Brad Garrett is best known for his deep voice, towering height, and iconic role as Robert Barone on Everybody Loves Raymond. But beyond the cameras and comedy clubs, there’s a more personal story—one of fast decisions, emotional turns, and fatherhood. Garrett’s marriage started quickly, ended in divorce, and left behind not just a lesson but two children who became the center of his world.
Let’s take a deeper look at Brad Garrett’s family story—his whirlwind romance, rushed wedding, the split that followed, and how he embraced life as a devoted dad.
Who Is Brad Garrett?
Brad Garrett is a comedian, actor, and voice artist whose career spans decades. Born in 1960, he started in stand-up and broke through big when he landed the role of Ray Romano’s older brother on Everybody Loves Raymond. His deep, unmistakable voice made him a favorite for animated films, too.
But off-screen, things haven’t always been so smooth.
A Quick Leap Into Marriage
How It All Started
Garrett met Jill Diven in the late ’90s, during the peak of his television success. They hit it off fast, and within a short period, he popped the question.
A Proposal That Wasn’t Planned
Interestingly, Garrett proposed spontaneously while filming an episode. It wasn’t part of a grand plan—it just felt right in the moment. And that spontaneity, he later admitted, might have been a red flag.
Rushed Marriage: A Decision That Didn’t Last
Why They Married So Fast
It’s not uncommon in Hollywood to make quick decisions in the middle of a whirlwind romance. Between a tight filming schedule and sudden fame, Garrett and Diven moved quickly into marriage. They tied the knot in 1999.
Trouble Behind the Scenes
Despite the laughter on screen, things at home were more complicated. Garrett later reflected that they both rushed into things without truly knowing each other. He admitted to not being emotionally ready for marriage at the time.
The Divorce: Parting Ways for the Right Reasons
When Things Fell Apart
By 2005, the couple decided to separate. The divorce was finalized in 2007. Garrett has said that the decision was mutual and based on respect for their kids rather than animosity.
No Drama, Just Distance
Unlike many celebrity splits, theirs didn’t play out with scandal or tabloid feuds. Instead, it was a quiet, deliberate choice to prioritize peace—for the sake of their children.
Meet Brad Garrett’s Children
Son: Maxwell Garrett
Brad and Jill welcomed their son, Maxwell, in 1998—before they got married. Maxwell has mostly stayed out of the spotlight but is reportedly close with his father.
Daughter: Hope Garrett
Their daughter, Hope, was born in 2000. Brad often mentions his kids in interviews, calling fatherhood his proudest achievement.
Life as a Single Dad
Adjusting After Divorce
Post-divorce, Garrett made co-parenting a top priority. He remained heavily involved in his children’s lives, often rearranging work schedules to be there for school events and personal milestones.
Keeping Things Private
Despite his public persona, Garrett has worked hard to keep his children out of the media. He wants them to have normal lives, away from Hollywood’s glare.
How Divorce Changed Brad Garrett
Emotional Growth
In later interviews, Garrett has been candid about his emotional immaturity during the marriage. He didn’t blame Jill—he owned his part in the split. That kind of self-awareness doesn’t always come easily in the celebrity world.
A Shift in Priorities
After the divorce, his focus shifted heavily to parenting and personal growth. He even stepped away from some high-profile gigs to spend more time with his kids.
Did Brad Garrett Remarry?
A New Love Story
Years after his divorce, Brad found love again. In 2015, he got engaged to IsaBeall Quella after several years of dating.
Taking It Slow This Time
Learning from the past, Garrett didn’t rush into a second marriage. He and Quella took their time—eight years, in fact—before marrying in 2021.
Parenting Philosophy: Keep It Real
Honest Conversations
Garrett believes in honest, straightforward parenting. He’s said he never tried to be the “cool dad”—just the present one.
Balancing Fame and Fatherhood
Even while starring in major shows, he often chose family over fame. He says that being there for bedtime or breakfast mattered more than being on set.
The Relationship with His Ex-Wife Today
Respect Over Resentment
Though their marriage ended, Garrett and Diven maintain a respectful co-parenting relationship. He’s spoken kindly about her in interviews, giving her credit for being a great mom.
Hollywood Relationships: A Cautionary Tale
Why Fast Doesn’t Always Work
Brad Garrett’s story isn’t unique in Hollywood. Many celebrities rush into marriage due to intense schedules and emotional highs—but his honesty about it stands out.
Lessons Learned
Garrett’s willingness to admit mistakes, grow from them, and focus on fatherhood is a rare example of maturity in the celebrity world.
A Comedian, But Also a Dad First
More Than Just Laughs
Brad Garrett might be known for his jokes, but the most serious—and rewarding—role he’s taken on is that of a father.
Protecting What Matters
He’s fiercely protective of his kids’ privacy and rarely posts them on social media. That balance between celebrity and dad is something he’s worked hard to maintain.
Conclusion
Brad Garrett’s story reminds us that life behind the scenes can be just as messy—and meaningful—as anything on screen. His marriage may have started fast and ended quietly, but out of it came two children who remain his greatest source of pride. He’s been open about his flaws, thoughtful about his growth, and endlessly devoted to his kids. In a world of Hollywood noise, that kind of quiet commitment speaks volumes.
FAQs
1. Who was Brad Garrett married to?
He was married to Jill Diven from 1999 to 2007.
2. How many children does Brad Garrett have?
Brad Garrett has two children—a son named Maxwell and a daughter named Hope.
3. Why did Brad Garrett and Jill Diven divorce?
They divorced due to emotional incompatibility and rushed decisions. Garrett has admitted he wasn’t ready for marriage at the time.
4. Is Brad Garrett married now?
Yes. He married IsaBeall Quella in 2021 after an eight-year engagement.
5. Does Brad Garrett still have a relationship with his kids?
Absolutely. He’s deeply involved in their lives and considers fatherhood his top priority.
