Frank Sinatra’s Second Wife Explained: Everything to Know About Ava Gardner

Learn why Frank Sinatra’s Second Wife Explained: Everything to Know About Ava Gardner is drawing attention with our thorough coverage.

Q1: Why did Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner divorce?
A1: The couple separated due to mutual jealousy, alcohol-fueled shouting matches, conflicting international film schedules, and Gardner's decision to terminate two pregnancies, which left deep emotional scars. They formally separated in October 1953 and finalized their divorce in July 1957.

Q2: Did Ava Gardner help Sinatra get his role in From Here to Eternity?
A2: Yes. Gardner used her leverage as one of MGM's top box-office draws to persuade Columbia Pictures chief Harry Cohn to grant Sinatra a screen test for the role of Angelo Maggio. Sinatra won the part, took an $8,000 salary, and received the 1953 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, reviving his dying career.

Q3: How many times was Frank Sinatra married?
A3: Sinatra was married four times: first to Nancy Barbato (1939, 1951), second to Ava Gardner (1951, 1957), third to actress Mia Farrow (1966, 1968), and fourth to Barbara Marx (1976, 1998), who remained his wife until his death.

Q4: Did Frank Sinatra stay in contact with Ava Gardner after their divorce?
A4: Yes. They remained close friends for over thirty years. Sinatra regularly called her in London, sent lavish floral arrangements, and paid her medical expenses after she suffered debilitating strokes in the late 1980s until her death in 1990.