Bob Ross, the legendary American painter, captured the hearts of many with his soothing voice and mesmerizing landscapes in “The Joy of Painting.” However, behind the scenes, his first marriage to Vivian Ridge was marked by complexities that eventually led to their separation. This article delves into the life of Vivian Ridge, her marriage to Bob Ross, and the untold details of her journey.
Early Life of Vivian Ridge
Vivian Ridge, a highly acclaimed American artist, was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA. Her early life was away from the limelight, and details about her parents, siblings, and upbringing remain unknown. Despite living a private life, her passion for art emerged at a young age, starting as a hobby when she was only 12.
Bob Ross on TV takes on a whole new meaning in this photo! 📺 pic.twitter.com/YBmNWr4H7i
— Bob Ross Official (@BobRossOfficial) July 29, 2023
College Sweethearts
Vivian pursued a degree in art history at Wake Forest University, where she met Bob Ross. Their college romance blossomed, leading to their marriage in 1965. The details of their initial meeting remain undisclosed, but they became college sweethearts, sharing a passion for art that initially brought them together.
Marriage and Divorce
Bob Ross and Vivian were married for 12 years, with their union coming to an end in 1977. The exact reasons for their divorce are shrouded in mystery, described only as irreconcilable differences. Despite parting ways, Vivian and Bob had a son, Robert Stephen Ross, born in 1966. Vivian retained custody of their son after the divorce, and Bob moved on to subsequent marriages.
Bob Ross’s Later Marriages
Following his divorce from Vivian, Bob Ross remarried twice. First to Jane Lee Zanardelli, a painter who became his student and business partner. Unfortunately, Jane’s life was cut short by cancer in 1992. Bob’s third marriage was to Lynda Brown, a nurse. However, this marriage was brief, as Bob succumbed to lymphoma complications in July 1995.
Life After Divorce for Vivian Ridge
Vivian Ridge chose to keep her life away from the public eye after the divorce. Limited information is available about her post-marriage life, including details of her profession or personal endeavors. There are no records indicating her cause and date of death, adding a layer of mystery to her story.
Vivian’s Son, Steve Ross
Vivian and Bob’s son, Robert Stephen Ross, later adopted the professional moniker Steve Ross. Born on August 1, 1966, he developed a close bond with his father after his mother’s death. Steve learned the art of painting from Bob and appeared in “The Joy of Painting.” He went on to become a certified painting instructor and a successful painter in his own right.
Legacy of Bob Ross and Vivian Ridge
Bob Ross left an indelible mark on the art world, and while Vivian Ridge’s role in his life remains a lesser-known chapter, their story contributes to the legacy of the iconic painter. Despite the challenges in their marriage, their son Steve continues to carry forward the artistic passion inherited from both parents.
Conclusion
The story of Vivian Ridge, Bob Ross’s first wife, is one of mystery and separation. While the details of her life after divorce are scarce, her influence on the legendary painter and the artistic legacy they created, as evidenced through their son Steve Ross, adds depth to their narrative. As fans celebrate the enduring impact of Bob Ross, it’s essential to acknowledge the intricate layers of his personal life, with Vivian Ridge playing a significant, albeit understated, role.
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