Jeanette Adair Bradshaw is best known as the first wife of legendary actor Morgan Freeman. Despite her connection to Hollywood fame, she has remained a private person, living her life away from the spotlight. Many people search for her to understand the woman who was once married to one of the most respected actors in the world. However, unlike Morgan Freeman, who has spent decades in the entertainment industry, Jeanette has lived a quieter, less public life. Her story is one of love, family, and personal challenges. Her marriage to Freeman, which lasted over a decade, was a significant chapter in both their lives. Although their relationship ended in divorce, Jeanette remains an essential part of Freeman’s journey, especially as the mother of his children. Her life may not be widely documented, but her influence and presence in Freeman’s early career are undeniable.
Table of Contents
Quick Information Table: Jeanette Adair Bradshaw
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Jeanette Adair Bradshaw |
Known For | First wife of Morgan Freeman |
Marriage | Married to Morgan Freeman (1967-1979) |
Children | Morgana Freeman (biological), Deena Adair (adopted by Freeman) |
Nationality | American |
Public Presence | Private life, not in the public eye |
Divorce Year | 1979 |
Life After Divorce | Lived a private life, away from the media |
Early Life and Background
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw’s early life remains largely private, with little information available about her childhood, family background, or upbringing. Unlike Morgan Freeman, whose life story is well-documented, Jeanette chose to live away from the public eye, making it difficult to trace her origins. However, it is known that she grew up in the United States and lived a relatively ordinary life before crossing paths with Freeman. There are no public records of her education, career, or personal ambitions before marriage, as she never actively sought media attention. Her early life likely shaped her values of privacy and discretion, which she maintained even after becoming connected to a Hollywood star.
Marriage to Morgan Freeman
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw married Morgan Freeman on October 22, 1967, during a time when Freeman was still striving to establish himself in the entertainment industry. Their relationship, which lasted for 12 years, saw Freeman transition from an aspiring actor to a well-recognized talent. While Freeman pursued his acting career, Jeanette played the role of a supportive wife and mother, helping to maintain stability at home. However, like many Hollywood marriages, their relationship faced difficulties, ultimately leading to their divorce in 1979. The reasons for their separation remain private, though some speculate that Freeman’s rising fame and busy career may have contributed to their differences. Despite the end of their marriage, Jeanette and Morgan Freeman remained connected through their children, and there is no public record of hostility between them after the divorce.

Family and Children
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw and Morgan Freeman raised two children, one of whom was their biological daughter, Morgana Freeman, while the other, Deena Adair, was Jeanette’s daughter from a previous relationship, whom Freeman adopted. Their family life was largely private, but their children were raised in a nurturing environment. Sadly, Jeanette faced a major personal tragedy when her granddaughter, E’Dena Hines, was tragically murdered in 2015 at the age of 33. This devastating event brought immense grief to the family, and Freeman publicly mourned the loss of his granddaughter, whom he considered like a daughter. Despite the ups and downs, Jeanette remained committed to her family, though she never publicly addressed these personal matters.
Life After Divorce
After her divorce from Morgan Freeman, Jeanette Adair Bradshaw chose to step away from the public eye entirely. Unlike Freeman, who continued to gain international fame, she lived a quiet life, avoiding media interviews and public appearances. There is little known about her personal or professional life post-divorce, as she never remarried or sought attention. While some ex-spouses of celebrities write memoirs or participate in interviews, Jeanette has chosen a path of privacy. Her decision to remain out of the limelight reflects her personal values and desire for a peaceful life away from Hollywood’s influence.
Legacy and Impact
Although Jeanette Adair Bradshaw is not a public figure, her influence in Morgan Freeman’s early life cannot be ignored. She was by his side during the years when he was still struggling to establish himself, providing support as he built his career. While she did not gain public recognition, her role as a wife and mother contributed to the stability Freeman needed before becoming one of Hollywood’s most respected actors. Even though their marriage ended in divorce, her presence remains an essential part of his personal history. In an industry where relationships often end bitterly, Jeanette and Morgan Freeman’s story stands out as one where dignity and privacy were maintained.

Conclusion
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw may not be a household name, but her connection to Morgan Freeman makes her a subject of curiosity for many. Her life story is a reminder that not everyone linked to fame seeks attention, and sometimes, the most significant figures in a celebrity’s life are those who prefer to stay out of the spotlight. Although her marriage to Freeman ended decades ago, her role in his early years remains an important chapter in his journey. Whether as a wife, mother, or grandmother, Jeanette has lived a life away from the cameras, choosing peace over publicity.
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FAQs
Who is Jeanette Adair Bradshaw?
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw is the former wife of actor Morgan Freeman. They were married for 12 years before divorcing in 1979.
Does Jeanette Adair Bradshaw have children with Morgan Freeman?
Yes, they share a daughter, Morgana Freeman, and Morgan Freeman also adopted Jeanette’s daughter, Deena Adair.
Why did Jeanette Adair Bradshaw and Morgan Freeman divorce?
The exact reasons for their divorce are not publicly known, but some speculate that Freeman’s rising fame and career pressures played a role.
What happened to Jeanette Adair Bradshaw after the divorce?
After divorcing Morgan Freeman, Jeanette chose to live a private life away from the media and has not made any public appearances.
Did Jeanette Adair Bradshaw remarry?
There is no public record of Jeanette Adair Bradshaw remarrying after her divorce from Morgan Freeman.
Is Jeanette Adair Bradshaw still alive?
There are no reports of her passing, but she continues to live a very private life, making it difficult to find recent updates.