When you hear the name Phyllis Minkoff, the first thing that comes to mind for many people is her marriage to the well-known television personality Maury Povich. While her name has often been tied to that of her famous ex-husband, Phyllis has built her own identity as a communications and public relations expert. Over the years, she has kept much of her life private but still remains a figure of interest because of her professional work, political involvement, and role in two high-profile marriages. This article takes a closer look at her journey, from her early life and career to her marriages and family, while also exploring what she is doing today.
Quick Bio Information
Full Name: Phyllis Minkoff
Date of Birth: February 15, 1941
Age: 83 years old (as of 2024)
Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., USA
Current Residence: Greater Pittsburgh, USA
Parents: Ida Minkoff and Hyman Joseph Minkoff
Sibling: Larry Minkoff
Marriages: Maury Povich (1962–1979), Phillip Baskin (1980–2005)
Children: Susan Anne Povich, Amy Joyce Povich, Shoshana Nudel, Janice Gondelman
Profession: Communications and Public Relations Expert
Net Worth: Approximately $1 Million
Early Life and Background
Phyllis Minkoff was born on February 15, 1941, in Washington, D.C. She grew up in a family that valued education and ambition. Her parents, Ida Minkoff and Hyman Joseph Minkoff, raised her alongside her only sibling, Larry Minkoff. Her childhood in the nation’s capital gave her exposure to politics, communication, and civic life—interests that would later shape her career path.
Now in her early eighties, Phyllis has lived through remarkable decades of change in American society. Her background helped her develop strong views on politics and social justice, values she carried into both her personal and professional life.
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Education and Early Interests
While specific details of her schooling remain private, it is clear that Phyllis had a passion for communication and leadership from a young age. Growing up in Washington, D.C., she was surrounded by political discussions and the workings of government. This environment nurtured her ability to engage with public issues and develop an interest in advocacy.
Her ability to connect with people and articulate her ideas naturally steered her toward public relations and communications, fields where she would later build a career. Even before stepping into the professional world, Phyllis had a reputation for being outspoken, thoughtful, and passionate about women’s rights and social causes.
Career in Public Relations and Communications
Phyllis Minkoff chose a career in public relations and communications, where she thrived by helping organizations and individuals connect with their communities. Her work went beyond typical PR duties; she often tied her professional life to her personal values.
She became known for her political engagement, supporting campaigns and figures that reflected her ideals. In recent years, she openly supported Hillary Clinton’s 2017 presidential aspirations and has also aligned herself with Senators Bernie Sanders and Joe Kennedy III. This demonstrates her willingness to speak up about issues that matter to her, even in later life.
Phyllis has also been active in philanthropy, contributing to nonprofits and animal shelters across the country. Her involvement with the Women’s Liberation Front highlights her commitment to women’s empowerment, showing that her career has always been connected to a larger purpose of advocacy and equality.
Marriage to Maury Povich
In 1962, Phyllis Minkoff married Maury Povich, who at the time was still building his career in television. Their marriage coincided with Maury’s rise to fame, and Phyllis often found herself in the public eye as the wife of a future talk show host.
The couple shared many years together, raising their daughters and managing life under the growing pressures of fame. Despite Maury’s demanding career, Phyllis managed to balance her own professional ambitions with her responsibilities at home. Their marriage lasted for 17 years, making her an important part of Maury’s personal and professional journey during his early years in the media industry.
Divorce from Maury Povich
After nearly two decades together, Phyllis Minkoff and Maury Povich divorced in 1979. The separation caught public attention, with some speculation that Phyllis may have already been moving forward in her personal life.
While the exact reasons for their split were never fully revealed, many believe the challenges of balancing Maury’s high-profile career with personal life played a role. Regardless of the circumstances, Phyllis carried herself with dignity during the divorce and avoided unnecessary publicity.
Her divorce did not diminish her role as a mother or a professional. Instead, it marked the beginning of a new chapter where she continued to raise her daughters and later built a family with her second husband.
Children from Her First Marriage
Phyllis and Maury Povich welcomed two daughters during their marriage, both of whom have grown into successful women. Susan Anne Povich became a chef and co-founded a popular lobster company, while Amy Joyce Povich pursued a career in theater and the arts. Amy is married to Dr. David Agus, a well-known physician and author, which further connects the family to high-achieving circles.
These children reflect the values of hard work and creativity that Phyllis instilled in them. Despite the divorce, she and Maury continued to be active parents, ensuring that their daughters received both love and opportunities to pursue their passions.
Second Marriage to Phillip Baskin
Not long after her divorce, Phyllis found love again. In 1980, she married Phillip Baskin, a respected attorney and councilman from Pittsburgh. Their marriage provided her with stability and a fresh start. Together, they had two daughters, Shoshana Nudel and Janice Gondelman, further expanding Phyllis’s family.
Phyllis and Phillip’s marriage lasted for 25 years, until Phillip’s passing in 2005 due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Their life together in Pittsburgh was marked by family, community involvement, and shared values. Unlike her first marriage, which was closely followed by the media, this second marriage was more private and grounded.
Life After Phillip Baskin
After the loss of her husband, Phyllis continued to live in Pittsburgh, where she remains today. Despite her personal loss, she has remained active in causes close to her heart. She has focused on supporting nonprofits, promoting women’s rights, and staying politically engaged.
Although she does not seek media attention, her influence is felt through her contributions to community organizations and political advocacy. Phyllis has shown resilience in the face of personal challenges and continues to live a meaningful life centered on family and service.
Phyllis Minkoff’s Net Worth
Phyllis Minkoff’s career in communications and her continued involvement in public relations have given her financial independence. Her estimated net worth is around $1 million. While this figure is modest compared to her ex-husband Maury Povich’s wealth of about $80 million, it represents her own hard work and dedication.
Her net worth comes from her long career rather than the fame or fortune of her marriages, showing that she has built her own foundation of success.
Relationship with Maury Povich After Divorce
Following their divorce, Phyllis and Maury went their separate ways, each building a new life. Maury later married journalist Connie Chung in 1984, and together they adopted a son, Matthew Jay Povich.
While Phyllis has remained private about her relationship with Maury after the split, there is no indication of animosity. Instead, both seem to have moved on peacefully, focusing on their families and careers.
Conclusion
Phyllis Minkoff may be best known as the former wife of Maury Povich, but her story extends far beyond that role. She is a woman who built her own career in communications, raised four successful daughters, and committed herself to social and political causes. Through her marriages, personal challenges, and professional achievements, she has shown resilience and strength. Today, at 83, she remains dedicated to her family and her values, living a life that is meaningful and impactful.
Phyllis Minkoff’s journey is proof that while fame may shine a spotlight, true influence often comes from steady work, quiet dedication, and the choices made away from the cameras.
FAQs About Phyllis Minkoff
Who is Phyllis Minkoff?
She is an American public relations and communications expert, best known as the first wife of television host Maury Povich.
How old is Phyllis Minkoff?
She was born on February 15, 1941, making her 83 years old as of 2024.
How many children does Phyllis Minkoff have?
She has four daughters: Susan Anne and Amy Joyce with Maury Povich, and Shoshana Nudel and Janice Gondelman with Phillip Baskin.
Was Phyllis Minkoff Maury Povich’s first wife?
Yes, she married him in 1962, and they divorced in 1979 after 17 years of marriage.
Did Phyllis Minkoff remarry after Maury Povich?
Yes, in 1980 she married attorney and councilman Phillip Baskin. They were married until his passing in 2005.
What is Phyllis Minkoff’s net worth?
Her net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, primarily from her career in public relations and communications.
Where is Phyllis Minkoff now?
She currently resides in Greater Pittsburgh, where she focuses on philanthropy, political engagement, and family life.
