Harry Belafonte, also known as Harold George Bellanfanti Jr., passed away on April 25, 2023. He was a Jamaican-American singer, actor, and activist who played a significant role in introducing calypso music to global audiences during the 1950s. His album Calypso (1956) was a major success and became the first LP by a solo artist to sell over a million copies.
In addition to his achievements as a singer, actor, and activist, Harry Belafonte’s personal life was also of interest to his fans. The late Jamaican-American artist was married three times in his life, and his romantic relationships often made headlines. Along with his marriages, many were curious to know whether Belafonte had any children. Here’s everything you need to know about Harry Belafonte’s marriages and family life.
All About Harry Belafonte Wives:
Harry Belafonte’s Third Wife Pamela Frank
In 2008, Harry Belafonte married his third wife, a photographer named Pamela Frank. Pamela has two children from a previous relationship named Sarah and Lindsey. Although they kept their relationship private.
Pamela often attended events with Harry such as the NAACP Image Awards in 2013 and the opening night of Michael Moore on Broadway in 2017. She was also present when Harry received the National Order of the Legion of Honour from the French government in 2021. Sadly, on April 25, 2023, Harry Belafonte passed away at his home in New York with Pamela by his side.
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Harry Belafonte’s Second Wife, Julie Robinson
In 1957, following his divorce from Marguerite, Harry Belafonte tied the knot with his co-star in the film Carmen Jones, Julie Robinson. The couple was blessed with two children, Gina and David. Belafonte and Robinson’s romance began when they were filming the 1954 movie, and Robinson was in a relationship with Marlon Brando.
Marguerite discovered Robinson’s love letters to Belafonte, which led to their separation. While shooting the film Island in the Sun in 1957, Belafonte attempted to keep his new marriage and divorce from Marguerite under wraps, but eventually, the news became public.
Harry Belafonte’s Third Wife, Marguerite Byrd
In 1944, while serving in the Navy in Virginia, Harry Belafonte met Marguerite (née Byrd), who would later become his first wife. According to sources, the couple came from different social backgrounds, with Marguerite hailing from a middle-class family and being a sorority sister. This led to difficulties in understanding each other, as per the outlet.
Harry Belafonte and Marguerite tied the knot on June 18, 1948, and were blessed with two daughters named Adrienne and Shari Belafonte. However, their relationship hit a rough patch, and they decided to separate in 1954, while Marguerite was expecting their second child, Shari.
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Know About Harry Belafonte’s Children
Harry has two daughters, Adrienne, and Shari Belafonte, from his first marriage to Marguerite Byrd. Adrienne and her daughter Rachel Blue founded the Anir Foundation/Experience, which is involved in humanitarian work in southern Africa. Shari, on the other hand, is a multi-talented professional who works as a model, photographer, singer, and actress.
Harry has two children, David and Gina, from his marriage to Julie Robinson. David is Harry’s only son and has worked closely with him for many years. David has produced much of Harry’s later music and is currently the executive director of Belafonte Enterprises Inc. David’s wife, Malena, has also worked with Harry on one of his tours.