Jeri Caldwell: The Actress And First Wife Of Music Icon Quincy Jones
When we think of legendary music figures, Quincy Jones often comes to mind, and for good reason. Yet, behind every influential person, there are often stories of those who shared their journey, particularly in the early days. Jeri Caldwell is, in a way, one such person, holding a unique place in the personal history of the celebrated producer and composer. Her connection to Jones is a significant chapter, revealing a story that began long before his widespread fame.
It's almost as if her name often surfaces when discussions turn to Quincy Jones's personal life, and quite frankly, that's because she was his first wife, his high school sweetheart even. People are naturally curious about the early influences and relationships of such a monumental figure. Jeri Caldwell, a former actress, shares a history with Jones that truly shaped a part of his life, and ours, in some respects.
This piece aims to shed light on Jeri Caldwell, moving beyond just her connection to Quincy Jones, though that is certainly a central part of her public story. We'll explore her background, her career, and the life she built. So, prepare to learn more about a woman whose life intertwined with one of music's most iconic names, and discover some fascinating details along the way.
Table of Contents
- Jeri Caldwell: A Biographical Sketch
- Personal Details and Bio Data
- The High School Sweethearts
- A Marriage in the Making
- Jolie Jones: A Shared Legacy
- Her Acting Appearances
- Life Beyond the Marriage
- Frequently Asked Questions About Jeri Caldwell
Jeri Caldwell: A Biographical Sketch
Jeri Caldwell, originally from Washington, United States, came into public view primarily through her marriage to Quincy Jones. She was, you know, a former American actress who gained a measure of recognition as the first partner of one of music's most influential producers and composers. Her early life, though not widely publicized, set the stage for a relationship that would become a notable part of music history. She married Jones when they were both quite young, practically teenagers, which is a rather sweet beginning, isn't it?
Their story, in a way, is a testament to youthful love and shared beginnings. They grew up together, and that foundation, actually, is something many people find quite endearing. Jeri Caldwell's journey is certainly interesting, not just as someone connected to a legend, but as an individual who pursued her own path, even if it was briefly in the public eye. We will, of course, explore the details of her life and career, giving her story the attention it deserves, as a matter of fact.
Personal Details and Bio Data
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Full Name | Jeri Caldwell |
Birthplace | Washington, United States |
Occupation | Former Actress |
Spouse (Former) | Quincy Jones |
Marriage Period | 1957 – 1966 |
Child(ren) | Jolie Jones Levine (Daughter) |
Known For | First wife of Quincy Jones, Appearance in Naked Gun 33 1/3, Quincy documentary |
The High School Sweethearts
The tale of Jeri Caldwell and Quincy Jones begins, quite simply, in their high school days. They were, in fact, high school sweethearts, a classic American love story unfolding in Washington State. This early connection suggests a deep bond, a shared history that predates the glitz and glamour that would later surround Jones. Their relationship, you know, wasn't something that started in the spotlight; it was built on shared youth and everyday experiences.
It's pretty remarkable, actually, to think about how two young people, growing up together, would eventually become part of such a significant cultural narrative. This early chapter, before the world knew Quincy Jones as "Q," paints a picture of a more private, grounded beginning. They were, it seems, just two kids finding their way, and that, arguably, makes their story even more relatable and, in some ways, special.
A Marriage in the Making
Their high school romance eventually blossomed into marriage. Jeri Caldwell and Quincy Jones tied the knot in 1957. This union marked a significant point in both their lives, especially as Jones was just beginning his ascent in the music world. They were, apparently, a young couple building a life together, navigating the early stages of a career that would soon explode onto the global scene. Their marriage, in a way, provided a foundation during those formative years for Jones.
The couple remained married for nine years, from 1957 until their divorce in 1966. During this period, they experienced life not just in their home state but also, you know, made a big move to New York City and even Paris. It was in Paris, as a matter of fact, where Quincy Jones continued his musical studies under the renowned Nadia Boulanger. Jeri Caldwell was right there with him, supporting his ambitions, which is, honestly, a pretty big deal for a young wife.
Jolie Jones: A Shared Legacy
From their marriage, Jeri Caldwell and Quincy Jones welcomed their daughter, Jolie Jones. She was born in 1953, even before their official marriage, which is a detail that sometimes surprises people. Jolie Jones, in fact, represents a lasting connection between her parents, a shared legacy that continues to thrive. She's not just a daughter; she has carved out her own impressive career, which is, like, really cool.
Jolie Jones Levine, as she is known, has certainly made her mark as a talented individual. She has pursued a multifaceted career, working as a model, an author, and a singer. She has even performed with the Los Angeles Chamber, showcasing her musical abilities. So, it's pretty clear that talent, in a way, runs in the family, and Jolie's accomplishments stand as a testament to her own hard work and gifts. She's, you know, a very accomplished woman in her own right.
Her Acting Appearances
While Jeri Caldwell is primarily known for her personal life, she did have a connection to the acting world. She is, as a matter of fact, credited with an appearance in the American crime comedy film Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult. This role, though perhaps brief, places her within the cinematic landscape, which is, you know, pretty interesting given her background. It shows she had her own endeavors, separate from her famous husband's musical pursuits.
Beyond the big screen, Jeri Caldwell also appeared in the documentary titled Quincy, which offers a deeper look into the life and career of Quincy Jones. Her participation in this documentary, arguably, provides a personal perspective on their shared history. It's, like, a way for her to contribute to the narrative of his life, offering insights that only someone who lived it could provide. These appearances, though limited, are key to understanding her public profile, and they really do add another layer to her story.
Life Beyond the Marriage
After their divorce in 1966, Jeri Caldwell and Quincy Jones went their separate ways, each continuing with their lives. While Jones went on to marry two more times—to Ulla Andersson and Peggy Lipton, with whom he had daughters Rashida and Kidada, respectively—Jeri Caldwell's post-divorce life remained more private. It's, you know, a natural progression for many relationships, and both individuals, apparently, moved forward.
Quincy Jones himself has spoken openly about his relationships, even humorously telling GQ in 2018, "I got 22 girlfriends. I was married three times, man." This statement, you know, highlights the contrast between his expansive personal life and Jeri Caldwell's more discreet path after their separation. She remains, as a matter of fact, a significant figure in the story of his early life, a foundational relationship that set the stage for everything that followed. To learn more about Quincy Jones's remarkable career, you can explore his official website, which is, like, a treasure trove of information. Learn more about Quincy Jones's incredible journey here.
Even though their marriage ended, the bond through their daughter, Jolie, clearly endures. Jeri Caldwell's role as Quincy Jones's first wife and the mother of his eldest child, Jolie, ensures her place in the narrative of one of the most influential figures in music history. Her story, honestly, is a quiet but important thread in the larger tapestry of Quincy Jones's incredible life, and it's worth appreciating for its own sake. Learn more about Quincy Jones's family life on our site, and you can also find out more about his other marriages right here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeri Caldwell
Who is Jeri Caldwell?
Jeri Caldwell is, basically, a former American actress primarily recognized as the first wife of the legendary music producer and composer Quincy Jones. She was his high school sweetheart, and they shared a significant period of their early lives together, which is, you know, a pretty important detail in his biography.
How long was Jeri Caldwell married to Quincy Jones?
Jeri Caldwell and Quincy Jones were married for nine years, from 1957 to 1966. Their union began when they were both quite young, and it spanned a crucial period in Jones's early career, which is, arguably, a long time for a first marriage.
Does Jeri Caldwell have children with Quincy Jones?
Yes, Jeri Caldwell and Quincy Jones have one child together, a daughter named Jolie Jones. Jolie was born in 1953, even before her parents' marriage, and she has since become a successful singer, model, and actress in her own right, which is, like, really cool.

Jeri Caldwell: The Untold Story Of A Trailblazing Journalist And Civil

Jeri Caldwell: The Untold Story Of A Trailblazing Journalist And Civil

Jeri Caldwell: The Untold Story Of A Trailblazing Journalist And Civil