Joan Kennedy, the first wife of the late Sen. Ted Kennedy, has died at age 89, closing a chapter on one of America’s most scrutinized political marriages that endured through scandal, personal struggles, and the weight of Kennedy family expectations.
Marriage Under Public Scrutiny
Joan Bennett married Ted Kennedy in 1958, transforming from a classically-trained pianist and model into a political wife thrust into America’s most prominent family. The marriage produced three children but faced enormous pressures from political life and personal tragedies. Their union would be tested repeatedly by the demands of public service and the Kennedy family’s controversial legacy, ultimately lasting 24 years before ending in divorce.
BREAKING: Joan Kennedy, wife of Sen. Ted Kennedy who was by his side during Chappaquiddick scandal, dead at 89 pic.twitter.com/ScXVvphWi7
— Fox News (@FoxNews) October 8, 2025
The Chappaquiddick Shadow
The 1969 Chappaquiddick incident forever altered the Kennedy family trajectory when Ted Kennedy’s car plunged off a bridge, killing passenger Mary Jo Kopechne. Kennedy swam to safety but waited hours before contacting police, later pleading guilty to leaving the scene of an accident. Joan Kennedy suffered a miscarriage shortly after the scandal broke, yet publicly stood by her husband during this career-defining crisis that effectively ended his presidential aspirations.
Personal Battles and Public Strength
Throughout their marriage, Joan Kennedy battled alcoholism and mental health issues while maintaining the composed facade expected of a Kennedy wife. The couple’s estrangement became evident during Ted’s failed 1980 presidential campaign against Jimmy Carter, when they appeared separated at public events. Their divorce was finalized in 1982, marking the end of a union that had endured political scandals, personal tragedies, and the relentless scrutiny of public life.
JOAN Kennedy, the first wife of Ted Kennedy who stood by his side after the controversial Chappaquiddick incident, has died at 89.
The sole survivor of the original Kennedy dynasty died in her home in Boston, on Wednesday.₿: bc1q8grl3y7utzevu56uq0us0rpgv6r69me762g20g pic.twitter.com/KcNGL8Ut04
— Centennial Man (@CentennialMan) October 8, 2025
Legacy of Courage and Advocacy
Joan Kennedy’s later years were marked by her pioneering work in mental health advocacy and addiction recovery. Her son Patrick Kennedy praised her courage in publicly addressing alcoholism and depression when few others would discuss such issues. Her willingness to speak openly about personal struggles helped break stigma and inspired countless others to seek help. This advocacy work became her lasting contribution beyond her role as a political spouse, demonstrating resilience amid personal challenges.