Bob Ross was a renowned American painter and television host. He was married to Vivian Ridge as his first wife. They tied the knot in 1965 and were blessed with a son named Steven Ross.
Although Vivian was also a painter, she was predominantly recognized for her association with Bob Ross. The couple parted ways in 1977.
Jump Link
Quick Stats
| Category | Information |
| Full Name | Vivian Ridge |
| Birthdate | 1964 |
| Birthplace | New York, USA |
| Education | Degree in Art History from Wake Forest University |
| Occupation | Painter and Teacher |
| Spouse | Bob Ross (m. 1965-1977) |
| Children | Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross |
| Gender | Female |
| Cause of Death | Unknown (possibly cancer) |
Vivian Ridge Early Life
Vivian Ridge, the inaugural spouse of Bob Ross, was an American painter and tv host. Born in 1964, Vivian developed a passion for painting as a hobby at the age of 12. She obtained a degree in art history from Wake Forest University, where she first crossed paths with Bob Ross.
In 1965, they exchanged vows and welcomed a son, Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross, into the world. Unfortunately, their marriage ended in separation in 1977.
Vivian Ridge Age
Vivian Ridge, Bob Ross’ inaugural spouse, was born in New York. She discovered her passion for painting at 12. Vivian pursued a degree in art history from Wake Forest University in North Carolina, where she met Bob Ross. They tied the knot in 1965 and were blessed with a son named Steve Ross.
Bob Ross and Vivian Ridge’s union lasted 12 years before they parted ways in 1977. Following their separation, Vivian relocated to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where she continued to create art.
Bob Ross was married thrice in his lifetime. After his divorce from Vivian Ridge, he wed Jane Ross in 1977. Later, he married Lynda Brown in 1995, just two months before his demise.
Vivian Ridge Family
Unfortunately, there is no information on the internet about Vivian Ridge family, including her parents and siblings.
Her ex-husband, the renowned American painter Bob Ross, exchanged wedding vows three times during his lifetime.
His first marriage was with Vivian Ridge in 1965, and they remained together until their separation in 1977. Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross, born in 1966, was the couple’s only son.
In 1977, Ross married Jane Lee Zanardelli. Sadly, Jane passed away in 1992. Finally, Ross tied the knot with Lynda Brown, and they stayed wedded until his passing in 1995.
Vivian Ridge’s personal life is not extensively documented. It is believed that she met Bob Ross in high school, and they married in their late teens.
According to reports, their marriage was unstable, and after 12 years, they parted ways. Following their separation, Vivian returned to her hometown and kept a low profile.
What Was Vivian Ridge’s Career, Bob Ross’s Ex-Wife?
After the separation from Bob Ross, Vivian pursued a career in real estate and worked as a realtor in Florida until her retirement. She lived in the Orlando area during her later years.
On the other hand, Bob Ross was a renowned painter, art teacher, and television host. After his first divorce, Bob Ross succeeded immensely as a painter and television personality.
His show, “The Joy of Painting,” continued to air until his passing in 1995. His influence in the art world has remained strong. Bob’s legacy inspires new generations of artists.
Who Was Vivian Ridge’s Ex-Husband, Bob Ross?
Born on Oct 29, 1942, in Daytona Beach, Florida, Bob Ross was an American painter, art instructor, and television host. He was most recognized as the creator and presenter of the PBS television program The Joy of Painting. This program was circulated from 1983 to 1994.
On the show, Ross taught viewers how to paint landscapes. His calm and gentle approach to teaching and signature afro hairstyle became recognizable traits of the show.
Before becoming an artist, Ross served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years. While in Alaska, he developed a passion for painting landscapes inspired by the beautiful local scenery.
After his service in the military, he started teaching painting classes and developed his unique style.
Ross’s show became a cultural sensation. He was beloved for his soft-spoken voice, relaxed manner, and optimistic attitude.
While teaching viewers, he frequently used phrases like “happy little trees” and “there are no mistakes, only happy accidents.” Ross also sold painting supplies and instructional books through his company, Bob Ross Inc.
Bob Ross’s influence has continued long after his death. His show maintains a strong fan base and is now available on streaming platforms like Netflix.
Moreover, many of his paintings have been gifted to various museums and institutions. His image has been referenced in popular culture, such as Deadpool movies.
Vivian Ridge Death
Vivian Ridge was the first spouse of Bob Ross, the famous American painter and television host. She was born in 1964 and died at 61. In 1965, Vivian married Bob Ross, and the couple had a son named Robert Steven “Steve” Ross.
However, their marriage divorced in 1977, and Vivian passed away soon after, leaving Bob.
Despite being married to a famous figure, little is known about Vivian Ridge’s life and death. Some sources speculate that her death was due to cancer, but this cannot be confirmed.
Vivian Ridge Kids
Bob Ross’s first wife was Vivian Ridge, with whom he had a son named Robert Stephen Ross. Robert was born on August 1, 1966. The couple divorced in 1977 after being married for over a decade.
After the divorce, Bob Ross went on to marry two more times. Despite being married to a famous painter and TV host, little is known about Vivian Ridge’s life. It is believed that she worked as a teacher.
Following her divorce from Bob Ross, she changed her name to Vivian Patricia Pace and passed away in 1986.
Vivian Ridge Divorce
Vivian Ridge was the first spouse of Bob Ross, the late American painter and television host. They were married in 1965.
The couple had a son named Steven Ross, but their wedding ended in divorce in 1977 after twelve years.
Vivian Ridge passed away a few years after their divorce, leaving her son in the care of Bob Ross.
Although little is known about Vivian Ridge’s life after her divorce from Bob Ross. It is said that she moved out of the family home after their separation.
However, Bob Ross passed away in 1995. He left behind a rich legacy of more than 30,000 paintings, television programs, and instructional materials. His legacy will continue to inspire and educate people worldwide.
Bob Ross Death
In Orlando, Florida, on July 4, 1995, Bob Ross, the beloved American painter and television host passed away at 52. He died due to complications from lymphoma. He will always be remembered for his enduring legacy as the host of “The Joy of Painting.” It was a beloved television show that ran from 1983 to 1994.
Vivian Ridge & Bob Ross’s Net Worth
Unfortunately, there is no information available about Vivian Ridge net worth. On the other hand, Bob Ross had an estimated net worth of approximately $1 at his death.
FAQS
Q Who was Bob Ross’s first wife, and how long were they married?
Bob Ross’s first wife was Vivian Ridge, and they were married in 1965. However, they got divorced in 1977.
Q. What was Vivian Ridge’s background and education?
Vivian Ridge was an American painter, art instructor, and television host. She developed a passion for painting at 12 and obtained a degree in art history from Wake Forest University.
Q. How often was Bob Ross married, and did he have any children with Vivian Ridge?
Bob Ross was married thrice in his lifetime, and he had one child with Vivian Ridge, a son named Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross.
Q What was Vivian Ridge’s cause of death, and how old was she when she passed away?
Vivian Ridge passed away at the age of 61. Her cause of death is not widely known, but some sources speculate it may have been due to cancer.
Q What happened to Vivian Ridge after she divorced Bob Ross?
Following their divorce, Vivian Ridge reportedly relocated to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where she continued to create art. Not much else is known about her life.
Q. Is Vivian Ridge still alive?
No, Vivian Ridge died at the age of 61 due to cancer.
