Richie Sambora isn't currently married, and he has kept a relatively low profile regarding his romantic life in recent years. As the legendary lead guitarist of Bon Jovi, his love life has spent decades under public scrutiny, marked by high-profile marriages, intense relationships, and creative collaborations.
Understanding the romantic history of the iconic rocker means looking past the tabloid headlines and examining his actual marital track record. From his famous 1990s marriage to Hollywood royalty to his long-term partnership with an acclaimed fellow guitarist, here's the real story behind Richie Sambora's relationship status and past romances.
Is Richie Sambora Married Now?
As of 2026, Richie Sambora is single and hasn't remarried. Since his high-profile split from Australian guitarist Orianthi in 2018, Sambora hasn't publicly tied the knot or introduced a new spouse.
Instead of chasing romance headlines, he has focused much of his recent energy on family life, raising his daughter, and occasional musical projects. While rumors occasionally surface about his dating life, he lives a relatively private life away from major red-carpet romances.
The Landmark Marriage to Heather Locklear
Sambora's only legal marriage was to actress Heather Locklear, a union that defined much of the 1990s rock-and-roll zeitgeist. The pair began dating in May 1994 after meeting through mutual circles, quickly becoming one of the most recognizable power couples of the era.
On December 17, 1994, they married in a lavish ceremony in Paris. For over a decade, they appeared to be rock royalty. They welcomed their daughter, Ava Elizabeth Sambora, on October 4, 1997. Ava grew up to pursue modeling and academic interests, remaining a central focus for both parents.
Despite twelve years of marriage, cracks eventually formed. In February 2006, Locklear filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. The separation played out across entertainment media, and the divorce was finalized on April 11, 2007. Despite the split, both parents maintained a shared commitment to raising their daughter.
The Long-Term Partnership With Orianthi
Years after his divorce from Locklear, Sambora entered another significant relationship that blended romance with music. In 2014, he began dating virtuoso guitarist and singer Orianthi, who had famously played with Michael Jackson and Alice Cooper.
The couple didn't just date; they became professional partners. They formed the rock duo RSO and released multiple EPs alongside their 2018 debut studio album, Radio Free America. Their shared passion for blues-rock and guitar-driven melodies made them a formidable musical team.
However, the romantic chapter closed in August 2018 when the couple amicably parted ways. While the romantic relationship ended, their collaborative musical footprint remains documented through their shared recordings.
Other Notable Relationships Through the Decades
Before and between his major relationships, Sambora's dating history featured several high-profile names from the worlds of music and film:
- Cher: In the late 1980s (1989 to 1990), Sambora had a well-documented romance with pop icon Cher, a period during which he also contributed significantly to her Heart of Stone album.
- Denise Richards: Sambora was in a high-profile relationship with actress Denise Richards from 2006 to 2012, which frequently drew intense tabloid attention.
- Nikki Lund: The rocker shared a multi-year personal and business relationship with designer Nikki Lund from 2008 to 2013, during which they collaborated on fashion ventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times has Richie Sambora been married?
Richie Sambora has been married once. His only marriage was to actress Heather Locklear, lasting from 1994 until their divorce was finalized in 2007.
Do Richie Sambora and Heather Locklear have children?
Yes, they share one daughter, Ava Elizabeth Sambora, who was born on October 4, 1997.
Who is Richie Sambora's most recent partner?
His most recent long-term relationship was with musician Orianthi, whom he dated from 2014 to 2018 and collaborated with in the musical duo RSO.
Is Richie Sambora currently touring with Bon Jovi?
Sambora officially parted ways with Bon Jovi in 2013 to focus on his family and personal life, though he has occasionally reunited with the band for special milestones, such as their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2018.
