Who Was Mickey Rooney Married To? A Comprehensive Look At His Marriages

Mickey Rooney was a legendary figure in Hollywood, known for his impressive career that spanned nearly nine decades. His personal life, particularly his marriages, has been a topic of interest for many fans and historians alike. In this article, we will explore the details of Mickey Rooney's marriages, shedding light on the women he loved and the relationships that defined his life.

Born on September 23, 1920, Mickey Rooney became one of the most recognizable faces in entertainment, appearing in over 300 films. His charm and talent captivated audiences, but his romantic life was equally captivating. Throughout his lifetime, Rooney was married eight times and had several relationships that garnered media attention. This article will delve into the story of each of his marriages, providing insights into his life beyond the silver screen.

Join us as we take a closer look at Mickey Rooney's romantic history, the influence of his marriages on his career, and the legacy he left behind. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of who Mickey Rooney was married to and the impact these relationships had on his life and career.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Mickey Rooney
• Mickey Rooney's Marriages
• First Marriage: Ava Gardner
• Second Marriage: Betty Jane Rase
• Third Marriage: Martha Vickers
• Fourth Marriage: Elaine Devry
• Fifth Marriage: Carolyn Hockett
• Sixth Marriage: Jan Chamberlin
• Seventh Marriage: Kimmy Robinson
• Eighth Marriage: Jan Chamberlin (again)
• Conclusion

Biography of Mickey Rooney

Mickey Rooney was born Joseph Yule Jr. in Brooklyn, New York. He began his career in vaudeville at a young age and quickly transitioned to film, becoming a major star during the 1930s and 1940s. Rooney's energetic performances and ability to connect with audiences made him a beloved figure in Hollywood. Over the years, he garnered numerous awards, including an Academy Award, and received an honorary Oscar for his lifetime achievements in film.

Mickey Rooney's Marriages

Throughout his life, Mickey Rooney was married eight times, with each relationship reflecting different phases of his personal and professional journey. Below are details of each of his marriages:

First Marriage: Ava Gardner

Mickey Rooney's first marriage was to the glamorous actress Ava Gardner in 1942. Their relationship was passionate but tumultuous, marked by infidelity and personal struggles. They divorced in 1943, just a year after tying the knot. Despite their short marriage, the two remained friends for years afterward.

Second Marriage: Betty Jane Rase

In 1944, Rooney married Betty Jane Rase, a union that lasted for over a decade. Together, they had two children, and Rooney often credited Rase with helping him navigate the challenges of fame during the 1940s. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 1952.

Third Marriage: Martha Vickers

Rooney's third marriage was to actress Martha Vickers in 1952. This marriage was also short-lived, ending in divorce just two years later in 1954. Despite the challenges in their relationship, Vickers often spoke fondly of Rooney in later years.

Fourth Marriage: Elaine Devry

In 1956, Rooney married Elaine Devry, with whom he had one daughter. Their marriage lasted until 1975, showcasing a more stable period in Rooney's life. Devry supported Rooney through various career ups and downs, and they remained amicable after their separation.

Fifth Marriage: Carolyn Hockett

Rooney's fifth wife was Carolyn Hockett, whom he married in 1976. This marriage was marked by significant challenges, and they divorced in 1978. Hockett later claimed that Rooney struggled with personal issues that affected their relationship.

Sixth Marriage: Jan Chamberlin

In 1978, Rooney married Jan Chamberlin, a relationship that lasted for over three decades. They had two children together and remained married until Rooney's death in 2014. Chamberlin was known for her unwavering support of Rooney throughout his career.

Seventh Marriage: Kimmy Robinson

In 2014, shortly before his death, Rooney married Kimmy Robinson. This marriage marked Rooney's attempt to find companionship in his later years, although it would be short-lived due to his passing shortly thereafter.

Eighth Marriage: Jan Chamberlin (again)

After a brief marriage to Robinson, Rooney's relationship with Jan Chamberlin was revisited in the media. There was confusion about the status of their relationship, leading to speculation about the nature of their commitment. However, Rooney's deep bond with Chamberlin was evident throughout his life.

Conclusion

Mickey Rooney's romantic life was as colorful and complex as his career. His eight marriages reflect a man who sought love and companionship, navigating the highs and lows of personal relationships amidst a storied Hollywood career. Each of his wives played a role in shaping the man he became, and their stories are intertwined with his legacy.

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Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you back for more fascinating insights into the lives of your favorite stars!