For decades, Dean Martin was known as one of Hollywood’s coolest stars. The singer, actor and television entertainer built a remarkable career, but behind the famous name was a family life that attracted just as much interest. One important part of that story was Jeanne Biegger, the woman who became Martin’s second wife.
Born Dorothy Jean Biegger, Jeanne was a former model and beauty queen from Coral Gables, Florida. She was crowned Orange Bowl Queen in 1947 and later found herself connected to one of America’s biggest entertainers. Her meeting with Martin changed the direction of her life and eventually brought her into the centre of Hollywood society.
Jeanne Biegger was more than simply Dean Martin’s ex-wife. She became a mother to three children with Martin and also helped raise the four children he had from his first marriage. For many years, the family lived alongside Martin’s growing fame.
Their marriage lasted more than two decades before ending in divorce. Yet their story did not simply end when their marriage did. Years later, they rebuilt a friendship, particularly after the heartbreaking death of their son Dean Paul.
Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jeanne Biegger |
| Birth Name | Dorothy Jean Biegger |
| Date of Birth | March 27, 1927 |
| Birthplace | Coral Gables, Florida, USA |
| Profession | Model and Beauty Queen |
| Famous For | Dean Martin’s second wife |
| Children | Dean Paul Martin, Ricci Martin, and Gina Martin |
| Date of Death | August 24, 2016 |
Who Was Jeanne Biegger Before Dean Martin?
Jeanne Biegger was born on March 27, 1927, in Coral Gables, Florida. She was a model before her association with Hollywood and was named the Orange Bowl Queen in 1947.
She is said to have met Dean Martin in Miami when she attended a Martin show with Jerry Lewis. Jeanne later described their first meeting as an instant connection, saying they immediately fell in love.
At the time, Martin was already becoming a major entertainment figure. Their relationship quickly developed, and in 1949 they married.
What Was Jeanne Biegger’s Marriage to Dean Martin Like?
Jeanne and Dean Martin were married on September 1, 1949. Their marriage lasted about 24 years and became one of the better-known celebrity relationships of the era.
During their marriage, Jeanne became the mother of three children: Dean Paul Martin, Ricci Martin and Gina Martin. She also helped raise Martin’s four children from his first marriage, making family life a major part of her world.
While Martin’s career continued to grow through music, films and television, Jeanne largely remained away from the centre of the spotlight. She occasionally appeared in entertainment-related settings, including a modelling appearance on I Love Lucy.
Why Did Jeanne Biegger and Dean Martin Divorce?
After years together, the marriage eventually came to an end. Martin and Jeanne divorced in 1973, after spending more than two decades as husband and wife. Martin married Catherine Hawn later that same year.
The end of their marriage was a major change for both of them. However, Jeanne did not remarry, and she continued to maintain a connection with the Martin family.
Their relationship also became more peaceful with time. Following the tragic death of their son Dean Paul in 1987, Jeanne and Martin became friends again and remained on good terms until Martin died in 1995.
What Happened to Jeanne Biegger Later in Life?
Jeanne Biegger chose a much quieter life as she grew older. Unlike her famous former husband, she did not spend her later years seeking attention from the entertainment industry.
Her family remained an important part of her life. Sadly, she experienced several painful losses, including the deaths of her son Dean Paul in 1987 and her son Ricci in August 2016. Jeanne herself died on August 24, 2016, in Beverly Hills at the age of 89 after battling cancer.
Her story is therefore closely connected to both the glamour and the difficult realities of the Martin family.
Conclusion
Jeanne Biegger’s life cannot be understood only through her connection to Dean Martin. She was a former beauty queen, model, mother and an important part of one of Hollywood’s famous families.
Although her marriage to Martin eventually ended, their shared family history continued for decades. Her story remains a fascinating look at the woman behind the celebrity headlines—and at a life that continued long after the Hollywood spotlight moved elsewhere.
Also read: Who Is Lena Kallersjö? The Full Story of Björn Ulvaeus’ Ex-Wife
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Jeanne Biegger?
Jeanne Biegger was a former model and beauty queen who became Dean Martin’s second wife and the mother of three of his children.
When did Jeanne Biegger marry Dean Martin?
They married on September 1, 1949. Their marriage lasted until their divorce in 1973.
How many children did Jeanne Biegger have with Dean Martin?
They had three children: Dean Paul Martin, Ricci Martin and Gina Martin.
Was Jeanne Biegger a model?
Yes. She worked as a model before and during her connection with Hollywood and was also named Orange Bowl Queen in 1947.
When did Jeanne Biegger die?
Jeanne died on August 24, 2016, at the age of 89. She had been battling cancer.
Did Jeanne Biegger remarry after Dean Martin?
No. She did not remarry after her divorce from Martin.
