Phyllis George was a woman who wore many hats. She was a beauty queen, a TV personality, a businesswoman, and even a First Lady. But beyond these titles, Phyllis was a trailblazer who broke barriers and defied expectations.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at her life, her loves, and the answer to the question many people are asking: Is Phyllis George still married?
Early Life and Pageantry
Phyllis Ann George was born in Denton, Texas, on June 25, 1949. From a young age, she was a bright and ambitious girl with a passion for music. She even earned a piano scholarship to North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas). But her path took an unexpected turn when she entered the Miss Texas pageant in 1970.
Winning the Miss Texas title propelled her to the national stage, where she competed for and won the Miss America crown in 1971. This victory marked a significant turning point in her life, opening doors to opportunities she might never have imagined.
A Career in Television
After her reign as Miss America, Phyllis set her sights on a career in television. In 1974, she joined CBS Sports as a co-host of “The NFL Today.”
This was a bold move at a time when sports broadcasting was almost exclusively a male domain. Phyllis, with her charm, intelligence, and quick wit, quickly won over audiences and helped pave the way for other women in sports journalism.
| Year | Show | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1974-1984 | The NFL Today | Co-host |
| 1976 | The CBS Morning News | Co-anchor |
| 1985 | People | Host |
Her success on “The NFL Today” led to other opportunities, including co-anchoring “The CBS Morning News” and hosting the entertainment show “People.” Phyllis proved she was more than just a pretty face; she was a talented broadcaster who could connect with viewers on a variety of topics.
Phyllis George’s Marriages
Phyllis George’s personal life, like her career, was full of interesting chapters. She was married twice.
- Robert Evans (1977-1978): Her first marriage was to Hollywood producer Robert Evans. The marriage was short-lived, lasting only a year.
- John Y. Brown Jr. (1979-1998): Her second marriage was to John Y. Brown Jr., a businessman who owned Kentucky Fried Chicken and served as the governor of Kentucky from 1979 to 1983. This marriage made Phyllis the First Lady of Kentucky, a role she embraced with enthusiasm. She used her platform to promote the state and its people.
Is Phyllis George Still Married?
Phyllis and John Y. Brown Jr. divorced in 1998 after 19 years of marriage. Phyllis George was not married at the time of her death in 2020.
Life After Divorce and Legacy
After her divorce from Brown, Phyllis continued to pursue her various interests. She became involved in business ventures, wrote a book about quilts, and even made a cameo appearance in the movie “Meet the Parents.”
Phyllis George passed away on May 14, 2020, at the age of 70. She left behind a legacy as a pioneering woman who broke barriers in both sports and broadcasting. She is remembered not only for her beauty and talent but also for her intelligence, her determination, and her commitment to making a difference in the world.
Phyllis George: A Woman of Many Titles
Throughout her life, Phyllis George was known by many titles: Miss America, sportscaster, First Lady, businesswoman. But perhaps the most fitting title is simply “trailblazer.”
She was a woman who wasn’t afraid to challenge the status quo and pursue her dreams. She showed the world that women could excel in any field they chose, and she inspired generations of women to follow in her footsteps.
Conclusion
Phyllis George lived a life full of accomplishment and adventure. From the Miss America stage to the world of sports broadcasting, she made her mark in fields traditionally dominated by men.
While her marriages to Robert Evans and John Y. Brown Jr. ended in divorce, she remained a strong and independent woman throughout her life. Phyllis George’s legacy is one of breaking barriers, pursuing passions, and inspiring others to do the same.
FAQs
Is Phyllis George still alive?
No, Phyllis George passed away on May 14, 2020, at the age of 70.
Who was Phyllis George married to?
Phyllis George was married twice: first to Hollywood producer Robert Evans and then to Kentucky Fried Chicken owner and former Kentucky Governor John Y. Brown Jr.
Was Phyllis George a sportscaster?
Yes, Phyllis George was a pioneer in sports broadcasting. She was one of the first women to co-host a major sports program, “The NFL Today.”
What did Phyllis George do as First Lady of Kentucky?
As First Lady of Kentucky, Phyllis George was actively involved in promoting the state and its people. She also focused on initiatives related to the arts, tourism, and historical preservation.
What was the cause of Phyllis George’s death?
Phyllis George passed away due to complications from a blood disorder.