Morgan Freeman is a legendary actor known for his commanding presence on screen, but little is known about his first wife, Jeanette Adair Bradshaw. While their marriage took place before Freeman became a global star, Bradshaw remains a figure of curiosity for those interested in the actor’s personal life. This article explores her background, marriage to Freeman, and what is known about her today.
Who is Jeanette Adair Bradshaw?
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw is best recognized for her relationship with Morgan Freeman. She was born in the 1940s in the United States and is of African-American descent. Despite being once married to one of Hollywood’s most respected actors, Bradshaw has largely stayed out of the public eye following their divorce.
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Early Life
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw was born in the 1940s, a period of profound transformation in American society. This decade saw the aftermath of the Great Depression, the impact of World War II, and the early foundations of the civil rights movement. As an African American woman growing up during this era, she would have witnessed the struggles and resilience of her community firsthand. The fight for racial equality was gaining momentum, and women were beginning to challenge traditional roles, seeking greater independence and opportunities in various fields. These social changes undoubtedly influenced her worldview, shaping her perspectives on life, family, and personal growth.
Despite the limited publicly available information about her early years, it is clear that Jeanette developed a strong sense of resilience and adaptability. She grew up during a time when African Americans faced systemic discrimination, and women were still expected to conform to traditional gender roles. Yet, many individuals of her generation, particularly women in the African American community, displayed remarkable strength in overcoming these societal barriers. It is likely that these experiences played a crucial role in shaping Jeanette’s character, fostering a deep belief in independence, self-determination, and perseverance.
Wiki
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Jeanette Adair Bradshaw |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Year | 1940s |
| Age (as of 2025) | 81s |
| Birthplace | United States of America |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Husband | Morgan Freeman |
| Children | Deena Adair, Morgana Freeman |
How Did Jeanette Adair Bradshaw and Morgan Freeman Meet?
Jeanette and Morgan’s love story began in the early 1960s when Freeman was pursuing an acting career after serving in the U.S. Air Force from 1955 to 1959. At the time, Jeanette was a single mother, raising a daughter from a previous relationship. The couple shared a deep bond and dated for several years before tying the knot on October 22, 1967.
Marriage and Divorce
Bradshaw and Freeman remained married for 12 years. Their union, however, ended on November 18, 1979. While the reasons for their divorce remain private, the split marked the end of a significant chapter in both of their lives. Unlike Freeman, who continued his journey to stardom, Bradshaw chose to remain outside the limelight.
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Children
Bradshaw is a mother of two daughters:
- Deena Adair (born in 1963) – She was Jeanette’s daughter from a previous relationship, whom Morgan Freeman later adopted.
- Morgana Freeman (born in 1971) – She is the only biological child of Bradshaw and Freeman together.
Deena Adair Career and Family Life
Deena Adair built a career in the entertainment industry, specializing in makeup artistry for film and television. With a passion for creative expression, she contributed her skills to several major Hollywood productions, helping actors transform into their on-screen personas. Some of her notable projects include Chain Reaction (1996), Oblivion (2013), and Thunder Force (2021). Her work behind the scenes reflected both technical expertise and artistic vision, allowing her to carve out a respectable name in the industry. While she did not seek the spotlight herself, her contributions played a crucial role in enhancing the visual storytelling of the films she worked on.
Beyond her professional achievements, Deena also had a deeply personal role as a mother. In 1982, she welcomed her daughter, E’Dena Hines, into the world. E’Dena grew up surrounded by the influence of the entertainment industry and was known for her vibrant personality and ambitions. However, tragedy struck in 2015 when E’Dena’s life was tragically cut short in an incident that garnered national media attention. Her passing was a devastating loss for Deena and those who knew and loved E’Dena.
Despite the challenges and hardships she has faced, Deena Adair’s legacy extends through both her professional contributions and personal resilience. Her work in Hollywood showcases her dedication to the craft, while her journey as a mother reflects the depth of her love and strength. Though she maintains a private life, her impact remains evident in the creative world she helped shape.
Morgana Freeman Public Appearances
Unlike Deena, Morgana has maintained a lower profile. However, she has occasionally accompanied her father to major Hollywood events, including the Academy Awards in 1990 and 2010 and the SAG Awards in 2018.
Where is Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Now?
Since her divorce from Freeman, Bradshaw has chosen a life away from media attention. There are no confirmed reports regarding her current location or activities, as she prefers to keep her personal affairs private.
Does Morgan Freeman Have Other Children?
Yes, in addition to Deena and Morgana, Freeman has two other children from previous relationships:
- Alfonso Freeman (born in 1959)
- Saifoulaye Freeman (born in 1960)
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Net Worth
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw’s financial status remains largely private, with estimates suggesting her net worth falls between $1 million and $5 million as of 2024. While specific details about her income sources are not publicly available, it is believed that a portion of her wealth may be linked to her past marriage to Morgan Freeman. Additionally, she may have made personal investments or acquired assets over the years that contributed to her financial standing. However, due to her preference for a life away from media scrutiny, little is known about her exact financial portfolio or professional endeavors.
FAQs About Deena Adair
Q: Who is Deena Adair?
A: Deena Adair is a Hollywood makeup artist known for her work in films like Chain Reaction (1996), Oblivion (2013), and Thunder Force (2021).
Q: What is Deena Adair’s connection to Morgan Freeman?
A: Deena Adair is the daughter of Jeanette Adair Bradshaw, who was Morgan Freeman’s first wife.
Q: Did Deena Adair have children?
A: Yes, Deena Adair was the mother of E’Dena Hines, who was born in 1982.
Q: What happened to E’Dena Hines?
A: E’Dena Hines tragically passed away in 2015 in a widely publicized case.
Q: Is Deena Adair still working in Hollywood?
A: While she has worked on several well-known films, there is limited public information about her recent projects.
Final Thoughts
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw may have been married to one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, but she has remained a private individual despite public curiosity about her life. Her story is one of love, family, and choosing to live away from the limelight. While Freeman’s career soared, Bradshaw carved out her own path, opting for a quiet life outside the glare of fame.
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