Who is James Taylor Married To? Everything About His Wife Caroline Smedvig and Family
James Taylor’s Current Marriage to Caroline Smedvig
James Taylor, the legendary singer-songwriter, is currently married to Caroline Smedvig. Their relationship is one built on mutual respect, shared passions, and perseverance through challenges. The two met in 1993 when James performed with the Boston Pops Orchestra, where Caroline worked in public relations for the Boston Symphony Orchestra. However, they didn’t begin dating until 1995, shortly after Taylor’s second marriage ended.
The couple tied the knot in February 2001 in a private ceremony at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Boston, attended by close friends and family. At the time, James Taylor was 53, and Caroline was 48, marking a later-in-life love story that has stood the test of time. Taylor once shared, “I’m deeply grateful for where I ended up—for my marriage, my family, my job. It’s great.” The couple’s longevity in marriage is often attributed to their maturity, emotional stability, and understanding of each other.
Who is Caroline Smedvig?
Caroline Smedvig, born on May 31, 1953, in Albany, New York, is a woman of many talents and achievements. Raised in an influential family, her father, Albert Hessberg, was a renowned lawyer, while her mother, Elisabeth Fitzsimons Goold, was a prominent figure in society. Caroline attended Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, where she likely studied a media-related course. Her professional career included being the public relations director for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, a role she excelled in for several years before stepping back from the limelight.
Before marrying Taylor, Caroline was previously married to Rolf Thorstein Smedvig, the principal trumpeter of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Their marriage, however, ended without any children, and Caroline eventually found love with James Taylor. Known for her intelligence, charm, and dedication, Caroline played a key role in Taylor’s personal and professional life, helping him stay grounded.
Summary of Caroline Smedvig’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Caroline Smedvig |
| Date of Birth | May 31, 1953 |
| Education | Smith College |
| Career | Public Relations Director at Boston Symphony Orchestra |
| Spouse | James Taylor |
| Children | Rufus and Henry (Twins) |
James Taylor’s Family and Children
James Taylor and Caroline Smedvig are proud parents of twin boys, Rufus and Henry, born in April 2001 through a surrogate. Taylor’s reluctance to have more children after his previous marriages was overcome by their desire to start a family. Their journey wasn’t easy—Caroline faced fertility challenges, but they embraced surrogacy as their path to parenthood.
In addition to his twins, Taylor has two older children with his first wife, Carly Simon. Sally and Ben Taylor, both followed in their father’s musical footsteps, with Ben frequently performing alongside James Taylor.
The Role of Caroline Smedvig in James Taylor’s Career
Caroline’s role in James Taylor’s life goes beyond being a supportive spouse. She has been a calming presence for Taylor, who has battled with personal struggles, including addiction and mental health challenges. In various interviews, Taylor has credited Caroline with helping him find stability and happiness later in life. Caroline, who has a deep appreciation for music herself, often accompanies Taylor to his concerts and events.
James Taylor’s Past Marriages
James Taylor’s journey to finding lasting love with Caroline Smedvig was not without its complications. He was first married to fellow musician Carly Simon in 1972, a high-profile relationship that captivated the public due to their shared musical prowess. However, the marriage dissolved in 1983, in part due to Taylor’s struggles with substance abuse. He later married actress Kathryn Walker in 1985, a relationship that helped him overcome his addiction. Unfortunately, that marriage also ended in divorce in 1996.
Character Quotes and Authenticated Evidence
- “I’m deeply grateful for where I ended up—for my marriage, my family, my job. It’s great.” – James Taylor on his marriage to Caroline Smedvig (Source: Parade interview, 2022) [8]
- “The key to our marriage’s success is maturity. We were both ready for a committed relationship.” – James Taylor (Interview with Smooth Radio, 2023) [11]
Why Did James Taylor and Carly Simon Divorce?
James Taylor’s first marriage to Carly Simon was plagued by personal issues, including Taylor’s substance abuse problems. Though they shared an undeniable chemistry, both personally and musically, their marriage couldn’t withstand these challenges. Carly Simon has spoken candidly about the heartbreak of their divorce, while Taylor has acknowledged that their relationship, although turbulent, was transformative for him both as an artist and as a person.
Kathryn Walker’s Influence on James Taylor
Kathryn Walker played a significant role in helping Taylor overcome his addiction. Their marriage, which lasted from 1985 to 1996, was one that saw Taylor working towards sobriety. Walker’s support during this challenging time is often overlooked, but Taylor has mentioned her influence in interviews, noting that she helped him through some of his darkest periods. Despite the ultimate failure of their marriage, Walker’s role in Taylor’s recovery is an important part of his personal journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did James Taylor marry Caroline Smedvig?
They married on February 18, 2001, in a private ceremony at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Boston. - How many times has James Taylor been married?
James Taylor has been married three times: to Carly Simon (1972–1983), Kathryn Walker (1985–1996), and Caroline Smedvig (2001–present). - How many children does James Taylor have?
James Taylor has four children: two with Carly Simon (Sally and Ben), and twin boys, Rufus and Henry, with Caroline Smedvig. - What does Caroline Smedvig do for a living?
Caroline Smedvig was formerly the director of public relations for the Boston Symphony Orchestra and has a background in journalism.
References:
www.grunge.com/731725/the-truth-about-james-taylors-wife-caroline-smedvig/
www.featuredbiography.com/james-taylor-wives/
www.heightline.com/caroline-smedvig-james-taylor-wife/
www.smoothradio.com/artists/james-taylor/wife-children/
www.nextbiography.com/who-is-james-taylor-wife/
