As Bozoma Saint John steps into Season 14 of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, she’s openly sharing aspects of her life, including her marriage to her late husband, Peter Saint John. For those tuning in and new fans alike, understanding Peter Saint John’s role in Bozoma’s life provides a deeper insight into the newest Beverly Hills Housewife.
Bozoma Saint John’s Marriage to Peter Saint John
Bozoma was married to Peter Saint John until his passing in 2013. In the season premiere of RHOBH, Bozoma offered a glimpse into their relationship during a heartfelt conversation with Dorit Kemsley. Reflecting on Dorit’s marital challenges, Bozoma shared, “So, I’m widowed… But the reason why I empathize is that 10 years into our marriage, we separated. We never got divorced. But then he got sick and we reconciled. He had cancer and, you know, it’s complicated.” This candid revelation highlights the complex journey of their marriage and the deep connection they ultimately shared.
Their initial meeting was far from conventional. Bozoma recounted on Instagram how they met in a New York cafeteria where they both worked. “I was ordering breakfast, and, admittedly, taking my time. He was impatient and also trying to figure out a way to get my attention. He yelled out from the back of the line, ‘You look like royalty, but you don’t own this place. Hurry up and order!’ Well…he succeeded in getting my attention and royally pissing me off.” Despite the initially abrasive encounter, Peter’s persistence eventually won her over, and according to Elle, Bozoma and Peter married in June 2003 in New York City.
Peter Saint John’s Cancer Battle and Passing
After ten years of marriage, Peter Saint John was diagnosed with cancer in May 2013. This challenging period profoundly impacted Bozoma’s perspective on life. In an interview with OWN, she explained, “Now, it’s really important that I’m urgent because I understand what it really means to live every day fully. Now, I don’t wait. You know, if we want to do something, we make sure that we do it… We don’t want to wait for some magical time in the future to make the memories.” Peter’s diagnosis spurred a philosophy of living life to the fullest.
Peter Saint John was diagnosed with Burkitt’s lymphoma, as reported by Essence. He underwent months of chemotherapy, but tragically, he was later given only weeks to live, according to Joy Online. Peter passed away in December 2013. Bozoma spoke about the importance of their final conversations during a Talks at Google event in May 2023. “We had so many conversations, which I’m so thankful for,” she shared. “I am thankful. I’m thankful for the moments to talk about life…life becomes very clear when we know the end is coming.”
Lael Saint John: Bozoma and Peter’s Daughter
Bozoma and Peter Saint John share a daughter, Lael, who is now a teenager. As Lael entered 10th grade in 2024, Bozoma reflected on motherhood, writing, “It’s been a journey… and time is precious,” adding, “Somebody Slow Time Down.” Bozoma has also openly discussed the pain of a previous pregnancy loss, referring to Lael as her “rainbow baby.” On Mother’s Day, she wrote on Instagram, “I wished on a star for my rainbow baby…and God delivered her,” highlighting the deep significance of Lael in her life.
Bozoma Saint John: Beyond Peter Saint John
While Peter Saint John remains an important part of Bozoma’s story, she is also a highly accomplished individual in her own right. According to her BravoTV.com bio, Bozoma is a “marketing titan, author, and entrepreneur” who has worked with major brands like Netflix, Uber, and Apple Music. Forbes recognized her as the World’s Most Influential CMO, and she has received numerous accolades, including being inducted into the Marketing Hall of Fame. She is also the author of her memoir, The Urgent Life, and launched The Badass Workshop, showcasing her multifaceted talents and drive. Despite her professional success, Bozoma emphasizes that being a mother to Lael is her “highest achievement.”
Bozoma Saint John’s journey on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 14 promises to reveal more about her life, including the enduring impact of her relationship with Peter Saint John and her inspiring resilience.
