Greg Mathis, the former district court judge known for his syndicated reality show “Judge Mathis,” is facing divorce after being married since 1985. (Richard Shotwell / Invision / Associated Press) Judge Greg Mathis and his wife, Linda Yvette Mathis, are parting ways after almost four decades together. Linda Mathis filed for divorce from the “Judge Mathis” star Thursday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, citing “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the split, according to court documents reviewed by The Times. In the filing, she listed their date of separation as July 17 and noted that they have no minor children. She also applied for spousal support while asking that the court waive her husband’s right to request support from her. It is unclear whether the couple had a prenuptial agreement in place. She also requested that Greg Mathis cover her legal fees. Representatives for both parties did not reply immediately Friday to The Times’ request for comment.
The college sweethearts wed in 1985, more than a decade before the premiere of “Judge Mathis,” which ran for 24 seasons from Sept. 13, 1999, to May 25, 2023. The arbitration-based reality court show was recognized in 2004 with the NAACP Image Award for outstanding news, talk, or information series, and in 2018, it scored a Daytime Emmy for outstanding legal/courtroom program. Mathis is the longest-running Black male television host and second-longest-reigning arbitrator in courtroom TV history (behind “Judge Judy”) and in 2022 received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Before his Hollywood tenure, Mathis, 61, worked as a judge in Michigan’s 36th District Court. In 2022, he also appeared alongside his wife and four children (and multiple grandchildren) — who all live in Los Angeles — in the docuseries “Mathis Family Matters.”
The news of Judge Greg Mathis’s wife filing for divorce after nearly 39 years of marriage has left many in shock. Judge Mathis, a prominent TV personality known for his courtroom show, seemed to have it all—a successful career, a loving family, and a long-lasting marriage. However, like many couples, their marriage has reached a breaking point. Interestingly, statistics reveal that in heterosexual marriages, women are the ones who initiate divorce more often, with a staggering 69% of divorces being filed by women. But why is this the case?
The Mathis Divorce: A Surprise to Many
For nearly four decades, Judge Mathis and his wife appeared to be the epitome of a strong and enduring marriage. Their relationship has been in the public eye, and they often spoke about the love and respect they shared. However, the decision to part ways raises questions about what might have gone wrong. Could this be another example of the growing trend where women are taking the lead in ending long-term marriages?
Why Women Initiate Divorce More Often Than Men
1. Emotional Dissatisfaction
One of the primary reasons women initiate divorce is emotional dissatisfaction. Many women report feeling unfulfilled or disconnected in their marriages, often due to a lack of emotional support or communication. Over time, this emotional gap can become too wide to bridge, leading women to seek an exit from the relationship.
2. Changing Social Norms
As society evolves, so do the expectations placed on women. In the past, women were often expected to stay in marriages regardless of their personal happiness or fulfillment. However, with the rise of gender equality and women’s empowerment, many women now feel more confident in making decisions that prioritize their well-being, even if it means ending a marriage.
3. Financial Independence
The increasing financial independence of women is another significant factor. In the past, women were often financially dependent on their husbands, making it difficult to leave an unhappy marriage. Today, more women have their own careers and financial stability, which provides them with the freedom to make decisions about their marital status without fear of financial ruin.
4. Higher Expectations
Women today often have higher expectations for their marriages than previous generations. They seek not just a partner, but a companion who meets their emotional, intellectual, and physical needs. When these expectations aren’t met, women are more likely to consider divorce as a viable option.
5. Desire for Personal Growth
As individuals grow and evolve, their needs and desires may change. For many women, the pursuit of personal growth and self-fulfillment can lead to a realization that their marriage is no longer serving them. This can be especially true in long-term marriages where the couple may have grown apart over time.
The Impact on Men
While much attention is given to why women initiate divorce, it’s also important to consider the impact on men. Many men are blindsided when their wives file for divorce, often unaware of the depth of their spouse’s dissatisfaction. This can lead to feelings of confusion, betrayal, and loss. Understanding the reasons behind this trend can help both men and women navigate the complexities of modern marriage.
Conclusion:
The Mathis divorce is a reminder that even the longest marriages are not immune to the challenges that come with maintaining a relationship over time. As society continues to evolve, so too do the dynamics of marriage and divorce. Understanding why women initiate divorce more often than men is crucial for anyone looking to build and maintain a healthy, fulfilling marriage.