Michelle Phillips is a folk-rock singer and actress, who was a performer in the popular musical group The Mamas & the Papas. She formed part of the quartet through her charming voice and stage charisma.
Michelle, not only became famous in her career life, but she has also witnessed some ups and downs on the personal front. She is currently single, but in the past, she has married individuals such as Robert Scott Burch, Dennis Hopper, and John Phillips.
Current Relationship Status
Michelle Phillips is currently dealing with life as a single individual. She is open to the idea of falling in love once more. She has remained single, following the death of her long-time boyfriend; plastic surgeon Steven Zax in 2017.
Michelle Phillips in her younger days SOURCE: Pinterest
Phillips has been focused on her life since then. She has kept the memories of her past love affair while being open to new connections.
The Singer's Last Relationship
Phillips’ most recent relationship was with her boyfriend, plastic surgeon Steven Zax. Their bond lasted for an impressively long time of sixteen years. It lasted until his unfortunate passing on January 8, 2017. He was 78 years old.
Michelle and Steven were together for a long time, making their relationship appear to be very deep. Although his death certainly blended an unspoken sadness, the memories of their over-a-decade companionship reflect how immense it had been.
Past Marriages
Dennis Hopper
Phillips' second marriage was to actor Dennis Hopper. It remains a brief yet notable chapter in her personal history. The two tied the knot on October 31, 1970, in Taos, New Mexico, with high hopes for their future together.
Michelle Phillips and her ex-husband, Dennis Hopper SOURCE: Pinterest
However, Michelle and Dennis' marital journey was unexpectedly short-lived, as they decided to part ways just eight days later. They finalized their divorce on November 8, 1970. The brevity of their union captured the attention of the public and became a point of curiosity.
Phillips And Hopper Met On The Set
Michelle and Dennis shared both personal and professional connections during their time working on the film "The Last Movie." The movie shot in 1970, provided a backdrop for their collaboration. The singer took on a small role in the film.
It was during the production of "The Last Movie" that Phillips and Hopper's relationship blossomed. They decided to get married after the filming wrapped up.
Did Hopper's Demands Shattered His Marriage?
Michelle's decision to end her marriage with Hopper was rumored to be fueled by his purported "unnatural sex demands." Reports suggest that he had already embarked on this during the production of "The Last Movie," advocating for extensive drug use and participation in orgies, which he later confirmed, as reported in Far Out Magazine.
Michelle Phillips and Dennis Hopper displaying their affection for one other SOURCE: Pinterest
This darker side of Hopper's lifestyle might have contributed to the strain on his and the "California Dreamin'" singer's relationship. Her choice to call off the marriage sheds light on the complexities of their personal lives during this tumultuous period.
Robert Scott Burch
Michelle Phillips' was previously married to radio executive Robert Scott Burch. This was the last time she walked down the aisle. The marriage took place on May 21, 1978, and lasted until March 19, 1982.
Not much information about the details of Phillips and Burch's relationship has been disclosed publicly. The couple has left behind wedding pictures that provide a glimpse into their shared moments. Yet, the private nature of their relationship has shrouded much of the specifics in mystery.
John Phillips
Phillips' first husband was John Phillips, a fellow member of The Mamas & the Papas. Their love story began when she, still a teenager, moved to San Francisco in the late 1950s. It was there that she encountered her first husband and their connection blossomed into a deep and lasting romance.
Michelle Phillips with her first husband, John Phillips SOURCE: Pinterest
Michelle's relationship with John took a turn that could be described as both tumultuous and transformative. At the time they met, he was already married with two children. However, as fate would have it, their connection deepened, leading to a revelation about his personal life.
Susan, John's then-wife, disclosed to the singer that he had "a Michelle in every town." The two eventually divorced and he and Phillips wasted no time, tying the knot on December 31, 1962. With her father's blessing, the two embarked on a new chapter together, relocating to New York.
Harmony and Tension: The Mamas & the Papas' Relationships
Michelle's journey with The Mamas & the Papas was marked by both musical success and intricate personal dynamics. Initially finding work as a model, she soon became a part of John's musical endeavors. However, as her late ex-husband grew increasingly possessive, the tension within the group intensified, as reported in Mamamia.
The sexual energy between Michelle and fellow band member Denny Doherty became palpable during rehearsals. It led to a discreet affair that went unnoticed by Cass Elliot and John initially. When her husband eventually discovered the affair, he expressed his disapproval, stating, "You could do a lot of things to me, Mich, but you don't f*** my tenor."
The complexities deepened as Cass, infatuated with Denny, pleaded with Michelle to end the affair. Despite attempts at reconciliation, her involvement with Gene Clark from the Byrds led to her expulsion from the band. Though she later rejoined, the strain on her relationship with John persisted, resulting in their divorce on August 10, 1970, and the eventual disbandment of The Mamas & the Papas.
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Michelle Phillips Dating History
Michelle Phillips has a diverse dating history that spans several decades. In 1965, she was romantically involved with Denny Doherty and Gene Clark, both of whom were associated with The Mamas & the Papas. Her relationship with Jack Nicholson lasted from 1970 to 1972, followed by a brief romance with Lou Adler in 1972.
Michelle's dating history also includes high-profile names such as the controversial Roman Polanski in 1969, Warren Beatty from 1976 to 1977, and Leif Garrett in 1978. Her love life continued with Joseph Bottoms in 1977 and Geoffrey Tozer from 1987 to 1997.
Later in 1989, Phillips was in a relationship with David Giler. The list also includes John Kerry and Eddie Fisher. Her dating journey is a fascinating aspect of her life, reflecting the diverse experiences and connections she has encountered throughout her career and personal life.
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