When fans talk about the beloved Designing Women star Meshach Taylor, conversation frequently turns to his rock-solid personal life. Behind his Emmy-nominated comedic timing and warm screen presence stood a quiet, enduring partnership. Meshach Taylor's wife was Bianca Ferguson, an accomplished actress in her own right. While Taylor brought laughter to millions playing Anthony Bouvier, Ferguson carved out a respected television career spanning decades.
Unlike many high-profile Hollywood marriages that implode under public scrutiny, Taylor and Ferguson maintained a private, grounded household for over three decades. They raised a family, supported each other's artistic pursuits, and stayed away from tabloid drama. This deep dive uncovers the real history of Bianca Ferguson, her individual career accomplishments, and the private life she shared with Taylor until his passing in 2014.
Who Is Bianca Ferguson?
Born on February 11, 1955, in Gary, Indiana, Bianca Ferguson built a steady reputation as a television character actress long before and long after her marriage. She didn't seek out the type of chaotic celebrity that draws paparazzi lens flares. Instead, she focused on craft, consistency, and professional execution.
Her breakthrough came in the late 1970s and 1980s. Soap opera fans remember her best for portraying Claudia Johnston Phillips on the iconic daytime drama General Hospital. Appearing across 87 episodes between 1979 and 1987, Ferguson delivered dramatic weight to a genre known for high-stakes emotional turbulence.
Beyond daytime television, her resume includes guest spots and recurring roles across major network television series. Over the years, she appeared in episodes of Grey's Anatomy, Criminal Minds, True Detective, and Beverly Hills, 90210. These roles proved her versatility, allowing her to transition smoothly from 1980s soap operas into modern procedural and prestige television.
Marriage and Family Life With Meshach Taylor
Bianca Ferguson and Meshach Taylor married in 1983, just as both of their acting careers were gaining serious traction. At the time, Taylor was securing prominent theatre and television gigs, eventually landing his iconic role on Designing Women in 1986.
The couple raised four children together: three daughters—Tamar, Yasmine, and Esme—and a son named Tariq. Balancing demanding production schedules with raising a large family is notoriously difficult in the entertainment industry. Yet, the pair managed to keep their domestic life stable away from the flashbulbs of Hollywood.
Friends and colleagues often noted that Taylor deeply valued his role as a family man. In interviews, he frequently credited his home life as his anchor. While Taylor traveled for shoots and managed a busy touring and television schedule, Ferguson kept the household grounded. Their marriage lasted 31 years, ending only when Taylor passed away from colorectal cancer on June 28, 2014, at the age of 67.
Life After Loss: Preserving a Legacy
Losing a spouse after three decades of marriage is a profound life disruption. Following Meshach Taylor's death in 2014, Bianca Ferguson stepped back even further from the public eye, focusing on her family and personal peace.
Taylor's passing brought an outpouring of grief from Hollywood peers, former castmates like Delta Burke and Annie Potts, and fans worldwide. Through it all, Ferguson maintained a dignified silence, honoring the private nature of the bond they shared. Her acting credits continued sporadically into the 2010s, demonstrating a quiet resilience that mirrored her decades on television.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Meshach Taylor and Bianca Ferguson get married?
They married in 1983 and remained together until Taylor's death in 2014.
How many children do they have?
They shared four children: three daughters (Tamar, Esme, and Yasmine) and one son (Tariq). You can read more about his background on Simple English Wikipedia.
What is Bianca Ferguson best known for?
She is best known for playing Claudia Johnston Phillips on General Hospital between 1979 and 1987, along with guest roles in primetime hits like Grey's Anatomy and Criminal Minds.
Did Bianca Ferguson stop acting after her husband's death?
She became more selective with her projects following his passing in 2014, maintaining a quiet personal life while occasionally taking on television roles.
