John William McDonald: Real Estate Pioneer and Eartha Kitt’s Husband

John William McDonald is best known as the husband of the famous singer and actress Eartha Kitt. But his life was much more than that. McDonald was a successful businessman in real estate and a devoted father. His marriage to Kitt brought him attention, but he was also respected for his hard work and dedication to his career and family.

In this article, we will explore the life of John William McDonald, his career in real estate, his marriage to Eartha Kitt, the challenges they faced, and how he influenced those around him.

Early Life and Career

John William McDonald was born in the United States, but we don’t know much about his early years. He was a private person, which is why there are few details about his childhood. However, he was known for being determined and hardworking.

McDonald built a successful career in real estate. He was smart with business and understood how to navigate the real estate market. His reputation in the industry was strong because of his honesty and dedication. Although he wasn’t famous, his work gave him a stable income and helped him provide for his family.

Meeting and Marriage to Eartha Kitt

John William McDonald’s life changed when he met Eartha Kitt in the late 1950s. At the time, Kitt was already a famous performer known for her unique voice and dance. Their relationship grew quickly, and they got married on June 6, 1960.

Their wedding received a lot of attention, not only because Kitt was famous, but also because interracial marriages were still looked down upon by some people in the 1960s. Despite the challenges, McDonald and Kitt were determined to build a life together.

Their marriage combined two very different worlds. McDonald was focused on business and real estate, while Kitt lived in the fast-paced world of entertainment. Together, they found ways to support each other’s careers and personal goals.

Family Life and Fatherhood

In 1961, John William McDonald and Eartha Kitt had a daughter, Kitt McDonald, who later became known as Kitt Shapiro. Becoming a father was a big event for McDonald, and he took on this role with love and dedication.

Kitt Shapiro often talks about how much her father meant to her. She remembers him as a loving and supportive parent. Even though her mother’s career often kept her busy, McDonald stayed home and made sure his daughter always felt loved.

McDonald’s main focus was his daughter’s happiness. He wanted to make sure she grew up in a stable home. Even when her mother was traveling for work, McDonald remained a constant presence, taking care of their daughter and giving her the support she needed.

Challenges in Their Marriage

Like many marriages, John William McDonald and Eartha Kitt faced challenges. Kitt’s career often took her around the world, and this made it hard for them to spend time together. McDonald, meanwhile, was busy with his work in real estate. Their different schedules put stress on their relationship.

In addition to this, their marriage also faced problems because of racism. Interracial couples often experienced discrimination during the 1960s, and this put pressure on them as well.

After five years of marriage, McDonald and Kitt decided to divorce. Their divorce was finalized in 1965, but they both stayed committed to raising their daughter and giving her a stable home.

Life After Divorce

After his divorce from Eartha Kitt, John William McDonald chose to live a private life. He continued to work in real estate and remained successful in his career. While not much is known about his later years, we do know that he stayed close to his daughter.

Kitt Shapiro has talked about how much her father meant to her, even after the divorce. He stayed a big part of her life and supported her in every way. His influence on her was strong, and he helped shape her into the person she is today.

Legacy and Impact

John William McDonald’s story is often overshadowed by his wife’s fame, but he played an important role in the lives of those around him. He was a hardworking businessman, a supportive husband, and a loving father. His dedication to his family and career left a lasting mark on his daughter and those who knew him.

Kitt Shapiro has spent years working to keep her mother’s memory alive, but she also talks about the importance of her father’s influence. McDonald’s role as a father and husband is a key part of their family’s story, even if he didn’t seek the spotlight.

McDonald’s life shows that even those who stay out of the limelight can have a huge impact on the people around them. His support for Eartha Kitt during her career and his dedication to raising his daughter show the strength of his character.

Conclusion

John William McDonald may not have been famous like his wife, Eartha Kitt, but his life was filled with hard work, love, and dedication. He succeeded in real estate, supported his family, and raised a loving daughter. His story is one of resilience, and it is important to remember the role he played in shaping the lives of those he loved.

While Eartha Kitt’s talents will always be celebrated, it’s also important to remember John William McDonald’s quiet but meaningful legacy. He was a man who valued family, love, and perseverance, and that is how he will be remembered.

FAQs About John William McDonald

1. Who was John William McDonald?
John William McDonald was a successful real estate businessman and the husband of singer and actress Eartha Kitt.

2. When did he marry Eartha Kitt?
John William McDonald married Eartha Kitt on June 6, 1960.

3. Did they have children?
Yes, they had one daughter, Kitt McDonald, who later became known as Kitt Shapiro.

4. What did John William McDonald do for work?
He worked in real estate and was successful in his field.

5. Why did John and Eartha divorce?
John and Eartha divorced in 1965 due to the demands of their careers and societal pressures.

6. How is John William McDonald remembered today?
He is remembered as a loving father, a successful real estate businessman, and an important part of Eartha Kitt’s life and career.