Dick Smothers, the seasoned actor and comedian known for his roles in “Casino” (1995) and “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” (1967), has had a colorful personal life marked by marriages and relationships. In this spotlight, we take a closer look at Denby Franklin, his third wife, to unravel the chapters of their shared journey.
Early Life and Career
Born on November 20, 1938, in the vibrant landscape of New York City, Dick Smothers, nicknamed Dickie, has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Standing at 5’9″ (1.75 m), he’s not only recognized for his wit but also for his roles on both the big and small screens.
Marital Journey
Denby Franklin (January 4, 1997 – 2006)
Dick Smothers and Denby Franklin entered into matrimony on January 4, 1997. Their union spanned nearly a decade, and while the details of their time together remain private, it marks a significant chapter in Smothers’ romantic journey.
Lorraine Wallace (September 19, 1986 – May 30, 1994)
Before Denby Franklin, Lorraine Wallace played a pivotal role in Dick Smothers’ life. Their marriage, lasting from September 19, 1986, to May 30, 1994, brought forth two children.
Linda Miller (October 31, 1972 – April 15, 1982) & (October 31, 1959 – April 9, 1969)
Linda Miller holds a unique place in Smothers’ heart, having been married to him twice. The first marriage, from October 31, 1959, to April 9, 1969, blessed them with three children. Their second stint, from October 31, 1972, to April 15, 1982, represents another facet of Smothers’ intricate personal life.
Family Ties
Dick Smothers’ family history is intertwined with military service, resilience, and tragedy. His father, Major Thomas Bolyn Smothers Jr., a West Point graduate and a POW in World War II, survived the infamous Bataan Death March but later succumbed on a Japanese POW ship, buried at sea. His mother, Ruth Genevieve Remick, carried the weight of loss and strength in raising Dick and his brother Tom.
Trivia and Recognition
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- The Smothers Brothers, Dick and Tom, were awarded a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Television at 6555 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California.
- Dick Smothers attended San Jose State University (SJSU), known then as San Jose State College.
- He and his brother Tom Smothers were born on Governor’s Island in New York Harbor.
- Despite both appearing in “The Informant!” (2009), the characters played by Dick and Tom Smothers were unrelated and never shared the screen.
- Dick Smothers is the younger brother of Tom Smothers and a distant cousin of Alexandria Smothers.
- He is the brother-in-law of Marcy Carriker.
Denby Franklin, as the third wife of Dick Smothers, remains a private figure in the comedian’s life story. While the intricacies of their relationship are shielded from the public eye, her role in shaping this chapter of Smothers’ romantic journey adds depth to the narrative of a man who has not only entertained millions but has also navigated the complexities of love and family.