14 Years, Two Hit Songs, And A 'Controlling' Divorce: The Untold Story Of Linda Thompson And David Foster Today

The relationship between legendary songwriter and producer David Foster and former beauty queen and lyricist Linda Thompson remains one of Hollywood’s most fascinating and complex entanglements. Spanning 14 years of marriage, a contentious divorce, and a surprising post-split friendship, their story is a masterclass in modern co-parenting and professional collaboration. As of late 2024 and into 2025, Thompson has frequently spoken about the enduring bond Foster maintains with her sons, Brandon and Brody Jenner, proving that even after a split, family ties in the celebrity world can remain strong and supportive.

Thompson, who had previously been married to Caitlyn Jenner (then Bruce Jenner) and famously dated Elvis Presley, found a creative and romantic partner in Foster. Their union was less about reality television drama—though they did appear on *The Princes of Malibu*—and more about a powerful artistic synergy that produced some of the biggest hits of the 1990s. Yet, the end of their marriage in 2005 revealed a more challenging side, detailed candidly in Thompson's critically acclaimed memoir, *A Little Thing Called Life*.

Linda Thompson and David Foster: A Dual Biography and Timeline

The marriage of Linda Thompson and David Foster united a celebrated lyricist and a powerhouse music producer, creating a creative partnership that was almost as significant as their romantic one. Their combined professional achievements are staggering, including multiple Grammy Awards and Oscar nominations.

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• Linda Thompson (Born May 23, 1950, Memphis, Tennessee):
  • Profession: Actress, Lyricist, Songwriter, Former Miss Tennessee Universe.
  • Notable Works: Co-wrote "I Have Nothing" (Whitney Houston), "Grown-Up Christmas List" (Natalie Cole), and "Tell Me in the Morning" (Kenny Rogers).
  • Marriages: Caitlyn Jenner (1981–1986), David Foster (1991–2005).
  • Children: Brandon Jenner and Brody Jenner (with Caitlyn Jenner).
  • Net Worth: Estimated at $25 million.
• David Foster (Born November 1, 1949, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada):
  • Profession: Record Producer, Composer, Arranger, Musician.
  • Notable Works: Produced for Céline Dion, Josh Groban, Michael Bublé, and countless others.
  • Awards: 16-time Grammy Award winner from 47 nominations.
  • Marriages: B.J. Cook (1972–1981), Rebecca Dyer (1982–1986), Linda Thompson (1991–2005), Yolanda Hadid (2011–2017), Katharine McPhee (2019–Present).
  • Children: Allison, Amy, Sara, Erin, Jordan, and Rennie (with Katharine McPhee).
  • Net Worth: Estimated at $150 million.
• Relationship Timeline:
  • 1991: Linda Thompson and David Foster marry on June 27.
  • 1992: They co-write the Oscar-nominated and Grammy-winning mega-hit "I Have Nothing" for the film *The Bodyguard*, sung by Whitney Houston.
  • 1990s: They co-write the perennial holiday classic "Grown-Up Christmas List," first recorded by Foster and Natalie Cole.
  • 2005: The couple divorces after 14 years of marriage.

The Powerful Creative Synergy: Co-Writing Grammy-Winning Hits

While their personal life was often in the spotlight, especially due to Linda Thompson’s prior association with Elvis Presley and Caitlyn Jenner, the true legacy of their marriage lies in their professional output. Thompson and Foster weren't just a celebrity couple; they were a formidable songwriting team.

Their most recognizable joint work is arguably the iconic ballad "I Have Nothing." Co-written by the duo and performed by Whitney Houston for the 1992 blockbuster *The Bodyguard*, the song earned them an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. The song is a staple of pop history and a testament to Foster's arranging genius combined with Thompson's heartfelt lyricism.

Another enduring piece of their collaboration is the holiday standard "Grown-Up Christmas List." Released in 1990, the song has been covered by numerous artists, including Amy Grant and Kelly Clarkson, solidifying its place as a modern Christmas classic. They also co-wrote "Light the Fire," further cementing their relationship as one of mutual artistic respect and productivity.

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The Candid Memoir and Surprising Divorce Details

In her 2016 memoir, *A Little Thing Called Life*, Linda Thompson offered a level of detail about her marriage to David Foster that surprised many fans. While she praised his talent and acknowledged the good years, she also shed light on the emotional complexities that led to their divorce in 2005.

Thompson candidly described Foster as having a "controlling" and "jealous" nature during their 14-year union. This revelation provided a deeper understanding of the pressures within the marriage, particularly given Foster’s demanding career as a producer of global superstars. The split was amicable enough to allow for continued professional and family interactions, but Thompson’s book ensured the public understood the personal toll of their high-profile relationship.

Following their divorce, Foster went on to marry reality star Yolanda Hadid, and later, singer and actress Katharine McPhee, with whom he welcomed a son in 2021. Thompson’s willingness to discuss the age gap between Foster and McPhee, suggesting it was their "biggest deterrent," shows her continued, albeit distant, observation of his personal life.

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Their Enduring Family Connection in 2025

The most remarkable aspect of the Linda Thompson and David Foster story today is their successful transition to a harmonious, blended family dynamic. Despite the divorce and the candid memoir details, Thompson has consistently highlighted Foster's commitment to her sons from her previous marriage, Brandon Jenner and Brody Jenner.

Thompson has confirmed in recent statements that Foster remains "present" in the lives of Brandon and Brody, who consider him a father figure. This is particularly notable given that Foster and the Jenner brothers appeared together on the reality show *The Princes of Malibu* in 2005. Foster’s dedication extends to attending important family events, such as the recent birthday celebration for Brandon Jenner's twins.

This modern, blended family approach is a testament to the respect that Thompson and Foster ultimately maintained for each other, prioritizing the well-being and stability of the Jenner boys. Their story—from co-writing massive hits to managing a complex divorce and maintaining a decades-long family bond—serves as a unique example of how Hollywood relationships can evolve beyond the spotlight into a genuine, lasting connection.