5 Things You Might Not Know About Nick Cannon

— -- Nick Cannon has become a household name.

For 20 years, he’s been performing on TV and film, selling out comedy tours, writing, producing, directing and rapping, and more recently investing in new companies. For someone who’s spent the majority of his life in the public eye, there are still a few details about the San Diego-born mogul that even the lengthiest bios don't include.

In a recent interview with ABC News Chief Business, Technology and Economics Correspondent Rebecca Jarvis on “Real Biz with Rebecca Jarvis,” Cannon shared a few things you might not know about him:

1. He Has Always Introduced Himself by His Full Name

“I remember even as a kid I introduced myself as Nick Cannon. Even when I was 4 or 5, like, that’s who I am and I almost felt like everyone should know that. And if you didn’t know who Nick Cannon was, who were you?” Cannon told Jarvis. Nowadays, that might not be necessary, since most people probably know who Cannon is before he introduces himself.

2. At 17, He Became the Youngest Staff Writer in Television History

Cannon’s first television gig was as a series regular and writer on Nickelodeon’s hit show, "All That." This young success led to the development of "The Nick Cannon Show," which aired in 2002.

3. He Loves Toys and Is Radio Shack's Chief Creative Officer

His role with the company involves developing gadgets, including his line of Ncredible products. His latest investment -- Ncredible Rocket Copters -- are like fireworks, minus the fire. “It’s like a digital firework you shoot up in the sky,” Cannon explained.

4. He Has 8 Jack Russell Terriers, and Has Some Very Strong Feelings About Cats

“My spirit animal is a lion,” he told Jarvis.

5. If He Weren't an Actor, Comedian, Musician, Producer, Host, Director, DJ, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist and Children’s Book Author, He Says He'd Be an Astronaut

And he’s apparently “been approached a couple times” already to go to Mars.