Peter Marshall, the charismatic host of Hollywood Squares, captivated audiences for 15 years, becoming a household name in American television. Beyond his successful career in game shows and entertainment, Peter Marshall’s personal life, particularly his marriages, has also garnered public interest. This article delves into the marital history of Peter Marshall, addressing the question: Who Was Peter Marshall Married To? We will explore each of his marriages, offering insights into his relationships and the women who shared his life.
Nadene R. Teaford: Peter Marshall’s First Wife and Mother of His Children
Peter Marshall’s first marriage was to Nadene R. Teaford in 1947. While Nadene remained largely out of the public eye, unlike Peter, she did make a few appearances alongside him, notably on the show It Takes Two in 1969. Despite Peter Marshall’s extensive career in the limelight and numerous game show appearances, It Takes Two remains Nadene’s sole IMDb credit, indicating her preference for a private life away from the entertainment industry.
Details surrounding Peter and Nadene’s marriage are not widely publicized, reflecting their desire for privacy. However, it is known that their union lasted for 25 years and was incredibly fruitful in terms of family. Together, they had four children: Pete LaCock, who became a Major League Baseball player; the late David LaCock; Suzanne LaCock, a producer; and Jaime LaCock. After a significant period together, Peter Marshall and Nadene R. Teaford divorced in 1973, marking the end of his first chapter in marriage.
Peter Marshall with Nadene R. Teaford during their marriage
Alt text: A vintage photograph of Peter Marshall and Nadene R. Teaford, his first wife, pictured together during their marriage years.
Marya ‘Sally’ Carter: Peter Marshall’s Second Marriage
Four years after his divorce from Nadene, Peter Marshall married for the second time to Marya “Sally” Carter in 1977. Marya Carter had a notable background of her own; she was a former Playboy Playmate and had previously been married to actor Steve Ihnat, with whom she had two children. Born in California in 1942, Marya also pursued an acting career, with roles in films like The Phantom Planet (1961) and The Red Pony (1973), as well as television appearances in The Rookies and Charlie’s Angels.
Peter Marshall’s second marriage to Marya Carter was considerably shorter than his first. In a candid 2022 interview, Peter himself described it as lasting “an hour and a half” in jest, clarifying his regret about this brief union which ended in divorce in 1983. His reflection suggests that while he valued the long-lasting relationship and family from his first marriage, the second was a less positive experience.
Laurie Stewart: Finding Lasting Love with His Third Wife
Peter Marshall found lasting love with his third wife, Laurie Stewart. They married in 1989, marking a significant turning point in his personal life. The story of how they met is quite charming: Laurie, who worked for TWA, was seated next to Peter in first class on a flight. According to Peter, Laurie had seen him in La Cage aux Folles and initially thought he was gay. Despite the age difference – Peter was 60 and Laurie was 25 when they met – their connection was strong and enduring.
Their marriage spanned 35 years, and Peter often spoke fondly of Laurie. He credited her support and love as vital, especially during challenging times, such as when they both contracted COVID-19 in January 2021. Peter expressed immense gratitude for Laurie’s care during their recovery, emphasizing the love in his life as a key factor in his well-being. Laurie remained Peter’s devoted wife until his passing in August 2024. She was by his side when he passed away at the age of 98 due to kidney failure, in their California home.
In conclusion, Peter Marshall was married three times throughout his life. His first marriage to Nadene R. Teaford was his longest and resulted in four children. His second marriage to Marya ‘Sally’ Carter was brief and, by his own admission, regrettable. Finally, his third marriage to Laurie Stewart brought him lasting happiness and companionship for over three decades, until his death. Laurie Stewart was the woman Peter Marshall was married to at the time of his passing, and by all accounts, she was the love of his life.
