Judge Greg Mathis and Wife Linda Reese Divorcing After 39 Years of Marriage

Judge Greg Mathis and Wife Linda Reese Divorcing After 39 Years of Marriage

Judge Greg Mathis, known for his long-running courtroom television show, “Judge Mathis”, and his wife Linda Reese are divorcing after nearly four decades of marriage. According to TMZ, Linda filed for divorce on Thursday, August 22, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason for their split. She listed July 17 as the date of their separation and is seeking spousal support.The couple’s marriage began in June 1985 and spanned 39 years, during which they raised four children: Jade, 39, Camara, 36, Greg Jr., 35, and Amir, 34.

Their family life was briefly featured in the E! reality show “Mathis Family Matters” in 2022, which gave viewers a glimpse into their personal lives and the dynamics of their family. Although the show was short-lived, it highlighted the close bond between the Mathis family members.

Greg Mathis, 64, gained widespread recognition and respect as the presiding judge on his syndicated courtroom show “Judge Mathis”, which aired for an impressive 24 seasons from September 1999 until May 2023.The show’s success was marked by its 2018 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Legal/Courtroom Program, solidifying Judge Mathis as a staple in daytime television. His ability to blend legal acumen with personal wisdom resonated with audiences, making “Judge Mathis” one of the most popular courtroom shows on television.

Despite the cancellation of “Judge Mathis” in February 2023, Greg Mathis did not stay off the air for long. He quickly teamed up with Allen Media Group to launch a new syndicated courtroom show, “Mathis Court With Judge Mathis”, which premiered in September 2023. This new venture continued his legacy of courtroom television and featured his son Amir as a bailiff.In a statement announcing his new show, Mathis expressed his excitement about working with Byron Allen and Allen Media Group, noting their shared Detroit roots and Byron Allen’s success in building what Mathis described as the “Motown of court programming.”

This partnership brought together some of the best judges in the business, further cementing Mathis’s influence in the genre of courtroom television.

 

In addition to the changes in his professional life, Greg Mathis has also experienced significant developments in his personal life.

In July 2023, his son Greg Jr. announced his engagement to Elliott Cooper. The couple had been together for several years but had initially kept their relationship private due to concerns about being judged, especially as two Black men in a same-sex relationship.

Greg Jr. and Elliott shared that, while they knew they loved each other and wanted to spend their lives together, the idea of marriage was difficult to visualize at first. However, they eventually decided to make their commitment official and began planning their future together.

The announcement of Greg Jr.’s engagement was a milestone not only for the Mathis family but also for representation and acceptance within the Black LGBTQ+ community. Greg Jr. and Elliott’s decision to live their truth publicly and unapologetically serves as an inspiration to others who may be navigating similar experiences.

As Greg Mathis and Linda Reese navigate the next chapter of their lives, both personally and professionally, their family remains one of love, and commitment to each other. Despite the end of their marriage, the impact they have made, both individually and together, continues to resonate with those who have followed their journey over the years.