Jacqueline Ray is a name that continues to spark curiosity, especially due to her connections to Hollywood through her acting career and high-profile marriages. Best known for her roles in films like In Like Flint (1967) and The Killings at Outpost Zeta (1980), Ray also gained public attention as the first wife of legendary actor Tom Selleck. Though her career in Hollywood was brief, her impact is still remembered, and she remains an interesting figure for many. In this article, we will take a closer look at Ray’s life, career, marriages, and how she became a significant part of Hollywood’s history.
Early Life and Career Beginnings of Jacqueline Ray
Born in Burbank, California, Ray rose to prominence as a model before transitioning to acting. Her early work in the fashion world helped pave the way for her Hollywood debut, and she soon found herself in the film industry. The movie that brought her widespread recognition was In Like Flint (1967), where she played a small yet notable role in this action-comedy film.
Jacqueline Ray’s Acting Career
Ray’s acting career took off in the late 1960s, and her most iconic role came in the sci-fi film The Killings at Outpost Zeta (1980). Although she didn’t maintain a long-standing presence in Hollywood, her appearances on TV shows like Magnum P.I. gave her some lasting fame. Interestingly, she appeared on Magnum P.I. while she was married to the star of the show, Tom Selleck. Despite her limited filmography, Ray has remained a figure of interest due to her contributions to both film and television during her time in the industry.
Jacqueline Ray and Tom Selleck: Hollywood’s Power Couple
One of the most notable aspects of Ray’s life is her marriage to Tom Selleck. The two were married on May 15, 1971, during a time when Selleck’s career was on the rise. They became one of Hollywood’s favorite couples, and their relationship attracted media attention. However, after 11 years of marriage, Ray filed for divorce in 1982.
Despite their separation, the pair managed to maintain a civil relationship, and Ray even played alongside Selleck in his famous series Magnum P.I. after their split. Their relationship had a lasting impact on both of their lives, particularly because Selleck adopted Ray’s son, Kevin Shepard, during their marriage. Kevin would later become a musician, known for being the drummer for the American rock band Tonic.
What Happened to Tom Selleck and Jacqueline Ray?
After their divorce, both Ray and Selleck went on to live separate lives. Selleck later married Jillie Joan Mack in 1987, while Ray moved on as well. Although her personal life remained relatively private, it was revealed that she married for a third time to Clarence Barry Witmer in March 1992. Ray’s third marriage marked a turning point, as she shifted away from the spotlight.
How Many Times Has Jacqueline Ray Been Married?
Ray has been married three times. Her first marriage was to a man named Shepard, and their son, Kevin Shepard, was born in 1966. Her second marriage, which brought her into the public eye, was to actor Tom Selleck in 1971. After her divorce from Selleck, Ray married Clarence Barry Witmer in 1992. Her personal life, filled with high-profile relationships, has always been of interest to fans and media alike.
Jacqueline Ray’s Life After Hollywood
After her third marriage to Clarence Barry Witmer in 1992, Ray decided to step away from the public eye. While there are few public appearances or interviews in recent years, Ray has maintained a low profile, preferring to live her life outside of the Hollywood spotlight. She has focused on her family, enjoying a more private existence since her acting days ended.
Personal Life and Family of Jacqueline Ray
Ray’s personal life has been a topic of interest, largely because of her marriages. As mentioned earlier, her son Kevin Shepard, who was adopted by Tom Selleck, went on to have a successful career in music as the drummer for the rock band Tonic. Ray’s family has played an important role in her life, and though she largely kept her personal matters private, her relationships with both Kevin and Tom Selleck were defining aspects of her life.
Jacqueline Ray’s Legacy
While Ray is no longer in the limelight, her legacy continues to live on. For many, she is remembered for her brief but memorable appearances in film and television. More than just the former wife of Tom Selleck, Ray was an accomplished model and actress who made her mark in Hollywood. Though her acting career was not extensive, her presence in classic films and TV shows remains appreciated by fans to this day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ray’s story is one of both Hollywood glamour and personal reinvention. From her early days as a model to her memorable roles in film and television, she carved out a place for herself in Hollywood history. Her marriage to Tom Selleck brought her additional fame, but her own accomplishments as an actress and model deserve recognition. Now living a more private life, Ray continues to be remembered for her contributions to film and her role in one of Hollywood’s most famous marriages.
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