Who is Alvin Martin? All about the father of Whoopi Goldberg’s daughter — Alex

Alvin Louise Martin, an American drug counsellor and former spouse of the legendary Whoopi Goldberg, was born on July 29, 1958, in Merseyside, England. Known primarily for his connection to the iconic actress and TV personality, Alvin’s life story is a compelling narrative of support, love, and individual achievement.

Who is Alvin Martin?

Alvin Martin, best known as Whoopi Goldberg’s first husband, is an English-American drug counsellor whose life story is intertwined deeply with that of the iconic actress. Born on July 29, 1958, in Merseyside, England, Martin has carved out a distinct identity for himself as a professional drug counsellor, helping many battle addiction. Despite his quiet and private lifestyle, his relationship with Whoopi Goldberg thrust him into the limelight during the early stages of her career.

How did Alvin Martin and Whoopi Goldberg Meet?

Whoopi Goldberg and her first husband, Alvin Martin.
Source: CitiMuzik

Alvin Martin met Whoopi Goldberg in the late 1970s at a comedy club in New York City. At the time, Goldberg was struggling with substance abuse and grappling with her identity, prompting her to seek help at a rehabilitation program where Martin worked as a counsellor. Their relationship blossomed beyond the professional, as Martin saw a vulnerability and potential in Goldberg that drew him closer.

How did Alvin Martin rise to prominence?

Though Alvin Martin may not be a household name independently, his marriage to Whoopi Goldberg thrust him into the limelight. Their relationship began when Goldberg, then struggling with addiction and homelessness, met Martin, a drug counsellor, at a rehab center where he worked. Their professional relationship blossomed into a personal connection, leading to their marriage in 1973.

What was the nature of Alvin and Whoopi’s relationship?

Their relationship, which began in a rehabilitation center, grew into a supportive and loving partnership. Martin was a grounding presence in Goldberg’s life, providing stability and encouragement as she navigated her early career in entertainment. This bond quickly deepened, leading to their marriage in 1973, which coincided with a transformative period in Goldberg’s life, marked by her pregnancy and early career struggles.

What does Alvin Martin do for a living?

Professionally, Alvin Martin dedicated his career to helping others as a drug counsellor. His work involved supporting individuals battling addiction, a role that was pivotal in his initial connection with Whoopi Goldberg during her time in rehabilitation.

When did Alvin Martin marry Whoopi Goldberg, and how long did their marriage last?

Alvin Martin married Whoopi Goldberg in 1973. Their marriage lasted six years, during which they welcomed their daughter, Alexandrea “Alex” Martin. Though filled with support and mutual growth, the union ended in 1979 as Goldberg’s career began to take off, and their paths diverged.

Who are Alvin Martin’s children and grandchildren?

Whoopi Goldberg, daughter Alex Martin and granddaughter Jerzey Dean.
Source: Instagram

Alvin Martin and Whoopi Goldberg’s daughter, Alexandrea Martin, was born on May 9, 1973. Alex Martin followed in her mother’s footsteps into the entertainment industry, carving out her niche as an actress and producer. Alvin Martin is a grandfather to Alex’s three children—Amarah Skye, Jerzey Dean, and Mason Dean—and a great-grandfather to Amarah’s daughter, Charli Rose.

How did Alvin Martin influence Whoopi Goldberg’s career?

Alvin Martin’s influence on Goldberg’s career and personal development was profound. His support during her formative years in the industry and their marriage enabled her to pursue her acting dreams relentlessly. Martin’s belief in her talent was a critical factor in her rise to stardom, exemplified by her achievement as one of the few EGOT winners.

What impact did their relationship have on their daughter, Alex?

Their daughter, Alex Martin, benefited from the solid parental foundation laid by both Martin and Goldberg. Raised in an environment that valued creativity and resilience, Alex developed into a successful actress and producer, attributing her grounded persona and career achievements to the upbringing and examples set by her parents.

What is known about Alvin Martin’s net worth?

Details about Alvin Martin’s net worth are scarce as he has maintained a low profile after his separation from Whoopi Goldberg. In contrast, Whoopi Goldberg has achieved substantial financial success, with a net worth estimated at $60 million as of 2025.

FAQs

Is Alvin Martin still alive? As of the latest updates, Alvin Martin is still alive and continues to lead a life away from the public eye, dedicated to his work as a drug counsellor.

What does Alvin Martin do for a living? Alvin Martin is a professional drug counsellor, a career he has maintained for several decades, emphasizing his commitment to aiding others in overcoming drug addiction.

Why did Alvin Martin and Whoopi Goldberg divorce? The couple divorced in 1979 due to growing personal and professional differences, with Goldberg admitting to difficulties in committing fully to the relationship as her career took precedence.

Has Alvin Martin remarried since his divorce from Whoopi Goldberg? No, Alvin Martin has not remarried since his divorce. He has chosen to keep his personal life private, focusing on his career and family.