Linda Evans Husband: The True Story of Her Marriages and Love Life
Many fans of classic television still search for information about Linda Evans’ husband, hoping to understand the romantic chapters in the life of the elegant actress who became a household name during the 1980s. Best known for her role as Krystle Carrington on Dynasty, Evans captivated audiences with her warmth, grace, and on-screen strength. Yet behind the glamorous façade lies a personal story marked by love, heartbreak, self-discovery, and growth. Evans has been married twice, and her relationships have shaped her life in meaningful ways. Understanding these chapters provides insight into the woman behind the iconic roles.
Who Is Linda Evans?
Linda Evans was born Linda Evenstad in 1942, the daughter of professional dancers who encouraged creativity from an early age. While she initially felt shy and introverted, acting classes in her teens helped her break out of her shell, and she soon pursued television roles. Her big break came in the 1960s when she was cast as Audra Barkley in the western series The Big Valley. The show turned her into a rising television star and set the stage for a career filled with memorable performances.
Her most iconic role arrived in 1981 when she joined the cast of Dynasty. Playing Krystle Carrington, the compassionate, strong-willed wife of oil tycoon Blake Carrington, Evans became one of the most beloved faces of prime-time drama. Her chemistry with co-star John Forsythe and her legendary rivalries with Joan Collins’ character Alexis made the show unforgettable. Evans won a Golden Globe for the role and cemented her place in TV history.
Despite her fame, Evans always remained grounded, embracing a gentle and spiritual approach to life. Her personal relationships, like her career, reflected her desire for emotional depth and connection.
Linda Evans’ First Husband – John Derek
Linda Evans married actor and filmmaker John Derek in 1968, marking the beginning of a relationship that brought both passion and pain. Derek, known for his striking looks and charismatic presence, had already lived a colorful life. He was more than a decade older than Evans and had been married twice before—to actresses Pati Behrs and Ursula Andress. Evans was captivated by his creativity and worldliness, and their partnership began with enthusiasm and hope.
During their marriage, Evans supported Derek’s creative pursuits, even helping him launch projects and manage his career. They moved into a luxurious home and adopted a glamorous Hollywood lifestyle. However, fame and ambition created complications, and Derek’s interest in younger actresses eventually strained the marriage.
In 1973, Derek cast a teenage Bo Derek (then Mary Cathleen Collins) in a film he was developing. Their connection grew beyond professional collaboration, and he ultimately left Evans for Bo Derek, who became his fourth wife. The scandal became a major Hollywood story, placing Evans in an emotionally difficult spotlight. Yet she handled the heartbreak with remarkable grace.
Later in life, Evans spoke openly about the lessons she learned from her marriage to Derek. She explained that although the breakup was painful, the experience helped her discover her own strength, independence, and the importance of self-worth. Instead of bitterness, she embraced personal growth—something fans have always admired about her.
Linda Evans’ Second Husband – Stan Herman
In 1975, Evans married Stan Herman, a property executive and businessman whose life was far more private than Hollywood circles. Their marriage represented a dramatic shift from her relationship with John Derek. Herman was grounded, stable, and uninterested in fame—qualities Evans valued after her earlier heartbreak.
Their union was supportive and affectionate, providing Evans with a sense of normalcy amid her rising career. They lived a quieter life, prioritizing privacy over public scrutiny. Although they divorced in 1979, the separation was amicable. Evans has often spoken fondly of Herman and emphasized that they remained friends after the marriage ended.
This second marriage taught Evans about mature communication and the importance of mutual respect. Unlike her first relationship, which was chaotic and emotionally intense, her marriage to Herman offered balance and stability. Evans later said that she learned how to prioritize emotional compatibility and shared values—insights that informed her later relationships.
Her Relationship After Divorce: A New Chapter With Yanni
After her second divorce, Linda Evans entered what many fans consider her most celebrated relationship—her romance with Greek musician and composer Yanni. Their partnership began in the late 1980s and lasted for nearly a decade. The couple appeared frequently at award shows and industry events, representing a glamorous yet deeply supportive partnership.
Their relationship blended creativity with shared emotional intensity. Evans often spoke about how Yanni’s work inspired her, and he credited her with bringing strength and grounding into his life. Although they eventually chose to part ways, their separation was respectful and free of public conflict. Both have spoken kindly of one another in interviews, acknowledging the meaningful chapter they shared.
How Marriage Shaped Linda Evans’ Personal Journey
Throughout her life, Linda Evans viewed relationships as opportunities for emotional and spiritual growth. Her first marriage exposed her to love’s complexities and the dangers of losing oneself in another person’s ambitions. Her second marriage showed her what stability and partnership look like when both individuals communicate as equals. Her relationship with Yanni taught her about creative connection and the beauty of shared passions.
In later interviews, Evans often reflects on how each relationship contributed to her understanding of love and independence. She emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, self-reflection, and maintaining one’s identity within a partnership. As she grew older, she dedicated more time to self-care, mindfulness, and exploring life beyond Hollywood. Her journey reflects a deep internal resilience that fans continue to admire.
Featured Image Source: imdb.com
