sibling on the spectrum often shapes a child's perspective, fostering deep empathy and understanding.

Despite Tisha Campbell and Duane Martin's divorce in 2020, both parents remain dedicated to co-parenting their sons and supporting Xen's continued growth and development. Their public stance has always been one of unity and focused support for their children's well-being.

Xen's transition to college life is the latest chapter in a story of resilience and love. His journey from an 18-month-old receiving a life-altering diagnosis to a young man pursuing a degree in Zoology serves as a beacon of hope. Tisha Campbell's openness has not only helped her son but has also fundamentally changed the public conversation around autism, particularly for families of color, cementing her legacy as an unparalleled advocate.