Teddy Wilson was an American jazz pianist best known as a key figure in the swing era and for his collaborative work with singer Billie Holiday. Public interest in his personal life often converges on his marital status, especially his union with Holiday.
Wilson was married to Billie Holiday from 1936 to 1940. There is no verified evidence of subsequent marriages after their divorce. As of his death in 1986, no public records indicate he remarried. This status clarification summarizes what is reliably documented about his marital history.
Quick Status Summary
Based on available documentation, Teddy Wilson was married to Billie Holiday and there is no verified information indicating he married again after their divorce. His marital status after 1940 is documented as unmarried.
Teddy Wilson’s Marital History
Wilson’s most prominent and well-documented marriage was to Billie Holiday. Records show they married in 1936 and divorced in 1940. The relationship is frequently discussed in jazz histories due to its personal and professional dimensions. After their divorce, there are no widely reported marriages or legal spousal records linked to Wilson.
Key Details of the Billie Holiday Marriage
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage Date | 1936 | Historical records and biographies |
| Divorce Date | 1940 | Historical records and biographies |
| Spouse | Billie Holiday | Documented legal records |
Reliable Sourcing and Verification
Information about Wilson’s marriage primarily comes from authoritative biographies, jazz histories, and reputable archives. These sources confirm the Holiday marriage and do not list additional spouses. When assessing personal status claims, prioritize documentation over speculation.
Common Misconceptions and Rumors
Rumors about Wilson’s relationship status sometimes arise from confusion with other figures or anecdotal mentions. In the absence of legal documentation or credible contemporaneous reporting, such claims should be treated as unverified. Rumor risk is elevated when discussions rely on informal anecdotes rather than archival evidence.
Contextualizing Marital Status in Biographies
For historical figures, marital status is often documented through marriage certificates, obituaries, and contemporary news. In Wilson’s case, the most salient and verified marital event is his union with Billie Holiday. Absent contradictory documentation, it is accurate to state he was married to Holiday and not known to have married again.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Was Teddy Wilson ever married? Yes, he was married to Billie Holiday from 1936 to 1940.
- Did Teddy Wilson remarry after his divorce from Billie Holiday? There is no verified evidence of a subsequent marriage.
- What are reliable sources for Wilson’s marital status? Authoritative biographies, jazz archives, and legal records related to his marriage and divorce from Billie Holiday.