Aretha Franklin, who had a unique talent for capturing the essence of relationships in her work through powerful songs like “Think” and celebratory records like “(You Make Me Feel Like) a Natural Woman,” had a complicated romantic life involving multiple partners. Her life and legacy are once again in the spotlight due to the release of the new National Geographic series, Genius: Aretha, starring Cynthia Erivo.
Erivo, who portrays Franklin in the series, spoke about the singer’s resilience in the face of adversity. Despite facing heartbreak many times throughout her life, Franklin endured and continued to thrive. Her relationships with her husbands and romantic partners undoubtedly influenced her creative process as the Queen of Soul.
Franklin was married twice and had four children before her passing in 2018. Her first husband, Ted White, who also served as her manager, played a significant role in her early career. Their tumultuous marriage ended in divorce in 1969, with allegations of abuse levied against White.
After her split from White, Franklin entered into a more positive relationship with another manager, Ken Cunningham, in 1969. Although they never married, Cunningham was a stabilizing presence in Franklin’s life and helped her overcome personal struggles, including alcohol addiction.
In 1977, Franklin met actor Glynn Turman, whom she later married in a storybook wedding in 1978. Despite their initial portrayal of a perfect Hollywood couple, their marriage faced challenges, and they eventually parted ways. Franklin also had an engagement with longtime friend Willie Wilkerson, which was called off in 2012.
These romantic relationships, with their highs and lows, were intertwined with Franklin’s extraordinary artistic gifts. Her brother, Rev. Cecil Franklin, believed that her commitment to music overshadowed her ability to maintain long-term romantic relationships due to her genius.
As a cultural and music journalist in New York, Grant Rindner reflects on Franklin’s turbulent love life and enduring legacy in the music industry. Through her music and personal experiences, Aretha Franklin continues to inspire audiences around the world with her resilience, talent, and unwavering commitment to her art.
