Aretha Franklin, the iconic American singer known as the “Queen of Soul,” had a tumultuous relationship with her husband, Ted White. Their marriage, which spanned several decades, was marked by both love and conflict, reflecting the complexity of Franklin’s personal life alongside her extraordinary musical career.
Ted White, a former boxer, met Aretha Franklin in 1961 when she was just 20 years old. The two were married on February 10, 1961, in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Their relationship was initially a whirlwind romance, but it soon became apparent that their union would be fraught with challenges. White was known for his volatile temperament and had a history of domestic violence, which would cast a long shadow over their marriage.
Despite the difficulties, Aretha Franklin remained committed to her husband for many years. She often spoke about the love she had for White, even as she grappled with the hardships of their relationship. “I love him,” Franklin said in a 1972 interview. “I’m not going to let him get the best of me. I’m going to be the best wife I can be to him.”
The couple had two sons together, Ted White Jr. and Kecalf Franklin, who were born in 1964 and 1966, respectively. However, their marriage continued to be tumultuous, with Franklin often seeking refuge in her music to cope with the emotional turmoil. The strain of their relationship eventually led to their separation in 1979, and they divorced in 1984.
Aretha Franklin’s marriage to Ted White was a defining aspect of her personal life, and it has been the subject of much scrutiny and speculation over the years. Despite the challenges, Franklin’s resilience and dedication to her family were evident in her music and in her ability to rise above the turmoil. Her legacy as a musical icon remains unshaken, and her story continues to inspire fans and admirers around the world.
