Fans of Kathie Lee Gifford have long been fascinated by the former “Today” show fixture’s personal life. Many have speculated she wouldn’t find love again after the death of her husband, Frank Gifford, in 2015. Meet Richard Spitz, a Nashville businessman who was her partner for years.
Meeting in Nashville
In 2019, Kathie Lee moved to Nashville, Tennessee, for a new chapter. During this time, she met Richard Spitz, who lived next door in the same gated community. Their near distances made way for their relationship to thrive.
Richard Spitz: The Businessman
Richard Spitz is a businessman and serves as the Director of Strong Force Innovation Portfolios. It is a company that builds intellectual property portfolios. His career and common interests with Kathie Lee, such as faith and family, brought them together.
A Private Relationship
Kathie Lee and Richard decided to keep their relationship on the low. When Kathie Lee mentioned in August 2022 that she had someone special in her life, she didn’t go into specifics. Not talking about it in public also meant the relationship was special or something like that.
Public Appearances
Although they preferred to keep things private, the two were seen together at times. They were spotted grabbing dinner and going to a gym class in Nashville. Those sightings cemented their relationship with the rest of the world.
Challenges and Speculations
They had their fair share of ups and downs, including rumors about Kathie Lee getting over her deceased husband, Frank Gifford. Richard apparently found the notion of going up against Frank’s ghost difficult. But Kathie Lee’s friends worry over whether she’s really ready to open her heart again.
The Breakup
However, Kathie Lee and Richard reportedly split in early 2024. Kathie Lee herself confirmed the split and said that she was living by a new motto of sorts: “My joy is non-negotiable.” Personal happiness should come first, and not every relationship is a marriage endgame.
Life After the Split
After the split, Kathie Lee turned her attention to family, friends, and faith. They were compounded by health issues, including a hip replacement and then a broken pelvis. Despite all of this, however, she stayed positive even after most never would and encouraged those around her.
Richard Spitz Moves On
Richard Spitz was spotted with a new girlfriend shortly after the breakup. And in August 2024, he was seen out on a date down in Tennessee — suggesting that he’d moved on from his romance with Kathie Lee.
Kathie Lee’s Perspective on Love
Kathie Lee has never been shy about sharing her thoughts on love and romance. Not every couple is meant to become a married couple, and she believes that personal happiness comes first. That has turned her into how she perceives things in life and makes her gracefully optimistic while still living.
A New Chapter
Kathie Lee has flown solo since November 2024, but she continues to overcome her shortcomings. Though she has not appeared in public as much, she continues to connect with their fans through work and public appearances, urging every one of us to be happy and strong throughout our journey.
