Discover the life of Jeanette Adair Bradshaw, Morgan Freeman’s first wife. Learn about her biography, age, children, net worth, life after divorce, and the family tragedy that affected her deeply.
Quick Facts About Jeanette Adair Bradshaw
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jeanette Adair Bradshaw |
| Birth Year | 1940s (estimated born November 30, 1940) |
| Age | 84-85 years old (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (1.7 meters) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Husband | Morgan Freeman (married 1967-1979) |
| Children | Two daughters: Deena Adair and Morgana Freeman |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1-5 million |
| Famous For | Being Morgan Freeman’s first wife |
| Current Status | Living privately, location undisclosed |
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Biography
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw represents a remarkable story of grace and dignity in an era where celebrity culture often demands constant visibility. Born during the 1940s in the United States, she grew up during a transformative period in American history. Unlike many who find themselves connected to Hollywood stars, Jeanette deliberately chose a path away from the spotlight, maintaining her privacy with unwavering commitment.
She is of African-American ethnicity and was raised in a modest family environment. Her father reportedly served as a soldier during World War II, while her mother managed the household. Details about her education and early professional life remain scarce, as Jeanette has always valued personal privacy over public attention.
Before meeting Morgan Freeman, she worked various jobs including positions as a waitress, chef, and florist. These humble beginnings shaped her character and grounded approach to life, qualities that would serve her well throughout the challenges ahead.
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Age
Jeanette was born in the 1940s in the USA, with some sources suggesting her birth date as November 30, 1940. As of 2025, she is approximately 84-85 years old. Despite being in her mid-eighties, Jeanette has maintained her commitment to privacy, rarely making public appearances and staying away from media attention.
Her age places her about three years younger than her famous ex-husband, Morgan Freeman, who was born on June 1, 1937. The couple’s age difference was minimal, and they shared many formative experiences during their time together in the 1960s and 1970s.
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Morgan Freeman
The relationship between Jeanette Adair Bradshaw and Morgan Freeman began in the early 1960s, long before Freeman became a household name. They reportedly met while both worked at a travel agency, during a time when Freeman was taking on ordinary jobs to support himself while pursuing his acting dreams.
Their Early Relationship
The couple dated for about five years before tying the knot, demonstrating that their relationship was built on a solid foundation of patience and mutual understanding. During their courtship, Freeman was struggling to establish himself in theater and television, facing numerous rejections and financial hardships.
Marriage and Support
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw married Morgan Freeman on October 22, 1967, at a pivotal moment in Freeman’s career. At the time of their marriage, Freeman had not yet achieved the fame that would later define his legacy. He was performing in small theater productions and taking on minor television roles, working tirelessly to break into the industry.
Throughout their marriage, Jeanette provided stability and unwavering support. She was there when he landed his breakthrough role on The Electric Company (1971-1977), introducing him to millions of viewers. This children’s educational program became Freeman’s first significant exposure to mainstream audiences, marking the beginning of his rise to prominence.
The End of Their Marriage
After twelve years together, the couple divorced on November 18, 1979. The exact reasons for their separation have never been publicly disclosed, reflecting both parties’ commitment to privacy and mutual respect. Neither Jeanette nor Morgan has ever spoken negatively about the other in public forums, suggesting they parted on amicable terms despite the challenges they faced.
In an interview with The Telegram, Morgan spoke of his marriage and parenting journey, acknowledging the difficulties of balancing his acting ambitions with family responsibilities during those formative years.
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Children
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw is the mother of two daughters, each with distinct paths and accomplishments. Her role as a mother has been central to her identity, even as she maintained her distance from public life.
Deena Adair Freeman
Deena is Jeanette’s daughter from a previous relationship, whom Morgan Freeman adopted shortly after their marriage in 1967. The adoption process presented challenges due to legislative actions at the time that complicated the adoption of girls, but Freeman persevered to officially become Deena’s father.
Deena pursued a successful career in Hollywood, though not in front of the camera. She became a highly respected hair and makeup artist, receiving two Primetime Emmy Award nominations for outstanding hairstyling in Ring of Fire and Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story. With over 60 credits to her name, Deena has worked on numerous high-profile projects including superhero films like Loki, Chain Reaction, Oblivion, Thunder Force, and Civil War.
As of 2025, Deena is approximately 60 years old with an estimated net worth of $800,000, having built a distinguished career through talent and dedication.
Morgana Freeman
Morgana Freeman is the biological daughter of Jeanette and Morgan, born in 1971. She represents the couple’s shared legacy and has maintained positive relationships with both parents despite their divorce.
Morgana has made several public appearances with her father at prestigious events, including the 1990 Academy Awards, the 2010 Academy Awards, and the 2018 SAG Awards. She works as an actress and, as of 2025, is 54 years old with an estimated net worth of $1 million.
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Photos
Finding photographs of Jeanette Adair Bradshaw is remarkably difficult, reflecting her lifelong commitment to privacy. The few images that exist are primarily from her years with Morgan Freeman, including:
- A rare photograph from the Mighty Gents Broadway opening party, where she appeared alongside Freeman
- Archived photos from the 1960s and 1970s during their marriage
- Limited images from family events during their time together
She is inactive on social media, making Jeanette Adair Bradshaw’s photos scarcely available. Unlike modern celebrities and their families who document every moment on social platforms, Jeanette has deliberately avoided all forms of digital exposure, maintaining her privacy in an increasingly connected world.
The scarcity of her photographs speaks volumes about her character and priorities. She never sought to capitalize on her connection to Freeman, choosing instead to live authentically and away from cameras.
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Net Worth
According to Popular Net Worth, Global Stardom, and Biographs Life, Jeanette Adair Bradshaw has an alleged net worth of between $1 million and $5 million. However, exact figures remain speculative due to her private nature and refusal to discuss financial matters publicly.
Sources of Wealth
Her estimated net worth likely includes several components:
- Divorce Settlement: Following her separation from Morgan Freeman in 1979, Jeanette received a financial settlement that provided her with long-term security.
- Personal Investments: Over the decades since her divorce, she has likely maintained investments and managed her assets prudently.
- Privacy Over Profit: Unlike many celebrity ex-spouses who monetize their connections through books, interviews, or media appearances, Jeanette has never attempted to profit from her relationship with Freeman.
Comparison to Morgan Freeman’s Wealth
In stark contrast to Jeanette’s modest net worth, Morgan Freeman has accumulated extraordinary wealth throughout his decades-long career. As of 2024, Freeman’s net worth exceeds $250 million, derived from his extensive work as an actor, director, narrator, and through various endorsements and business ventures.
The significant disparity in their financial situations highlights Jeanette’s choice to live simply rather than pursue wealth or fame through her association with Freeman.
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Today
Following her divorce from the Million Dollar Baby actor, she withdrew from the public eye, making no public appearances since 2015 at her granddaughter’s funeral. Her current whereabouts and daily life remain largely unknown to the public, exactly as she prefers.
Current Life and Location
Some reports suggest that Jeanette may be residing in Georgia, United States, living a peaceful and quiet life. However, these details cannot be confirmed as she has successfully maintained her privacy for over four decades.
At 84-85 years old, Jeanette presumably focuses on personal well-being, family relationships, and the simple pleasures of life away from media scrutiny. She has no social media presence, has not given interviews, and continues to avoid any form of public attention.
Health and Well-being
While specific information about her current health status is not publicly available, her continued privacy suggests she values peace and personal autonomy above all else. Her decision to remain out of the spotlight demonstrates remarkable consistency and self-awareness.
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Life After Divorce
After her separation from Morgan Freeman, Jeanette Adair Bradshaw completely withdrew from the public eye. Her life after divorce stands as a powerful example of choosing dignity and privacy over celebrity and attention.
Immediate Post-Divorce Years
Following their 1979 divorce, Jeanette made the conscious decision to step away entirely from any association with Hollywood or entertainment circles. While Freeman went on to marry costume designer Myrna Colley-Lee in 1984 (a marriage that lasted until 2010), Jeanette’s romantic life remained private.
There is no public record or credible evidence suggesting that Jeanette remarried after her divorce from Freeman. She appears to have focused entirely on raising her daughters, maintaining family relationships, and building a life defined by personal values rather than public validation.
Professional Life
Details about Jeanette’s career or professional pursuits after her divorce remain unknown. She never sought employment in entertainment, never wrote a memoir, and never participated in interviews about her famous ex-husband. This remarkable restraint distinguishes her from many who find themselves in similar positions.
Personal Philosophy
Jeanette’s life after divorce reflects several core principles:
- Privacy as a right: She treats personal boundaries as sacred, refusing to compromise them for money or attention
- Dignity over drama: Rather than engaging in public disputes or tell-all revelations, she maintained respectful silence
- Family first: Her focus remained on her daughters and extended family rather than personal fame
- Authentic living: She chose to live according to her own values rather than society’s expectations
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Ethnicity
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw is of African-American ethnicity, having been born and raised in the United States during the 1940s. Her background places her within a specific historical and cultural context that shaped her experiences and worldview.
Growing up as an African-American woman in mid-20th century America meant navigating complex social dynamics, racial tensions, and limited opportunities compared to today. The civil rights movement was unfolding during her formative years, creating both challenges and opportunities for African-Americans seeking better lives.
Her cultural heritage and background likely influenced her relationship with Morgan Freeman, as both shared similar experiences and understood the unique challenges facing African-Americans in the entertainment industry during the 1960s and 1970s. Freeman’s breakthrough came at a time when opportunities for Black actors were still limited, and Jeanette’s support during those years was undoubtedly shaped by their shared cultural understanding.
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw Family Tragedy
The most devastating chapter in Jeanette Adair Bradshaw’s life came in August 2015 with the tragic murder of her granddaughter, E’Dena Hines. This heartbreaking event brought Jeanette’s name back into public consciousness, though she remained private even in grief.
E’Dena Hines: A Life Cut Short
E’Dena Hines, 33, was killed in New York City by her boyfriend, Lamar Davenport, in August 2015. E’Dena was Deena Adair’s daughter and Jeanette’s granddaughter, though she had been raised in Morgan Freeman’s household with his second wife, Myrna Colley-Lee.
E’Dena Hines, granddaughter of Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman, was tragically killed in 2015 after being stabbed by her boyfriend 25 times. The attack occurred near her Washington Heights apartment building in Manhattan during the early morning hours of August 16, 2015.
The Circumstances of the Tragedy
Prosecutors said Lamar Davenport fatally stabbed his girlfriend while under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Witnesses reported hearing E’Dena ask “Why are you doing this?” as she pleaded for her life during the brutal attack.
The killer began screaming that he needed to release “the devil out of her” during the assault, suggesting he was experiencing a drug-induced psychosis. Police sources confirmed that Davenport was under the influence of PCP at the time of the murder.
Legal Outcome
Lamar Davenport, 33, was convicted of first-degree manslaughter in a bench trial in May 2018 and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. During his sentencing hearing, Davenport issued an apology and claimed he did not remember what happened.
Morgan Freeman’s Statement
Freeman released a statement following the tragedy that captured the family’s profound loss: “The world will never know her artistry and talent and how much she had to offer. Her star will continue to shine bright in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.”
E’Dena’s Aspirations
E’Dena Hines was an aspiring actress who had recently returned to New York to pursue her dreams. She appeared in a small role in the movie “5 Flights Up” alongside Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton. In a blog post written before her death, she described herself as energetic, loud, and animated, and expressed excitement about finally achieving her dreams after years of perseverance.
Impact on Jeanette
While Jeanette Adair Bradshaw made no public statements following this tragedy, the loss undoubtedly devastated her and the entire family. She withdrew from the public eye, making no public appearances since 2015 at her granddaughter’s funeral.
The family tragedy serves as a reminder that even those who live privately and avoid the spotlight are not immune to profound suffering and loss. For Jeanette, who had already experienced the challenges of divorce and the complexities of blended families, this represented an unimaginable heartbreak.
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Jeanette Adair Bradshaw’s Legacy
Though she never sought fame or recognition, Jeanette Adair Bradshaw’s legacy extends beyond her role as Morgan Freeman’s first wife. Her life represents several important themes:
The Power of Private Dignity
In an era obsessed with celebrity culture, social media exposure, and constant self-promotion, Jeanette’s commitment to privacy stands as a powerful counter-narrative. She demonstrates that it is possible to live a meaningful life without public validation or attention.
Support Behind Success
She was present during the years when success was uncertain, and dreams were just beginning to take shape. Her support of Morgan Freeman during his struggling years contributed to the foundation that allowed him to become one of Hollywood’s most respected actors.
Resilience and Strength
From supporting a struggling actor through uncertain times, to navigating divorce with grace, to enduring the devastating loss of a granddaughter, Jeanette has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Her ability to maintain her dignity and privacy through all of these challenges speaks to profound inner strength.
Family Values
Above all else, Jeanette prioritized family relationships over fame, money, or public recognition. Her focus remained consistently on her daughters and grandchildren, building meaningful connections rather than pursuing superficial celebrity.
Conclusion
Jeanette Adair Bradshaw’s story is one of quiet strength, unwavering dignity, and deliberate privacy in a world that constantly demands exposure. As Morgan Freeman’s first wife, she stood by his side during the formative years of his career, providing support and stability when the future was uncertain.
Her life after divorce exemplifies a different kind of success—one measured not in dollars or fame, but in personal authenticity, family relationships, and the peace that comes from living according to one’s own values. Even in the face of profound tragedy, including the devastating loss of her granddaughter E’Dena Hines, Jeanette maintained her commitment to privacy and dignity.
Today, at approximately 84-85 years old, Jeanette Adair Bradshaw continues to live privately, her exact whereabouts and daily life known only to those closest to her. Her legacy reminds us that not all significant lives are lived in the spotlight, and that sometimes the most profound influence happens away from cameras and public attention.
In a culture that often equates visibility with value, Jeanette Adair Bradshaw stands as proof that a life well-lived can be quiet, private, and profoundly meaningful—all at the same time.
