The legendary singer and activist Harry Belafonte wasn’t just a star on stage—he was a devoted family man. Known as the “King of Calypso,” Belafonte passed away on April 25, 2023, at the age of 96, succumbing to congestive heart failure. His longtime spokesperson, Ken Sunshine, shared the news with The New York Times. At the time of his passing, Harry was married to his third wife, Pamela Frank. Let’s take a closer look at the life and loves of this iconic figure, diving deeper into his marriage history.
Harry Belafonte’s Three Marriages: A Closer Look
Born in 1927 in Harlem, New York, Harry Belafonte had a life filled with music, activism, and love. Before becoming the global icon we all know, Harry served in World War II. His passion for performing began in the 1940s, leading to a career that spanned over seven decades. But behind the spotlight, there were three women who played significant roles in his personal life—each marriage adding a unique chapter to his story.
Harry Belafonte’s First Love: Marguerite Byrd
Harry’s first marriage was to Marguerite Byrd, a relationship that began early in his career. The couple tied the knot in 1948 and remained together until 1957. Their union brought two beautiful daughters into the world: Adrienne and Shari. While not much is publicly known about Marguerite’s personal life, it’s clear she had her own flair for the arts. Marguerite earned an acting credit for her role in the 1959 film Night of the Quarter Moon. Tragically, she passed away in 1998 at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with Harry’s early years.
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Harry Belafonte’s Second Chapter: Julie Robinson
In 1957, Harry walked down the aisle for the second time, marrying the talented actress Julie Robinson. This marriage lasted an impressive 47 years, from 1957 to 2004. Together, they welcomed two children, David and Gina, before eventually parting ways. Julie was more than just a wife; she was an accomplished actress in her own right. She appeared in several films, including Lust for Life, A Safe Place, and Buck and the Preacher. Beyond acting, Julie also worked in costume design and production, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry. Even after their divorce, Julie continued to make appearances, including a segment on “Unsung Hollywood” in 2016.
Harry Belafonte’s Final Love Story: Pamela Frank
Harry found love again in 2008 when he married Pamela Frank. Though details about Pamela’s life were kept relatively private, she worked as a photographer and was often seen by Harry’s side at various Hollywood events. Pamela was with Harry during his final days, standing by him as he passed away at their home in New York. Though they did not have children together, they became cherished grandparents to Harry’s grandchildren from his previous marriages.
Pamela was Harry’s companion during his final years, and her presence was a source of comfort and love. When Harry passed away, she was by his side, ensuring he was surrounded by the people who mattered most to him. Together, they embraced their role as grandparents, cherishing every moment with Harry’s grandchildren from his blended family.
