Who Is Kathie Lee Gifford’s New Partner? All About Her Recent Split and Past Relationships

Kathie Lee Gifford, the beloved television personality and former co-host of TODAY, has captivated audiences for decades with her charm, wit, and resilience. Known for her warm presence and candidness, Kathie Lee has navigated both the highs and lows of her personal and professional life with grace. While her public life has often been under the spotlight, her personal journey—marked by relationships, family, and self-discovery—has been one of transformation and growth. Now, as she embraces a new chapter in her life, Kathie Lee Gifford’s journey continues to inspire.

Who Is Kathie Lee Gifford’s New Partner?

After the end of her previous relationship, Kathie Lee Gifford confirmed that she is indeed navigating life without a partner. In an interview with People in April 2024, she opened up about her newfound independence and how her personal mantra has evolved. “My joy is non-negotiable,” Kathie Lee shared, explaining that while she’s willing to negotiate time and money, her happiness is something she now prioritizes above all else.

Kathie Lee’s romantic life has been a subject of speculation, especially after her 2015 loss of her beloved husband Frank Gifford. Following Frank’s passing, Kathie Lee moved on with an unnamed man, whom she spoke fondly about in 2021, describing him as a “very sweet” individual who made her feel valued. However, as of 2024, Kathie Lee confirmed that they have since parted ways. Despite the emotional toll of the breakup, she is embracing her newfound freedom and looking forward to what the future holds.

Kathie Lee’s Past Relationships and Marriages

Kathie Lee Gifford and Frank Gifford, seen here in 2008, were married nearly 30 years and had two children.
Source: Richard Corkery

Kathie Lee Gifford’s relationship history has been a blend of love, heartache, and ultimately, growth. Before marrying Frank Gifford, Kathie Lee was wed to composer Paul Johnson from 1976 to 1983. However, it was her nearly three-decade-long marriage to Frank that marked the most significant chapter of her personal life. The couple, who married in 1986, shared two children: son Cody (34) and daughter Cassidy (30).

Throughout their marriage, Kathie Lee and Frank’s relationship was rocked by scandal, including an affair that Frank had with a flight attendant in the late 1990s. Despite the tumultuous period, Kathie Lee and Frank remained together until his death in 2015. While Kathie Lee has spoken about the challenges of dealing with his infidelity, she emphasized her desire to move forward in a positive and healthy way, stating, “I didn’t want to be that bitter, angry, unhappy person.”

Kathie Lee Gifford’s Latest Breakup and New Mantra

Kathie Lee Gifford pictured with her ex-boyfriend, Richard Spitz.
Source: US Sun

Though Kathie Lee’s previous relationship in the late 2020s ended on a bittersweet note, it has only propelled her to a new sense of self-awareness. Reflecting on her past relationships, Kathie Lee remarked, “You aren’t supposed to marry everyone you fall in love with.” This perspective has fueled her decision to prioritize her joy above all else, especially after the emotional rollercoaster of her last breakup.

In a candid discussion, Kathie Lee explained that she had been in a relationship for several years before parting ways, though she remains committed to living authentically and on her own terms. “My joy is non-negotiable,” she reiterated, reinforcing that she has learned the importance of cherishing her happiness above external expectations. She also confirmed that, should she meet someone special in the future, she intends to keep it private. “We’ll probably get married privately and tell the world a year later,” she shared with a knowing smile.

Kathie Lee Gifford’s Personal Growth and New Life in Nashville

In recent years, Kathie Lee has relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, where she has embraced a quieter, more private lifestyle. Since moving, Kathie Lee has found peace in her new surroundings, frequently sharing her gratitude for the tranquility of her life there. Despite her public persona, she has discovered that keeping her relationships and love life under wraps has allowed them to remain special. “I’ve discovered that by not talking about it, it stays special,” Kathie Lee shared in 2022, emphasizing her desire to enjoy the simple pleasures of life without external interference.

Her home in Nashville, a $3.7 million brownstone with six bedrooms and a private courtyard, serves as a sanctuary from the public eye. Kathie Lee has focused on her own well-being, including a new passion for health and fitness. Though her life has shifted in many ways, she remains committed to her family, which has been a central part of her world.

Kathie Lee’s Family and Children

Cassidy, Kathie Lee, and Cody Gifford.
Source: Buckner/Variety/REX/Shutterstock

Kathie Lee’s children, Cody and Cassidy, have always been her source of strength. While they may have been critical of some of her past relationships, especially the one with her former boyfriend Richard Spitz, it is clear that family remains her number one priority. Cassidy and Cody have both voiced concern over Kathie Lee’s romantic choices, particularly with Richard, whom they believed wasn’t the right match for their mother. In 2023, Kathie Lee’s relationship with Richard ended, and she has since returned to a more independent lifestyle, surrounded by the support of her children.

FAQs

Is Kathie Lee Gifford currently in a relationship? No, Kathie Lee Gifford confirmed in 2024 that she is not currently in a relationship. She parted ways with her previous partner, and she is now focusing on her own happiness.

Who was Kathie Lee Gifford’s last partner? Kathie Lee Gifford’s last known partner was Richard Spitz, a businessman from Tennessee. They began dating in 2021 but ended their relationship in 2024.

Did Kathie Lee Gifford remarry after Frank Gifford’s death? No, Kathie Lee Gifford has not remarried after the death of her husband Frank Gifford in 2015. She has had relationships since then, but has not publicly married again.

What is Kathie Lee Gifford’s mantra? Kathie Lee Gifford’s new mantra is, “My joy is non-negotiable.” She shared that she now prioritizes her happiness and well-being above all else, learning to focus on what truly matters in life.

Where does Kathie Lee Gifford live now? Kathie Lee Gifford currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee, where she enjoys a quieter and more private lifestyle away from the public eye.