Kathie Lee Gifford, a French-born television personality, is well-known for her long and successful career, particularly her partnership with Regis Philbin on “The Morning Show.” Besides her media projects and children’s books, her personal life has been a subject of public interest, including her two marriages.

Born in Paris, France, in 1953, Gifford’s family moved to the United States when she was young. Her upbringing was marked by both Jewish and Christian influences, with her Christian faith taking hold at the age of 12 after watching a Christian film.

Gifford’s early ambitions were focused on becoming an actress and singer. She gained recognition by winning her state’s Junior Miss Pageant and later formed a mentorship with Christian singer Anita Bryant in Florida. Gifford then attended Oral Roberts University and sang gospel with the World Action Singers.

However, she left the university during her junior year, feeling manipulated, and ventured into Hollywood. In 1976, she married her first husband, Paul Johnson, but their marriage was marked by difficulties, leading to a divorce in 1983, seven years after they wed. The marriage was described as lacking passion and success in establishing a comfortable sexual relationship.