The Marriages of Jeff Bezos

Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon and one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, has been married twice. Each marriage has marked a significant chapter in his life, both personally and professionally.

Marriage to MacKenzie Scott

Bezos’ first marriage was to MacKenzie Scott, a novelist and philanthropist. They met in 1992 while working at the hedge fund D.E. Shaw. MacKenzie supported Jeff’s entrepreneurial ambitions, famously driving him across the country to Seattle to start Amazon in 1994. Their partnership extended beyond their personal life; MacKenzie played a crucial role in the early days of Amazon, contributing to the company’s branding and accounting.

Their marriage lasted for 25 years and they had four children together: three sons and an adopted daughter. During their time together, Amazon grew from a fledgling online bookstore into a global e-commerce and technology giant. The Bezoses became known for their relatively private lifestyle, focusing on their family and philanthropic endeavors.

In January 2019, Jeff and MacKenzie announced their intention to divorce, a decision that sent shockwaves through the business world. Their divorce was finalized in April 2019. As part of the settlement, MacKenzie received approximately 25% of their Amazon stock, making her one of the wealthiest women in the world. She pledged to donate the majority of her wealth to charitable causes through The Giving Pledge.

Marriage to Lauren Sánchez

In January 2023, news surfaced regarding Bezos’ relationship with Lauren Sánchez, a former television anchor and entertainment reporter. They had known each other for several years through social circles. Their relationship became public around the same time as Bezos’ divorce announcement. The news caused a media frenzy, particularly surrounding the circumstances of their relationship’s beginning.

After several years of dating, Bezos and Sánchez announced their engagement in May 2023. They officially married in August 2024, in a private ceremony. Sánchez, a mother of three, has pursued various endeavors, including her own aerial film production company, Black Ops Aviation. She is also involved in philanthropic work, often alongside Bezos.

Bezos and Sánchez’s relationship has been more public than his previous marriage. They are often photographed together at high-profile events and appear to be enjoying a life of adventure, travel, and philanthropy. Their partnership represents a new chapter for Bezos, one characterized by greater visibility and a focus on his personal life alongside his continued business ventures.

Both of Jeff Bezos’ marriages have been significant events in his life, reflecting different stages of his personal and professional journey. His first marriage was a foundation for his entrepreneurial success, while his second marks a new phase focused on personal happiness and shared philanthropic goals.