John William McDonald is a name that often surfaces in discussions about the legendary Eartha Kitt. While Kitt’s career as a singer, actress, and activist is well-documented, her personal life, particularly her marriage to McDonald, remains a subject of intrigue. This article delves into the life of John William McDonald, exploring his background, his relationship with Eartha Kitt, and his life after their separation.
Quick Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | John William McDonald |
| Born | April 12, 1923, Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Died | May 12, 2005 (aged 82) |
| Profession | Accountant, Businessman, Real Estate Investor |
| Military Service | U.S. Army Veteran, Korean War |
| Spouse | Eartha Kitt (married 1960–1964) |
| Children | Kitt Shapiro (daughter) |
| Notable Roles | Eartha Kitt’s ex-husband; father of Kitt Shapiro |
Early Life and Background
John William McDonald was born on April 12, 1923, in Los Angeles, California. He hailed from a family of German-Irish descent and grew up in the United States. McDonald pursued higher education at the University of Southern California, where he studied accounting. His academic background laid the foundation for his future career in business and real estate.
In the early 1950s, McDonald enlisted in the U.S. Army and served during the Korean War. His time in the military was marked by significant hardships; he sustained severe injuries from grenade explosions, leading to 25 surgeries. These experiences had a profound impact on his life, both physically and mentally.
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Meeting Eartha Kitt
McDonald met Eartha Kitt in 1957 through a mutual friend, Bob Dix. At the time, Kitt was a rising star in the entertainment industry, known for her distinctive voice and performances. Despite the racial prejudices prevalent in society, McDonald and Kitt developed a close relationship. Their connection transcended the societal norms of the era, leading to a marriage that would capture public attention.
Marriage to Eartha Kitt
On June 9, 1960, John William McDonald married Eartha Kitt. Their union was a significant event, as Kitt was an established celebrity and McDonald was a businessman with a promising future. The couple welcomed their daughter, Kitt Shapiro, on November 26, 1961. The birth of their child marked a new chapter in their lives, blending Kitt’s career with her role as a mother.
However, the pressures of Kitt’s demanding career and McDonald’s struggles with health issues began to strain their relationship. McDonald had become addicted to opioids as a result of his war injuries, and Kitt’s frequent travels for her performances added to the distance between them. In 1963, Kitt filed for divorce, citing “mental cruelty” as the reason. The divorce was finalized on March 26, 1964 .
Life After Divorce
Following the divorce, McDonald continued his career in real estate and maintained a relatively low profile. He remained involved in his daughter’s life, supporting her endeavors and maintaining a close relationship with her. McDonald’s life after the divorce was marked by a focus on his business ventures and a desire for privacy.
Legacy and Impact
John William McDonald’s legacy is intertwined with that of Eartha Kitt. While he may not have achieved the same level of fame, his role in Kitt’s life was significant. He was a supportive partner during the early years of her career and a devoted father to their daughter. His experiences as a war veteran and businessman added depth to the narrative of Kitt’s personal life.
Conclusion
John William McDonald’s life, though not as publicly celebrated as that of his ex-wife, Eartha Kitt, was rich with experiences and contributions. From his service in the Korean War to his career in real estate, McDonald’s story is one of resilience and dedication. His relationship with Eartha Kitt, though brief, was a significant chapter in both of their lives, leaving a lasting impact on their daughter and the legacy of Eartha Kitt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who was John William McDonald?
- John William McDonald was an American businessman and the ex-husband of singer and actress Eartha Kitt.
- When did John William McDonald marry Eartha Kitt?
- They married on June 9, 1960.
- How many children did John William McDonald have?
- He had one child, Kitt Shapiro.
- What was the reason for John William McDonald and Eartha Kitt’s divorce?
- Kitt cited “mental cruelty” as the reason for their separation.
- When did John William McDonald pass away?
- He passed away on May 12, 2005, at the age of 82.
- What was John William McDonald’s profession?
- He was an accountant, businessman, and real estate investor.
- Did John William McDonald serve in the military?
- Yes, he served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and sustained injuries that led to 25 surgeries.
- What was John William McDonald’s relationship with Eartha Kitt like?
- Their relationship was marked by love and challenges, leading to a divorce after four years of marriage.
- Did John William McDonald remarry after his divorce from Eartha Kitt?
- Yes, he married twice more after his divorce from Kitt.
- What is John William McDonald’s legacy?
- His legacy is remembered through his daughter, Kitt Shapiro, and his role in Eartha Kitt’s life story.
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