Joan Bennett Kennedy , best known as the former wife of late Senator Ted Kennedy , died in October 2025. She was 89. The late musician and advocate lived a life away from the spotlight following her and Ted’s divorce in the ’80s. However, as a former member of the extensive Kennedy family, she remains a recognizable name.

Below, Hollywood Life has compiled five facts about Joan, her marriage to Ted and her life.

Joan & Ted Kennedy Didn’t Separate Until After His Campaign

Joan and Ted separated in 1978 but didn’t legally split until 1981. They finalized their divorce in 1983.

The former couple’s marriage was plagued by Ted’s extramarital affairs and Joan’s drinking struggles, which resulted from living a life under a microscope.

My aunt, Joan Kennedy, mom to my cousins, Teddy an

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