James Garner, a legendary Hollywood actor known for his roles in “The Rockford Files,” “Maverick,” and “The Notebook,” enjoyed a long and happy married life. His marriage to Lois Clarke spanned nearly six decades, filled with love, challenges, and cherished memories.
Is James Garner Married?
Yes, James Garner was married to Lois Clarke. The couple met in 1956 at a social gathering and fell in love almost instantly. They got married just two weeks later, on August 17, 1956. Their marriage lasted until Garner’s death in 2014. Despite facing some ups and downs, including a few separations, James Garner and Lois Clarke remained deeply committed to each other throughout their life together.
James Garner’s Personal Life and Relationships
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James Scott Bumgarner |
| Birth Date | April 7, 1928 |
| Birth Place | Norman, Oklahoma, USA |
| Marital Status | Married to Lois Clarke (1956-2014) |
| Profession | Actor, Producer |
| Known For | “The Rockford Files,” “Maverick” |
| Death | July 19, 2014 |
When Did James Garner Get Married?
James Garner got married to Lois Clarke on August 17, 1956. Their wedding was quite a surprise to many, as they had only known each other for about two weeks. However, their whirlwind romance turned into a lifelong commitment. Despite their brief courtship, James and Lois were dedicated to each other and their family.
How Long Have James Garner and Lois Clarke Been Married?
James Garner and Lois Clarke were married for almost 58 years. Although they had a few separations, including a brief split in 1970 and another in 1979, they always found their way back to each other. They reconciled in 1981 and remained together until James Garner’s passing in 2014, just shy of their 58th wedding anniversary.
James Garner’s Wife: Lois Clarke
Lois Clarke was James Garner’s wife. They met at a party in 1956, and despite their differences, they fell deeply in love. Lois was a loving wife and mother who supported James throughout his career. She stood by him during the tough times, including his health challenges and demanding work schedule. Lois Clarke passed away on October 30, 2021.
James Garner’s Kids and Family
| Family Member | Details |
|---|---|
| Wife | Lois Clarke (Married from 1956-2014) |
| Children | Kimberly Garner (adopted), Greta ‘Gigi’ Garner (biological) |
| Grandchildren | Not widely known or reported |
James Garner and Lois Clarke had two daughters. Kimberly Garner was adopted by James from Lois’s previous marriage, and they had their biological daughter, Greta ‘Gigi’ Garner. Gigi followed in her father’s footsteps and pursued a career in the entertainment industry as a recording artist, private investigator, and jewelry designer.
Rumors About James Garner’s Marriage
There were rumors and speculations about James Garner’s marriage over the years, mainly due to their separations in 1970 and 1979. Some tabloids suggested that their marriage was in trouble, but James and Lois always emphasized that these separations were due to his busy work schedule and stress from his role in “The Rockford Files,” rather than any significant marital discord. They reunited in 1981 and remained married until his death in 2014.
Facts
- True Love Story: James Garner and Lois Clarke’s love story began with a chance meeting and a quick wedding, showing that love at first sight can last a lifetime.
- James Garner Married for 58 Years: Despite a few separations, James and Lois were married for nearly 58 years.
- James Garner’s Family: Garner adopted Lois’s daughter, Kimberly, and together they had one biological daughter, Gigi.
- Supportive Relationship: Lois Clarke was a constant support for James throughout his life, especially during his health issues and career challenges.
- Public Persona vs. Private Life: While James Garner was a famous actor, he maintained a relatively private and devoted family life.
In conclusion, James Garner’s marriage to Lois Clarke was a testament to their enduring love and commitment. Despite the challenges and rumors, they stayed together, proving that love and understanding can overcome all obstacles.