Paul Anka, a legendary figure in the music industry, has marked over six decades as a singer, songwriter, and actor. Renowned for hits like “Diana,” “Lonely Boy,” “Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” and “My Way,” he has also contributed his songwriting talents to artists such as Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones, and Michael Jackson. With a global record sales exceeding 100 million, Paul Anka holds places in the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Despite his flourishing professional life, Anka’s personal journey has been marked by marital complexities. Having been married four times and experiencing three divorces, he is also a father to six children from his various marriages. In this blog, we delve into his marital history and explore his current relationship.
Anne de Zogheb: His First Wife and Mother of Five Daughters
Paul Anka first crossed paths with Anne de Zogheb, a former top model, in 1960 in Puerto Rico. Their union began in 1963 in Paris, eventually leading them to New York, Los Angeles, and Carmel, California. The couple welcomed five daughters: Amelia, Anthea, Alicia, Amanda, and Alexandra.
Despite their 37-year marriage, it was not without its challenges. Anka openly admitted to infidelity and frequent arguments. Feeling confined, he initiated divorce proceedings in 1994, concluding the process in 2000. Despite the separation, Anka expressed ongoing friendship with Anne, maintaining close contact post-divorce.
Anna Yeager: His Second Wife and Mother of His Only Son
In 1999, Anka encountered Anna Yeager, a Swedish model and actress, in Las Vegas. Their marriage transpired in 2008 in Italy, resulting in the birth of their son, Ethan, in 2004. Anna also featured in the Swedish reality show Svenska Hollywoodfruar.
However, Anka’s second marriage was brief and tumultuous. A 2010 domestic dispute involving the police unfolded, with accusations ranging from ice-throwing to threats involving a gun. The divorce process began in 2010, with Anka securing full custody of their son. Allegations of abuse, violence, and substance abuse added further complexity to their separation.
Lisa Pemberton: His Third Wife and Current Spouse
In 2012, Anka met Lisa Pemberton, a makeup artist, in London. Their union, consummated in 2016 in Beverly Hills, marks Anka’s fourth and current marriage. Despite a notable age difference, Anka speaks fondly of Lisa as his soulmate, emphasizing her support for his career and positive relationship with his children. Having learned from past mistakes, Anka expresses maturity and fidelity in his current marriage, affirming his commitment to Lisa and dispelling any notions of future divorce.
A Final Word
Paul Anka’s enduring success in the music industry is matched by a complex personal history, notably marked by multiple marriages and divorces. Despite past challenges and legal entanglements with ex-wives, Anka now finds solace and happiness in his current marriage to Lisa Pemberton. Expressing gratitude for his life and family, he looks optimistically towards the future.