Harry Connick Jr., a Grammy award-winning musician, actor, and beloved television personality, has charmed audiences worldwide with his music and warm presence. Known for his smooth jazz style and roles as a judge on both American Idol and Australian Idol, Harry Connick Jr. has built a remarkable career. Yet, behind the fame and accolades, he remains a devoted husband and father, cherishing his family life above all else. His marriage to Jill Goodacre, an iconic model and actress, is a testament to enduring love, mutual respect, and shared values that have stood the test of time.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Harry Connick Jr. |
| Profession | Singer, Actor, Television Personality |
| Birth Year | 1967 |
| Spouse | Jill Goodacre (Married in 1994) |
| Jill Goodacre’s Birth Year | 1964 |
| Children | Georgia Tatum (1996), Sarah Kate (1997), Charlotte (2002) |
| Residence | United States |
| Connection to Australia | Daughters live in Australia; Frequent visits |
| Significant Career Roles | Judge on American Idol and Australian Idol |
| Known For | Jazz Music, TV Appearances, Film Roles |
| Marriage Philosophy | Friendship, Shared Values, Listening |
| Anniversary | Celebrated 30th anniversary in April 2024 |
Meeting by Chance and Falling in Love
The love story between Harry Connick Jr. and Jill Goodacre began in a rather serendipitous way. On February 24, 1990, the two crossed paths by chance at a hotel pool in Los Angeles, California. Recalling their first meeting, Harry shared in a 2007 interview with Glamour that he was instantly captivated by Jill. “She had a really strong handshake,” he noted. “If that had been it between us, just that moment, I would’ve thought about it for the rest of my life.”
As fate would have it, Jill felt an equally powerful connection. She confided in her mother that very night, stating she had met the man she was going to marry. True to her word, the couple’s connection only deepened over time, leading Harry to pen the heartfelt song “Jill” for his Grammy Award-nominated album Blue Light, Red Light in 1991.
A Beautiful Wedding and a Family Built on Love
Four years after their memorable first meeting, Harry and Jill tied the knot on April 16, 1994, in New Orleans, Louisiana—Harry’s hometown. Their wedding marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership, characterized by deep affection, shared values, and mutual support.
Their family soon grew with the arrival of three daughters. Georgia Tatum, born in 1996, was followed by Sarah Kate in 1997, and their youngest, Charlotte, was born in 2002. Harry and Jill have often spoken about how their family is the center of their world. Their bond has been a source of strength for both of them, providing stability and joy amidst the demands of their professional lives.
The Secret to a Long-Lasting Marriage
Harry Connick Jr. and Jill Goodacre’s marriage is considered one of the strongest in Hollywood. Over the years, they have remained committed to each other, celebrating both big milestones and everyday moments together. In an interview from 2014, Harry credited their enduring relationship to marrying his best friend and always listening to her. “I listen! Ultimately I’ve been very fortunate—I understand that that doesn’t happen for everybody but it happened for us and we take it very seriously,” he said.
Their shared values and alignment on what matters most have also played a crucial role in their lasting bond. In a 2017 conversation with PEOPLE, Harry remarked, “We have the same morals, the same goals.” Jill echoed this sentiment, adding, “Everything that he values, I value so much too. And our family has always been the most important.”
Life Down Under: A Family Split Between Two Continents
Though Harry and Jill’s daughters—Georgia, Kate, and Charlotte—have grown up in the United States, they have recently embraced a new chapter of their lives in Australia. During his stint as a judge on Australian Idol in 2023, Harry and Jill brought their daughters along to experience life down under. The girls quickly fell in love with the Australian way of life, so much so that they decided to stay after the season ended.
While Harry and Jill have since returned to the United States, their daughters remain in Australia, thoroughly enjoying their time there. In early 2024, the family reunited at The AACTA Awards, where Harry expressed his affection for Australia, mentioning that their frequent visits are driven by their daughters living there. He warmly shared with The Project, “We couldn’t have lost them to a better place.”
Continuing the Journey Together
Harry Connick Jr. and Jill Goodacre’s relationship continues to inspire many as a story of unwavering commitment, friendship, and shared dreams. They have navigated life’s ups and downs together, always prioritizing their family and supporting one another’s ambitions. As they celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary in April 2024, their journey remains a remarkable example of how love, trust, and mutual respect can create a lasting, beautiful partnership.
Conclusion
Harry Connick Jr. and Jill Goodacre have demonstrated that true love transcends fame and fortune. Their story is one of a deep and abiding connection that has flourished over time, centered around family, shared values, and a mutual appreciation for each other. As they continue their journey together, their love story remains an enduring source of inspiration for fans and loved ones alike.