Amy Carter, the only daughter of the 39th U.S. President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter, grew up under the intense glare of the global media spotlight after moving into the White House as a child. Decades later, her own children have largely stayed out of the public eye, though public curiosity remains high regarding Amy Carter's children—Hugo and Errol.
Amy shares her first son, Hugo James Wentzel, with her first husband, computer consultant James Gregory Wentzel, whom she married in 1996 and divorced in 2005. Her second child, a daughter named Errol Carter Kelly, is shared with her current husband, John Joseph "Jay" Kelly, whom she married in 2007. Unlike their famous grandfather, who spent decades in international diplomacy, politics, and humanitarian work via The Carter Center, Amy's children have lived relatively private lives away from heavy political exposure.
Hugo James Wentzel: Stepping Briefly Into the Spotlight
Born on July 29, 1999, Hugo James Wentzel is Amy Carter's eldest child. For most of his life, Hugo maintained a quiet lifestyle, avoiding the media circuits that frequently tracked members of the extended Carter family.
That brief veil of privacy shifted in 2023 when Hugo appeared as a contestant on the second season of the ABC reality television competition series Claim to Fame. The show features relatives of famous celebrities living together while trying to conceal their lineage to win a cash prize. During his time on the show, Hugo spoke candidly about his famous grandfather and his upbringing, introducing a brand-new generation of viewers to a member of the Carter family tree.
His appearance on national television offered rare insight into his personality and relationship with his grandparents. Competitors eventually deduced his identity due to familial resemblance and clues, leading to his elimination. Since the show wrapped, Hugo has returned to a private lifestyle, keeping details about his higher education and career pursuits out of public headlines.
Errol Carter Kelly: The Younger Generation
Amy's second child, Errol Carter Kelly, was born following Amy's marriage to Jay Kelly. While Hugo's appearance on Claim to Fame brought him into public view, Errol has remained entirely out of the media sphere.
Very few public details regarding Errol's birthdate, education, or career interests exist, as Amy and her husband have intentionally shielded her from paparazzi and tabloids. However, family milestones occasionally bring her into public view. For instance, Errol was spotted attending her grandmother Rosalynn Carter's memorial service in late 2023, standing alongside other members of the tight-knit Carter family to honor the legacy of the former First Lady.
The Broader Carter Grandchildren Legacy
To understand Amy's children within context, it helps to look at the massive extended family built by Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter. The former president and first lady had four children—Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy—who collectively expanded the family tree. Altogether, Jimmy and Rosalynn welcomed 22 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
While cousins like Jason Carter (Jack's son) followed direct political tracks—serving in the Georgia State Senate and running for governor—Amy chose a much quieter path for herself and her kids. After spending her formative years dodging flashbulbs during her father's presidency, Amy prioritized a low-key, private upbringing for Hugo and Errol.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many children does Amy Carter have?
Amy Carter has two children: a son named Hugo James Wentzel from her first marriage, and a daughter named Errol Carter Kelly from her current marriage.
Who is Hugo Wentzel's father?
Hugo's father is James Gregory Wentzel, a computer consultant whom Amy Carter was married to from 1996 until 2005.
Did Amy Carter's son appear on television?
Yes. Hugo Wentzel competed on the second season of the reality show Claim to Fame in 2023, where contestants try to guess each other's celebrity relatives.
Where did Amy Carter grow up?
Amy spent part of her childhood living in the White House during her father Jimmy Carter's presidency before returning to Georgia.
