If you’re like many boxing fans, you’re probably curious about the personal life of George Foreman. The legendary boxer became as famous for his grill as he did for his punches. Beyond the ring and his business ventures, his life has also been marked by multiple marriages, numerous children, and a rather unique way of naming them. Let’s take a closer look at the women who have played significant roles in his life and the family he built with them.
George Foreman’s Biography
George Edward Foreman, nicknamed “Big George,” was born on January 10, 1949. He rose to fame as a world champion boxer and successful entrepreneur. Born in Marshall, Texas, and raised in the Fifth Ward of Houston with six siblings, Foreman began training as a professional boxer after moving to California with the help of a supervisor. Before his boxing career took off, he worked as a bricklayer and carpenter.
George Foreman’s Marital Journey
George Foreman’s marital journey is quite eventful. One of the questions many people ask is, “How many times has George Foreman been married?” He has been married five times.
George has been married to Mary Joan Martelly since 1985. Prior to this marriage, he had four ex-spouses, whom we will discuss below.
George Foreman’s first ex-wife: Adrienne Calhoun (1971-1974)
Foreman’s first marriage was to Adrienne Calhoun, with whom he tied the knot in December 1971. However, the marriage faced challenges, including infidelity, as Foreman had an affair with Pamela Clay, who gave birth to his eldest son, George Foreman Jr. The marriage came to an end in February 1974. Despite their separation, Adrienne and George have a daughter together named Michi. Adrienne Calhoun had been a share of Foreman’s young life as he made the transition from emerging boxing star to world champion.
George Foreman’s second ex-wife: Cynthia Lewis/Cindy” (1977-1979)
Shortly after his first divorce, George became engaged to Cynthia Lewis, often referred to as Cindy. They were married in 1977 but just like his first marriage, this other marriage ended in a divorce barely two years later. According to The U.S Sun, they also didn’t have any children during this time. At that time, Foreman was very much involved in his boxing career and is probably the reason for the turmoil in his personal life. Later they divorced in in August 1979.
George Foreman’s third ex-wife: Sharon Goodson (1981-1982)
Two years after his second divorce, on September 15, 1981, George Foreman became engaged to Sharon Goodson and later married her. However, their marriage ended in divorce less than a year later, in April 1982. There were no children from this relationship. By this time, Foreman was known not only for his boxing but also for his business ventures, including his foray into entrepreneurship.
George Foreman’s fourth ex-wife: Andrea Skeete (1982-1985)
Foreman married Andrea Skeete in 1982, soon after his third marriage had come to an end. The couple had two children, George Foreman III and Freeda Foreman. Sadly, Freeda, who had a brief career in professional boxing, passed away in March 2019.
This marriage also ended in divorce in 1985, but Foreman remained a devoted father, staying close to his children.
George Foreman’s fifth & current wife: Mary Joan Martelly
In 1985, George Foreman married his fifth and current wife Mary Joan Martelly. Although this marriage, like the others, faced challenges, it has remained strong. They raised five children together: Leola, Natalie, George IV, George V, and George VI. Throughout his career, the couple ended up adopting two children as well: Isabella Brandie Lilja in 2009 and Courtney Isaac in 2012. This means that the family had a total of twelve children. His current wife has proved to be a pillar of support throughout his career and family.
How many children does George Foreman have, and what are their names?
George Foreman has 12 children. George famously named all his sons George, followed by a different nickname. Here’s a list of their names:
Sons:
- George Foreman Jr.
- George Foreman III (Monk)
- George Foreman IV (Big Wheel)
- George Foreman V (Red)
- George Foreman VI (Little Joey)
Daughters:
- Michi Foreman
- Freeda Foreman (deceased)
- Georgetta Foreman
- Natalie Foreman
- Leola Foreman
- Isabella Brandie Lilja (adopted)
- Courtney Isaac (adopted)
Conclusion
Like other professional boxers, George Foreman could not keep much of his personal life private. George Foreman’s life outside the ring has been just about as eventful as his in-ring career. Over time, he fought in some publicized happenings and took up some of the world’s boxing gurus like Mohammed Ali. His marriage life equally made it to the limelight with most of the marriages facing serious publications.
