Kathie Lee Gifford, a beloved figure in American television, has navigated her personal life and career with grace, often sharing glimpses of her romantic journey with the public. Her love story, marked by significant partnerships and profound loss, reflects a deep commitment to family and faith. From her early marriage to her enduring bond with a sports legend, Gifford's relationships have shaped her public persona and personal narrative.
Kathie Lee's first marriage was to Paul Johnson, a Christian music composer and publisher. They met in college and married in 1976. Their union lasted for several years, during which Kathie Lee began to establish her career in television. The couple ultimately divorced in 1983, with reports suggesting that their careers and differing paths contributed to the split.
Following her divorce from Paul Johnson, Kathie Lee met the legendary NFL player and sportscaster, Frank Gifford. Their relationship quickly blossomed despite their significant age difference, with Frank being 23 years her senior. They married on October 18, 1986, a union that would become one of Hollywood's most enduring and publicly celebrated partnerships. Their wedding was a private affair, marking the beginning of a highly visible and seemingly idyllic life together.
Their marriage was often in the public eye, particularly during Kathie Lee's tenure on "Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee," where she frequently shared anecdotes about their life together. The couple welcomed two children: son Cody Newton Gifford in 1990 and daughter Cassidy Erin Gifford in 1993. Their family life, often depicted as wholesome and loving, became a staple of morning television.
Despite the public image, their marriage faced significant challenges, including a highly publicized scandal in 1997 involving Frank. Kathie Lee stood by her husband, publicly reaffirming her commitment to their marriage and their family. > "We're committed to our marriage and our family," she stated during that difficult period, showcasing her resilience and dedication. They worked through the challenges, emerging seemingly stronger.
Frank Gifford passed away on August 9, 2015, at the age of 84, leaving Kathie Lee a widow after nearly 29 years of marriage. His death was a profound loss for Kathie Lee and her children, and she openly grieved while continuing her work on television. She often spoke fondly of Frank, cherishing their memories and the family they built together.
In the years following Frank's death, Kathie Lee remained focused on her family, faith, and career, eventually relocating to Nashville. She openly discussed the possibility of finding love again, expressing a desire for companionship. In 2021, reports emerged that she was dating Richard Spitz, a businessman. While she confirmed she was seeing someone and enjoying the new chapter, she kept the details of this relationship relatively private, emphasizing the importance of genuine connection over public display.
More recently, Kathie Lee has been linked to Randy Phillips, a music executive. She confirmed in late 2023 that she was "in a relationship" with Phillips, describing him as a wonderful man. This relationship signifies a new phase in her romantic life, as she continues to embrace joy and companionship after years of widowhood. Her journey reflects a woman who prioritizes love and connection, always with an open heart and unwavering faith.