George Foreman, the two-time heavyweight boxing champion and Olympic gold medalist, is renowned for his illustrious sports career and entrepreneurial success with the George Foreman Grill. However, behind the public persona lies a complex personal life shaped by love, family, and marriage. Foreman has been married five times and is a father to 12 children, with his personal relationships often intersecting with his public life. This article delves deep into George Foreman’s marriages, exploring the dynamics of his relationships, his views on family, and how his personal life has influenced his career and legacy.
George Foreman’s Early Life and Rise to Fame
Before examining Foreman’s marriages, it is important to understand the man behind the fame. George Edward Foreman was born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, but grew up in Houston. Raised in a poor family, Foreman’s early life was filled with struggles. He was a self-described “troubled” teenager who dropped out of school and got into street fights before discovering boxing.
In 1968, Foreman made a name for himself by winning a gold medal in boxing at the Mexico City Olympics. He turned professional shortly after and quickly rose to prominence, capturing the heavyweight title in 1973 by defeating Joe Frazier. Foreman’s reign as champion, however, was short-lived. He famously lost to Muhammad Ali in 1974’s “Rumble in the Jungle,” a historic fight that temporarily ended his dominance in the sport. After his loss, Foreman’s life took an unexpected turn, leading him toward personal transformation and a change in priorities.
George Foreman’s Five Marriages: A Timeline
George Foreman’s personal life has been marked by a series of marriages, each of which brought different challenges and joys. His five wives have been pivotal figures in his life, providing insight into his relationships and evolving views on love, commitment, and family.
1. Adrienne Calhoun (1971-1974)
George Foreman married Adrienne Calhoun in 1971, having a daughter, Michi. Their marriage ended in 1974 due to career pressures.
2. Cynthia Lewis (1977-1979)
In 1977, George Foreman married Cynthia Lewis, but their relationship struggled due to his internal challenges, ending after two years.
3. Sharon Goodson (1981-1982)
George Foreman married Sharon Goodson in 1981, but their brief union lasted only a year due to compatibility issues.
4. Andrea Skeete (1982-1985)
George Foreman married Andrea Skeete in 1982, having two children: Freeda and George III. Their marriage ended in 1985.
5. Mary Joan Martelly (1985-Present)
Foreman’s longest and most enduring marriage has been with Mary Joan Martelly, whom he married in 1985. Unlike his previous relationships, his marriage to Mary Joan has withstood the test of time, lasting nearly four decades. Together, they have five children: three sons and two daughters. Foreman has often credited Mary Joan with bringing stability and peace to his life, particularly during his later years when he made his comeback to boxing.
In interviews, Foreman has spoken fondly of Mary Joan, describing her as his rock and a source of unwavering support. This stability has been especially important as Foreman transitioned from a boxer to a businessman, becoming a household name thanks to his highly successful George Foreman Grill.
George Foreman’s Views on Marriage and Family
Throughout his multiple marriages, George Foreman’s views on relationships have evolved. As a younger man, he often struggled with the demands of his career and personal life, leading to several short-lived marriages. However, his later years, particularly after his religious conversion, brought a deeper understanding of family and commitment.
Foreman is known for his strong faith, and he frequently attributes his success in both his professional and personal life to his relationship with God. His religious beliefs have influenced his approach to marriage, particularly his relationship with Mary Joan, whom he views as a blessing in his life. Foreman’s transformation from a brash, hard-hitting boxer to a calm, family-oriented man can be largely credited to his faith and the support of his wife.
One of the most notable aspects of Foreman’s family life is his decision to name most of his sons “George.” Foreman has five sons: George Jr., George III, George IV, George V, and George VI. When asked about this unusual choice, Foreman has said that he wanted to ensure his legacy would live on and that, should anything happen to him, his children would always have a strong connection to their father’s name.
The Foreman Family: A Legacy of Love and Strength
Family has always been central to George Foreman’s life. Despite his busy career and public persona, Foreman has consistently emphasized the importance of being a father and husband. His 12 children, including seven daughters and five sons, have been a source of pride for him, and he has remained deeply involved in their lives.
In addition to his biological children, Foreman has adopted two children, expanding his family even further. Foreman’s emphasis on family extends beyond just providing for them financially; he is known for being a present and engaged father, offering guidance and support to his children.
Freeda Foreman
Perhaps one of the most notable stories within the Foreman family is that of Freeda Foreman, George’s daughter from his marriage to Andrea Skeete. Like her father, Freeda pursued a career in boxing, making headlines as a female fighter in a male-dominated sport. However, she eventually retired, choosing to focus on her family and personal life.
Tragically, Freeda passed away in 2019 at the age of 42. Her death was a profound loss for the Foreman family, and George has since spoken publicly about the heartbreak of losing a child. Despite the pain of her loss, Foreman has continued to honor Freeda’s memory, speaking about her with love and pride.
George Foreman III
George Foreman III, known as “Monk,” has also made a name for himself, though not solely in the boxing ring. While he followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued boxing for a time, he has since become an entrepreneur, much like his father. He is the founder of “EverybodyFights,” a gym and fitness chain that blends boxing and fitness training. Monk has often credited his father’s influence and work ethic as key factors in his own success.
The Role of Religion in George Foreman’s Marriages
One of the defining moments in George Foreman’s life came in 1977, following his loss to Jimmy Young. After the fight, Foreman experienced what he described as a near-death experience, during which he claimed to have had a vision of God. This profound event led Foreman to become a born-again Christian, and he soon retired from boxing to focus on his faith and ministry.
Foreman’s religious transformation played a significant role in shaping his later relationships. His faith became a cornerstone of his life, influencing his approach to marriage, family, and even his comeback to boxing in the 1990s. Foreman has often credited his wife Mary Joan with helping him stay grounded in his faith and providing the support he needed to maintain a balance between his personal and professional life.
George Foreman’s Legacy: A Man of Many Roles
George Foreman’s legacy extends far beyond the boxing ring. While he is undoubtedly one of the greatest boxers of all time, his personal life, particularly his role as a husband and father, has been equally important in shaping his public image. His multiple marriages, while sometimes tumultuous, have ultimately led him to a place of stability and contentment with Mary Joan.
As a father of 12, Foreman’s family continues to be a source of pride and inspiration for him. His children have followed various paths, from boxing to business, and Foreman has supported them in their endeavors. The Foreman family name, especially through his sons who all share his name, will undoubtedly carry on George’s legacy for generations to come.
FAQs
1. How many times has George Foreman been married?
George Foreman has been married five times. His current marriage, to Mary Joan Martelly, has lasted since 1985.
2. Who is George Foreman’s current wife?
Foreman’s current wife is Mary Joan Martelly, whom he married in 1985. They have been together for nearly four decades.
3. How many children does George Foreman have with his wives?
George Foreman has 12 children from his marriages, including five sons (all named George) and seven daughters.
4. What role does religion play in George Foreman’s marriages?
After a religious epiphany in 1977, Foreman became a born-again Christian. His faith has been central to his life, particularly in his long-lasting marriage to Mary Joan.
5. How has George Foreman’s relationship with his wives influenced his public persona?
Foreman’s personal life, especially his stable marriage with Mary Joan, has contributed to his image as a family man, in addition to his accomplishments in boxing and business.
Conclusion
George Foreman’s personal life, particularly his marriages, offers a glimpse into the complexities of a man who has experienced both tremendous success and personal struggles. His five marriages reflect his evolving views on love, commitment, and family, and his relationship with Mary Joan has been a cornerstone of his later years.
Foreman’s transformation from a troubled youth to a boxing legend and successful entrepreneur is a testament to his resilience and dedication. However, it is his role as a husband and father that perhaps best defines the man behind the legend. Through faith, family, and love, George Foreman has built a legacy that extends far beyond the boxing ring, proving that even champions can find strength in the bonds of marriage and family.