Blake Griffin Confirms Marriage to Francesca Aiello and Launches New TV Show

Blake Griffin has confirmed his marriage to swimwear designer Francesca Aiello, capping a busy week that also saw the launch of his new television career. The retired NBA star made the news public by wearing his wedding band at multiple high-profile events, including the premiere of his weekly talk show and an NBA on Prime art exhibition.

Blake Griffin and Francesca Aiello are married

A representative for Griffin confirmed the marriage to People magazine. The couple, who reportedly got engaged in late 2024, have not shared details of their wedding ceremony. Griffin first sparked speculation by wearing his gold wedding band last week while promoting the second season of NBA on Prime and his new show, "The Stepback with Blake Griffin." He and Aiello, the founder of Frankies Bikinis, then posed together on the red carpet at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in Los Angeles on Sunday, October 18. They initially began dating in June 2018, briefly split, and reconnected in August 2023. Griffin is a father to two children from a previous relationship.

His late-night TV career begins with 'The Stepback'

Griffin is stepping into a new role as a television host. His weekly late-night sports talk and comedy show, "The Stepback with Blake Griffin," is produced with Amazon Studios, YouTube, and Wondery. The show premieres on Tuesday, October 20. An exclusive screening was held on Wednesday, October 14, where Griffin was again seen wearing his wedding ring. This move into broadcasting marks a significant post-retirement pivot for the six-time All-Star, allowing him to blend sports analysis with his comedic style on a major platform.

He headlined the NBA on Prime art exhibition

On Tuesday, October 13, Griffin was a featured guest at "The Art of Basketball," a one-night-only exhibition in New York City celebrating Prime Video’s upcoming NBA season. The event connected basketball, art, and culture through works from more than 15 contemporary artists. It brought together other basketball icons like Dirk Nowitzki, Steve Nash, and Udonis Haslem, alongside entertainment figures such as Common and Gayle King. The exhibition highlighted the game's influence beyond the court through painting, sculpture, and mixed media installations.

Griffin offers advice on ego to current players

He advised young athletes to keep their egos in check. "Don't think you are God's gift to Earth," Griffin said, emphasizing humility and teamwork. This reality check comes from a player who was the No. 1 overall pick in 2009 and the 2011 Rookie of the Year, experiencing both superstar adulation and the challenges of adapting his game through injuries and team changes with the Clippers, Pistons, Nets, and Celtics.

• Marriage Confirmed: Blake Griffin and Francesca Aiello are married.
• Show Premieres: His new weekly talk show, "The Stepback," launches on October 20, 2026.
• Cultural Presence: Griffin was a headline guest at the NBA on Prime "Art of Basketball" exhibition on October 13.
• Veteran Perspective: The retired All-Star recently cautioned players against having "massive egos."