Bill Murray isn't currently married, and his relationship history includes two high-profile marriages to Margaret Kelly and Jennifer Butler. While headlines often track his cinematic legacy and unpredictable public appearances, his private life has been defined by long-term commitments, high-stakes divorces, and complex family dynamics. Understanding the reality behind the actor's personal life requires looking past tabloid rumors and examining the two women who shared significant chapters of his life.
Margaret Kelly: The First Marriage
Bill Murray married Margaret "Mickey" Kelly in Las Vegas on January 25, 1981, during the production of the comedy Stripes. They later held a second ceremony in Chicago to celebrate with their extended families. Kelly largely stayed out of the Hollywood spotlight, though her presence anchored the actor during his meteoric rise in the 1980s and early 1990s, which included iconic films like Ghostbusters, Groundhog Day, and Tootsie.
During their fifteen years together, the couple welcomed two sons: Homer and Luke. However, the marriage fractured in the mid-1990s. Reports surfaced regarding an extramarital relationship between Murray and costume designer Jennifer Butler, whom he met on a film set. Kelly and Murray officially divorced in 1996. Kelly maintained a private existence following the split, while their sons pursued paths outside of mainstream acting—Luke built a career in collegiate basketball coaching, and Homer established himself in the culinary world.
Jennifer Butler: The Second Marriage and Contentious Split
Shortly after his first divorce was finalized, Murray married Jennifer Butler in 1997. Butler was an accomplished costume designer whose credits included films like Last of the Mohicans. The couple had four sons together: Caleb, Jackson, Cooper, and Lincoln.
This second marriage lasted for over a decade before dissolving amid severe public strain. In May 2008, Butler filed for divorce, citing domestic violence, abandonment, infidelity, and substance misuse related to alcohol, marijuana, and sex. The allegations marked a dark turning point in public perception of the actor's private behavior. The divorce was finalized in June 2008, resulting in a substantial financial settlement and divided custody arrangements. Butler passed away on January 19, 2021, remembered by loved ones as a devoted mother and a dedicated creative professional.
Dispelling Financial Myths and Rumors
Tabloid narratives occasionally paint aging Hollywood icons as financially distressed or indigent, but public records and industry tracking place Murray's net worth firmly in the tens of millions of dollars. His enduring syndication residuals from classic comedies, combined with select modern roles in independent cinema—such as his collaborations with director Wes Anderson—ensure long-term financial stability.
While messy divorces and multi-million-dollar settlements famously drain assets in Hollywood, Murray's career longevity and steady stream of professional opportunities prevented the kind of financial collapse sometimes associated with actors from his era. His lifestyle remains nomadic and eccentric, but reports suggesting severe monetary distress lack substantive backing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times has Bill Murray been married?
Bill Murray has been married twice. His first marriage was to Margaret Kelly from 1981 to 1996, and his second marriage was to Jennifer Butler from 1997 to 2008.
Who are Bill Murray's children?
He shares six sons across his two marriages. He has two sons, Homer and Luke, with Margaret Kelly, and four sons, Caleb, Jackson, Cooper, and Lincoln, with Jennifer Butler.
What is Bill Murray's current relationship status?
As of 2026, Murray is unmarried. He keeps his dating life largely private, though brief relationships, such as a reported brief romance with singer Kelis, occasionally surface in media reports.
Did Jennifer Butler work in the film industry?
Yes, Jennifer Butler was a talented costume designer who worked on major feature films, including Groundhog Day and The Last of the Mohicans.
