When television fans talk about Meshach Taylor, they usually picture his Emmy-nominated work as Anthony Bouvier on Designing Women or his unforgettable turn as Hollywood Montrose in Mannequin. Away from the studio lights, however, the late actor shared a steadfast, decades-long private life with his wife, fellow actress Bianca Ferguson. Their partnership spanned over thirty years, surviving the intense pressures of the entertainment industry until Taylor's passing in 2014.
Bianca Ferguson carved out her own place in television history, most notably playing Claudia Johnston-Phillips on the long-running ABC soap opera General Hospital. While Taylor commanded prime-time sitcom stages and theater boards, Ferguson maintained a steady presence in daytime television. Together, the couple balanced high-profile careers while raising a family away from the tabloid spotlight, prioritizing stability and mutual creative respect.
Meeting and Building a Life Together
Taylor and Ferguson married in 1983, entering matrimony during a period when both of their careers were gaining serious momentum. By the time they exchanged vows, Taylor had already toured the country in the musical Hair and established himself as a fixture in Chicago's vibrant theater community, working closely with institutions like the Goodman Theatre. Ferguson was building her own impressive resume in dramatic television.
Unlike many Hollywood pairings that frequently courted media attention, the couple chose a quiet domestic routine. They raised four children together: daughters Tamar, Yasmine, and Esme, alongside son Tariq. Taylor also shared his life as a dedicated father and grandfather, balancing his busy shooting schedules for television series like Dave's World and appearances on shows such as Criminal Minds with quiet time at their home in Altadena, California.
Balancing Acting Careers and Family Dynamics
Sustaining a multi-decade marriage in the entertainment industry requires deliberate boundaries. For Taylor and Ferguson, the secret lay in sharing an intimate understanding of the craft. Because both partners faced unpredictable production schedules, erratic hours, and the emotional toll of public scrutiny, they offered each other professional empathy that outsiders couldn't easily provide.
- Shared Industry Empathy: Understanding the demands of sudden casting calls and grueling rehearsal blocks prevented unnecessary friction at home.
- Geographic Stability: Choosing to anchor their family life in Southern California allowed their children consistency during their formative school years.
- Low Public Profile: The couple rarely appeared on red carpets unless obligated by professional premieres, preferring domestic quiet over industry networking events.
Career Highlights Alongside Family Life
Taylor's career reached massive heights during his marriage to Ferguson. When he landed the role of Anthony Bouvier on Designing Women in 1986, his domestic foundation with Ferguson provided the necessary anchor during intense weekly tapings. His portrayal earned widespread critical acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy Award nomination in 1989.
Ferguson continued her work in television, supporting her husband's transition into stage work—including his 1998 Broadway debut as Lumiere in Disney's Beauty and the Beast alongside Toni Braxton. Throughout these milestones, friends and colleagues frequently noted Taylor's deep devotion to his wife and children, often describing him as a family man first and an actor second.
Facing Illness and Legacy
In June 2014, Meshach Taylor passed away at his Altadena home following a private battle with colorectal cancer. He was 67 years old. Ferguson and their four children, along with several grandchildren, survived him.
In the wake of his passing, the entertainment community rallied around Ferguson. Longtime friend and co-star Joe Mantegna, who had known Taylor since their early days touring in Hair, helped orchestrate tributes, including a dedicated episode of Criminal Minds to honor Taylor's immense impact both on-screen and as a husband, father, and friend. Today, Ferguson preserves that legacy quietly, maintaining the dignity and privacy that defined their decades together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Meshach Taylor's wife?
Meshach Taylor's wife was actress Bianca Ferguson, best known for her role on the soap opera General Hospital. They were married from 1983 until his death in 2014.
How many children did Meshach Taylor and Bianca Ferguson have?
They shared four children together: three daughters named Tamar, Yasmine, and Esme, and a son named Tariq.
What was Bianca Ferguson's acting career?
Bianca Ferguson worked primarily in television, gaining recognition for her portrayal of Claudia Johnston-Phillips on General Hospital during the late 1970s and 1980s.
How long were Meshach Taylor and Bianca Ferguson married?
The couple remained married for 31 years, from their wedding in 1983 until Taylor's death from colorectal cancer in June 2014.
