Genevieve Halford carved her name into the annals of history as the former spouse of the legendary and multifaceted American actor, comedian, writer, composer, and conductor, Jackie Gleason, a figure affectionately referred to as “The Great One.” Gleason’s comedic genius and unique personas were deeply influenced by his upbringing in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, New York. Among his most cherished portrayals was that of the audacious city-bus-driver, Ralph Kramden, in the adored television series, ‘The Honeymooners’.
Beyond The Honeymooners, Gleason’s creative prowess extended to the creation and starring role in The Jackie Gleason Show, a program that consistently soared to remarkable heights in terms of viewership from the mid-1950s until 1970. Initially centered in the vibrant landscape of New York City, the show later found its home in the sun-kissed environs of Miami Beach, Florida, in 1964. This relocation was a direct reflection of Gleason’s personal choice to establish roots in the city and make it his permanent abode.
Genevieve Halford played a significant role in the life of the renowned entertainer Jackie Gleason as his former wife. Gleason’s impact on American comedy and his enduring legacy in the entertainment industry are undeniable, cementing his status as one of the most influential figures in its history.
Born in the United States in 1916, Genevieve Halford lived a devout Catholic life and ultimately passed away at the age of 96 in Manhattan, New York, on July 9, 2012.
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How Genevieve Halford married Jackie Gleason
The story of Jackie Gleason and Genevieve Halford’s relationship traces back to their shared experiences in vaudeville. Gleason, an actor and comedian, first crossed paths with Genevieve, a dancer, during their work in vaudeville, which eventually led to their courtship. While Halford desired marriage, Gleason was not ready to settle down. In response, she made it clear that she would seek other relationships if they did not marry.
A crucial turning point occurred during one of Gleason’s performances at Club Miami in Newark, New Jersey. Spotting Halford in the front row with another man, he took a bold step and proposed to her in front of her date. They eventually tied the knot on September 20, 1936.
Together, they had two daughters, Geraldine Gleason (born 1940) and Linda Miller (born 1942). However, their marriage encountered challenges as Halford sought a peaceful home life while Gleason was always busy with his nightouts. They initially separated in 1941 but reconciled in 1948. Unfortunately, they informally separated once again in 1954.
Genevieve Halford’s children with Jackie Gleason
Jackie Gleason had two children from his first marriage to Genevieve Halford. Here are more details about his children:
- Geraldine Gleason: She was born on March 28, 1940. Geraldine, often referred to as “Geri,” is Gleason’s eldest daughter. Not much information is publicly available about her personal life or career.
- Linda Miller: Linda, born on October 23, 1942, is Gleason’s second daughter. She pursued a career in acting and married actor-playwright Jason Miller. Linda and Jason Miller have a son named Jason Patric, who also became an actor known for his roles in films such as “The Lost Boys” and “Speed 2: Cruise Control.”
Genevieve Halford’s divorce with Jackie Gleason
During Gleason’s hospitalization in early 1954 following an on-air injury on his television show, Halford visited him and became aware of his relationship with dancer Marilyn Taylor, who was also present at the hospital. Taylor and Gleason continued their romance throughout the 1950s, but due to Gleason’s Catholic marriage, divorce was not an option, leading to the end of their relationship. In April 1954, Halford filed for a legal separation.
In 1970, after the divorce laws in New York were amended to permit divorce after two years of living apart, Gleason sued Halford for divorce. Halford contested the divorce, arguing that the revised law was unconstitutional since she had no prior knowledge that their 1954 separation decree would be used for divorce purposes. However, the New York Court of Appeals upheld the divorce in 1970.
Beverly McKittrick – Jackie Gleason’s second wife
Gleason’s second wife, Beverly McKittrick, was introduced to him at a country club in 1968, where she held a position as a secretary.
Jackie Gleason’s second wife was Beverly McKittrick. They got married in a registry ceremony in Ashford, England on July 4, 1970, approximately ten days after his divorce from his first wife, Genevieve Halford, was finalized.
However, their marriage encountered difficulties, and in September 1974, Jackie Gleason filed for divorce from Beverly McKittrick. McKittrick contested the divorce and asked for a reconciliation. The divorce proceedings continued, and on November 19, 1975, the divorce was granted, officially ending their marriage.
Marilyn Taylor: Gleason’s third wife
Marilyn Taylor: Gleason’s third wife was Marilyn Taylor. They got married in 1975, and their marriage lasted until Gleason’s death in 1987.
Jackie Gleason’s extramarital relationships
It’s important to note that Gleason also had other children from extramarital relationships, including a daughter named Pamela Gleason. However, the specific details and relationships regarding his children from extramarital affairs are less widely known.
How did Jackie Gleason die?
Throughout his life, Jackie Gleason faced numerous health challenges, including a heavy smoking habit, phlebitis, and diabetes. In 1978, he underwent triple-bypass surgery after experiencing chest pains while on tour. Despite keeping his health struggles out of the public eye, rumors circulated about his declining well-being. Sadly, on June 24, 1987, Gleason passed away at the age of 71 at his Florida residence.
Genevieve Halford