At 75 Years Old, Phylicia Rashad Reveals The Reason For Her Divorce

Phylicia Rashad, renowned for her standout performance as Clair Huxtable, the elegant and wise matriarch on the widely praised TV series “The Cosby Show,” has recently shared insights into her personal life, shedding light on her multiple marriages and divorces.

Rashad’s portrayal of a married woman on screen mirrored her off-screen romantic endeavors, adding an intriguing layer of real-life drama to her on-screen success. Despite her professional achievements, Rashad’s personal life has been marked by three marriages, each with its own set of challenges and triumphs.

In 1973, Rashad entered her first marriage with William Lancelot BS Jr, a dentist in New York City. The union resulted in the birth of their son, William Lancelot BS III, but unfortunately ended in divorce just two years later, in 1975. Details about this early chapter of Rashad’s personal life remain relatively unknown.

Rashad’s second marriage was to Victor Willis, the co-founder and lead singer of the legendary ’70s disco group Village People. Despite their union in 1978, the marriage ended in divorce just two years later. Victor’s departure from Village People during the filming of their 1980 biopic and subsequent legal battles added complexities to their relationship.

Following her divorce from Willis, Rashad crossed paths with sports commentator Ahmad Rashad, introduced through their mutual friend and co-star on “The Cosby Show,” Bill Cosby. Ahmad’s bold proposal on live television before a Thanksgiving Day football game in 1985 led to their engagement and eventual marriage in a private ceremony in New York City. Despite initial appearances of a seamless relationship, Ahmad and Rashad divorced in 2001 after 16 years of marriage, leaving behind one daughter, Condola Rashad.

Rashad’s journey in the entertainment industry has been marked by groundbreaking achievements and transformative roles. Born in 1948 in Houston, Texas, Rashad grew up in a deeply segregated time in America. Her parents’ divorce at the age of six led to her mother’s bold decision to move the family to Mexico in search of a desegregated life and better opportunities for her children.

After graduating from Howard University with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, Rashad embarked on a successful acting career, making waves on Broadway and in television. Her portrayal of Lena Younger in the 2004 revival of Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun” marked a historic moment as she became the first black actress to win the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play.

Rashad’s contributions to the theater world extend beyond her acting roles. She made her directorial debut with the Seattle Repertory Theater’s production of August Wilson’s “Gem of the Ocean” in 2007, showcasing her commitment to promoting the works of African-American playwrights.

In addition to her theatrical achievements, Rashad became a household name through her television roles, particularly as Clair Huxtable on “The Cosby Show.” Her portrayal of the elegant and wise matriarch earned her Emmy Award nominations and solidified her place as a trailblazer in the television industry.

Throughout her personal and professional journey, Rashad’s resilience and commitment to her craft have remained unwavering. Despite the challenges she has faced in her personal life, she continues to inspire audiences with her talent and grace, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.