Early Life and Career Beginnings
Kathryn Lee Epstein Gifford, born August 16, 1953, in Paris, France, had a varied and successful entertainment career. Aaron and Joan Epstein, Gifford’s parents, raised her in Bowie, Maryland. A famous television presenter, talk show host, singer, songwriter, actress, and author, she began her career in the 1970s.
The career trajectory of Cathy Lee is characterized by her adaptability and talent across various media platforms. She gained widespread recognition as the co-host of Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee, a role she held from 1985 to 2000. This period cemented her status as a household name, showcasing her ability to connect with audiences through her charismatic presence and engaging interviews. Her subsequent role as a co-host on the Today show’s fourth hour alongside Hoda Kotb from 2008 to 2019 further showcased her versatility and solidified her place in television history.
The accolades Gifford has received, including 11 Daytime Emmy nominations and a win in 2010 as part of the Today team, underscore her impact and contribution to the industry. Her talent is not confined to television alone; she has also made notable strides in music and writing, demonstrating an artistic range that continues to resonate with fans and peers alike.
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kathryn Lee Epstein Gifford |
| Birthdate | August 16, 1953 |
| Birthplace | Paris, France |
| Occupations | Television presenter, talk show host, singer, songwriter, actress, author |
| Notable Hosting Roles | Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee (1985–2000), Today fourth hour with Hoda Kotb (2008–2019) |
| Accolades | 11 Daytime Emmy nominations; won in 2010 as part of the Today team |
Personal Life and Family
Cathy Lee Gifford’s family connections and experiences have shaped her life. Her first marriage was 1976–1982, to Christian music composer Paul Johnson. A important event in her life was her second marriage to NFL player and broadcaster Frank Gifford, from 1986 till his 2015 death. Cody and Cassidy were born from this connection.
Cody Gifford, born in 1990, is a producer and Gifford Media Group founder like his mother. His 2020 marriage to Erika and their kids Frank and Ford began new chapters in the Gifford family’s story. Actress Cassidy Gifford, born August 2, 1993, has made her own way. Her marriage to Ben Wierda in June 2020 and their children, Finn in 2023 and Rosie Mae in June 2025, show the family’s development and change.
Resilience, ingenuity, and close relationships define the Gifford family. Frank Gifford left Cathy Lee enormous assets, including Florida and Connecticut properties, which have strengthened her finances. She was wealthy and successful, as her $60 million net worth and highest earnings show.
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Parents | Aaron and Joan Epstein |
| Siblings | David and Michelle Epstein |
| First Marriage | Paul Johnson (1976–1982) |
| Second Marriage | Frank Gifford (m. 1986–d. 2015) |
| Children | Cody Gifford, Cassidy Gifford |
| Grandchildren | Frank, Ford, Finn, Rosie Mae |
Current Endeavors and Public Influence
Beyond her television work, Cathy Lee Gifford continues to demonstrate her remarkable talents in other projects. Gifford, 71, is recovering from hip surgery and a damaged pelvis. Her May 2025 selection as a QVC ambassador for women over 50 shows her public presence despite these personal challenges. This program, “Age of Possibility,” shows her dedication to empowering and motivating older women.
Gifford continues to produce, write, and perform in Nashville. She maintains a modest profile after Frank Gifford’s death to have privacy and reflect on her life. Her occasional studio appearances show her ongoing relationship to the media.
Cathy Lee finds purpose in family and faith via family joys, especially her grandchildren’s births. This personal fulfilment and her professional achievements continue to define her story as a media icon who gracefully accepts new jobs.
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Health & Well‑being | Recovering from a fractured pelvis post-hip surgery at 71 years old |
| Philanthropy & Public Role | QVC ambassador for women over 50, “Age of Possibility” |
| Family Joys | Celebrated the births of grandchildren Frank, Ford, and Rosie Mae |
| Personal Life | Plans to keep future romance private; finds purpose in faith and family |
| Media Presence | Occasional studio appearances; focused on creative projects in Nashville |
FAQ
Cathy Lee Gifford’s notable accomplishments?
Cathy Lee Gifford is known for her roles as co-host on Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee and the Today show’s fourth hour, earning 11 Daytime Emmy nominations.
How did Cathy Lee’s family affect her?
Her marriages to Paul Johnson and Frank Gifford, her children Cody and Cassidy, and her grandkids have impacted her life.
