John William McDonald: Eartha Kitt's Husband

Clay Schaefer 27 May 2025

Who was the man behind the captivating Eartha Kitt? John William McDonald, a name whispered in the shadows of a legend, played a pivotal role in the life of the iconic singer and actress. His story, a blend of resilience, love, and heartbreak, deserves to be told.

John William McDonald, a Korean War veteran, crossed paths with Eartha Kitt at the height of her fame. Their whirlwind romance culminated in a 1960 marriage, a union that produced a daughter, Kitt Shapiro. However, the fairy tale was short-lived. The pressures of Kitt's demanding career and McDonald's personal struggles, including reported substance abuse, led to their separation in 1963 and subsequent divorce in 1964. While McDonald may not be a household name, his influence on Kitt's life, and the life of their daughter, is undeniable.

Full Name	John William McDonald
Born	April 12, 1923, Los Angeles, California
Died	Information unavailable (Multiple records exist, requiring further verification)
Spouse	Eartha Kitt (m. 1960; div. 1964)
Children	Kitt Shapiro (born Kitt McDonald)
Occupation	Real Estate Investor, Businessman, US Army Veteran
Military Service	Korean War Veteran (US Army)
Known for	Marriage to Eartha Kitt, Real Estate Investments
Reference	Eartha Kitt - Wikipedia

Born in Los Angeles in 1923, McDonald's early life remains largely shrouded in mystery. What is known is his service in the Korean War, a period that left him with significant injuries requiring numerous surgeries. This experience undoubtedly shaped the man he became, fostering a resilience that would carry him through both personal and professional challenges.

After his military service, McDonald transitioned into the world of business, focusing on real estate investment. He found success in this field, becoming an associate at a real estate investment company. It was during this period that he met Eartha Kitt, a captivating performer whose star was on the rise. Their connection was immediate, leading to a whirlwind romance and marriage in June 1960.

Their daughter, Kitt, was born the following year, baptized at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. These early years of marriage appeared idyllic, with photographs capturing a happy family. However, beneath the surface, tensions were brewing. Kitt's career demanded constant travel and public appearances, placing a strain on their relationship. Compounding these pressures were McDonald's personal struggles, including reports of drug addiction. These challenges proved insurmountable, leading to their separation in 1963 and final divorce in 1964. Eartha Kitt was granted custody of their daughter, with McDonald obligated to provide child support.

The details of McDonald's life following the divorce remain scarce. He faded from the public eye, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the luminous Eartha Kitt. While his marriage to Kitt was relatively brief, its impact on both their lives was profound. For Kitt, it was a chapter marked by both love and heartbreak. For McDonald, it was a period of both triumph and tribulation, a testament to his resilience in the face of adversity.

While some biographical details regarding John William McDonald are conflicting, requiring further investigation, his connection to Eartha Kitt remains a significant part of her story. His life, though largely lived outside the spotlight, offers a glimpse into the complexities of love, loss, and the enduring power of the human spirit. The story of John William McDonald serves as a reminder that even those who stand in the shadows of legends have their own stories to tell, stories that deserve to be heard.

John William McDonald, a man known primarily for his connection to Eartha Kitt, deserves to be recognized as an individual who navigated the complexities of life with both strength and vulnerability. His story, though fragmented, is a valuable piece of the Eartha Kitt narrative, adding depth and understanding to the life of this remarkable woman.