Maureen Starkey Tigrett, previously known as Maureen Cox, holds a significant place in the history of the Beatles as the first wife of Ringo Starr, the band’s iconic drummer. While her life may have been overshadowed by her association with one of the most famous bands in the world, Maureen had her own unique journey. Let’s delve into the life of Maureen Starkey Tigrett and explore her story.
Born Mary Cox on August 4, 1946, in Liverpool, England, Maureen was the only child of Florence and Joseph Cox. Growing up, she developed a passion for the emerging Merseybeat sound and often frequented The Cavern, a local club where bands performed. It was there that she met and dated John Brynne from the group “Rory Storm and The Hurricanes,” although their relationship ended in 1962.
It was during her time at The Cavern that Maureen first laid eyes on Ringo Starr, the drummer of a rising band called The Beatles. She initially asked him for an autograph, but it would take a few weeks before they had their first dance and started dating. The relationship faced its share of challenges due to the intense attention from jealous fans, some of whom even threatened and attacked Maureen out of jealousy. She became the person who would answer the letters fans wrote to Ringo.
In September 1963, Ringo invited Maureen to join him, Paul McCartney, and Jane Asher on a trip to Greece. The following year, Ringo and Maureen traveled to the Virgin Islands secretly, without her parents’ knowledge. However, the news of their trip eventually made its way into the newspapers.
Their courtship briefly halted as the Beatles’ popularity skyrocketed. However, during Ringo’s tonsil operation, he proposed to Maureen, and she accepted. The couple decided to marry in January 1965 when Maureen discovered she was pregnant. Given the social stigma surrounding unwed mothers at the time, marrying Ringo was the best option for her and their child. On February 11, 1965, they tied the knot at Caxton Hall Registry Office in London. Brian Epstein, the Beatles’ manager, served as the best man, and the reception took place at his house.
Maureen and Ringo went on to have three children together. Their first child, Zak Starkey, was born on September 13, 1965. Jason Starkey followed on August 19, 1967, and Lee Parkin Starkey was born on November 11, 1970.
Unfortunately, their marriage faced significant challenges. Ringo’s infidelity and his battle with alcoholism put a strain on the relationship. In 1972, Maureen had a brief affair with George Harrison, another member of the Beatles. Despite the difficulties, Maureen was initially reluctant to divorce Ringo. However, in July 1975, the couple separated after news of Ringo’s affair with American model Nancy Andrews became public.
Following the end of her marriage, Maureen entered into a relationship with Isaac Tigrett, the owner of the Hard Rock Cafe, in the early 1980s. While there was an attempt at reconciliation with Ringo after his breakup with Nancy, it was too late. Ringo had already fallen in love with Barbara Bach, his co-star from the movie “Caveman.” Maureen ultimately resumed her relationship with Isaac Tigrett.
Maureen and Ringo became grandparents in 1985 when their son Zak had a daughter named Tatia Jayne Starkey. In 1987, Maureen gave birth to her fourth child, Augusta Tigrett. She and Isaac Tigrett married on May 27, 1989, and divided their time between Los Angeles, California, and Boston.
Tragedy struck Maureen’s life when she suddenly fainted during the opening of “Houses Of Blues.” Initially diagnosed with mild anemia, she was later diagnosed with a form of leukemia called Myelodysplasia. In October 1994, she was admitted to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center for treatment. Despite the best efforts of her physicians, Maureen ultimately lost her battle with the disease. On December 30, 1994, at the age of 48, Maureen Starkey Tigrett passed away. Her husband Isaac, her children, her mother, and her ex-husband Ringo were by her side during her final moments.
To honor Maureen’s memory, Paul McCartney wrote the song “Little Willow.” While her life may have been marked by her association with Ringo Starr and the Beatles, Maureen Starkey Tigrett had her own unique journey and left a lasting impact on those who knew her.