The Three Wives Of Phil Hartman: Unveiling The Tragic Life And Shocking Death Of The SNL Legend

The legacy of Phil Hartman, the beloved Canadian-American comedian and actor, is forever shadowed by the shocking circumstances of his death in 1998. On this day, December 18, 2025, while his brilliant career on shows like *Saturday Night Live* and *NewsRadio* continues to be celebrated, the curiosity surrounding his private life, particularly his three marriages, remains a compelling and tragic subject for fans. The narrative of his life is one of immense comedic talent intertwined with a deeply troubled personal journey, culminating in a devastating murder-suicide that left the world stunned and his two young children orphaned. The focus of much of the historical and current discussion centers on his third wife, Brynn Hartman (born Brynn Omdahl), whose actions brought an abrupt and violent end to both their lives. However, understanding the full context of Phil Hartman's romantic life requires looking at the women who came before her, each playing a role in the evolution of the man behind the iconic voices. This article provides a deep dive into the complete profile of the star and the three women he married.

Phil Hartman: A Full Biographical Profile

Philip Edward "Phil" Hartman, born Philip Edward Hartmann, was a Canadian-American actor, comedian, screenwriter, and graphic artist whose career spanned over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on comedy and animation. His versatility in character work earned him the moniker "The Glue" on *Saturday Night Live*.

• Full Name: Philip Edward Hartmann (later changed to Hartman)
• Born: September 24, 1948, in Brantford, Ontario, Canada
• Died: May 28, 1998, in Encino, California, U.S. (Age 49)
• Cause of Death: Shot by his wife, Brynn Hartman, in a murder-suicide.
• Education: California State University, Northridge (Graphic Arts)
• Career Highlights:
  • Graphic Artist: Designed album covers for bands like Poco and America.
  • The Groundlings: Joined the famous comedy troupe in 1975.
  • *Saturday Night Live* (1986–1994): Known for impressions of Bill Clinton, Frank Sinatra, and his original characters.
  • *NewsRadio* (1995–1998): Played the character Bill McNeal.
  • *The Simpsons*: Voiced iconic recurring characters like Troy McClure and Lionel Hutz.
• Children: Sean Edward Hartman and Birgen Anika Hartman.

The Three Marriages: From Brief Unions to the Tragic End

Phil Hartman was married three times in his life. His first two marriages were relatively brief and ended in divorce, a common outcome for many in the demanding world of entertainment. His third marriage, however, was the one that became a source of both profound joy and ultimate devastation.

1. Gretchen Lewis (1970–1972): The First Wife

Hartman's first marriage was to Gretchen Lewis in 1970. This union was his shortest, lasting only two years before ending in divorce in 1972. Little is known about Lewis or the details of their relationship, as it occurred before Hartman achieved widespread fame. At the time, Hartman was focusing on his graphic design career and just beginning his journey into the world of comedy, which may have contributed to the brief duration of the marriage.

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2. Lisa Strain (1982–1985): The Second Wife

Ten years after his first divorce, Phil Hartman married real estate agent Lisa Strain in 1982. This marriage lasted three years, ending in divorce in 1985. Strain, who has also been referred to as Lisa Ann Jarvis, later spoke about the challenges of being married to the rising star. She noted that while Phil was a calming and kind influence, the pressures of their respective careers and the demands of his burgeoning comedy work made it difficult for them to sustain the relationship. They divorced amicably, a stark contrast to the turbulent relationship that would follow.

3. Brynn Hartman (1987–1998): The Final, Fatal Chapter

Phil Hartman met Brynn Omdahl, an aspiring model and actress, in 1986, and they married in 1987. Brynn, a former New York City nanny, was 12 years younger than Phil and came to embody the complex, difficult final chapter of the comedian's life. They had two children together, Sean Edward and Birgen Anika.

The marriage was reportedly troubled, marked by Brynn's struggles with substance abuse, her frustration with her own stalled career, and a growing jealousy over Phil's immense success and busy schedule. Phil Hartman was known to be a dedicated, hardworking, and patient man, but the emotional volatility in the home was a constant source of stress for the couple. Brynn's friends and family noted her escalating issues, including a dependency on alcohol and prescription drugs, which were compounded by her feelings of inadequacy compared to her famous husband.

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The Shocking Details of the Murder-Suicide

The tragic events of May 28, 1998, remain one of Hollywood's most devastating and unexpected losses. The details, as reported by police sources, paint a picture of a night fueled by emotional distress and substance use.

• The Incident: In the early morning hours, after a night out and a reported argument, Brynn Hartman entered the couple's bedroom in their Encino, California, home. Phil Hartman was asleep. Brynn shot him three times—twice in the head and once in the side—killing him instantly.
• The Aftermath: Brynn subsequently fled the scene but later returned. While at the home, she called her sister, Katharine Omdahl, and confessed to the murder. By the time police arrived, Brynn had barricaded herself in the bedroom. As the officers were evacuating the two young children, she took her own life with a gunshot to the head.
• Toxicology Report: The autopsy revealed that Brynn Hartman had a mix of substances in her blood at the time of her death, including alcohol, cocaine, and a prescription antidepressant, Trazodone. This combination is believed to have contributed significantly to her emotional state and the subsequent, devastating loss of control.

The Legacy and The Children: Where Are Phil Hartman's Kids Now?

The immediate and long-term impact of the murder-suicide fell most heavily on Phil and Brynn's two young children, Sean Edward and Birgen Anika Hartman, who were only 9 and 6 years old, respectively, when they lost both parents.

Custody and Upbringing

In the wake of the tragedy, the children were sent to live with their maternal aunt, Katharine Omdahl, and her husband, Mike Omdahl, in the Midwest. This arrangement was specified in Phil Hartman’s will, which named Brynn’s sister as the guardian for the children. The couple worked hard to raise Sean and Birgen out of the intense media spotlight, giving them a quiet, low-profile life away from Hollywood.

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The Hartman Estate

Phil Hartman's estate, which was estimated at $1.23 million at the time, was left entirely to his two children. The will stipulated that Brynn's brother would be the custodian of the estate, ensuring the financial security of Sean and Birgen. The estate was managed to provide for their care and future, a final, loving act by the beloved comedian.

Sean and Birgen Today

Both Sean and Birgen Hartman have maintained a deliberate distance from the public eye. Birgen Anika Hartman is now happily married and has occasionally spoken about the importance of keeping her father's memory alive, particularly through his creative work. Sean Edward Hartman has also pursued a quiet life, with both siblings focusing on honoring their father's legacy through their personal lives rather than seeking celebrity. Their ability to move forward and lead stable lives after such a traumatic event is a testament to the care provided by their guardians and their own resilience.

The story of Phil Hartman’s wives, especially the final, tragic chapter with Brynn Hartman, serves as a poignant reminder of the hidden struggles behind the curtain of fame. The details of the murder-suicide are a dark footnote to a career that brought joy to millions, but the enduring kindness of Phil Hartman and the quiet strength of his children, Sean and Birgen, continue to define his true legacy.