Country music star Shania Twain first crossed paths in person with producer Robert “Mutt” Lange at Nashville’s Fan Fair in June 1993. Lange had heard the budding superstar’s debut album, which prompted him track her down via telephone to offer to produce and write songs with her. Not long after that fateful face-to-face meeting, the pair were wed on December 28, 1993. Learn more about Shania Twain’s ex-husband below!
Shania Twain’s Ex-Husband Mutt on Their Wedding Day
Early Life and Career
Robert Lange was born on November 11, 1948, in Mufulira, Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia). Raised in South Africa, Lange developed a love for music early on. He began his career as a musician but soon discovered his knack for music production and songwriting. By the late 1970s, Lange had become one of the most sought-after producers in the rock music world, working with legendary bands like AC/DC, Def Leppard, and Foreigner. Lange’s signature style involved lush, layered production and an uncanny ability to craft radio-friendly hits. His work earned him a reputation as a perfectionist, and his influence extended across multiple genres, from rock to pop and eventually country.
Besides Shania, he’s worked closely with artists such as Maroon 5, Lady Gaga, and Muse among many others. Interestingly enough, Shania’s 1997 album Come On Over, which Mutt also produced, has earned a multitude of distinctions that will be hard to top. It’s overall the best-selling country music album, the best-selling album of the 1990s, the best-selling studio album by a female artist, and the 9th best-selling album of any genre in the United States. Through their wildly successful musical collaborations and their 19-year-old son Eja (pronounced Asia), who was born on August 12, 2001, Shania and Mutt will always be linked.
Shania and Mutt’s Son, Eja, as an Infant
On May 15, 2008, a spokesperson for Twain’s Mercury Nashville record label made the startling announcement that after 14 years of marriage Twain and Lange were separating. Lange allegedly had an affair with Twain’s best friend and the manager of the pair’s Swiss estate, Marie-Anne Thiébaud. The former power couple’s divorce was finalized two years later on June 9, 2010.
Shania was absolutely devastated by the hurtful betrayal and recalled randomly encountering ‘the other woman’ while appearing on Watch What Happens Live, “I had a total panic attack,” Twain divulged to host Andy Cohen. “I just told her that she was a bad person—that’s all I could get out!”
Fortunately, Shania had someone special to help her through this dark time in her life, oddly enough it was Marie-Anne’s ex-husband Frédéric Thiébaud who stepped up to the plate.
“It was a very difficult time emotionally for both of us. I would say that he was probably stronger through it than I was,” she shared with Ellen DeGeneres. “He was a tremendous support; we were a support to each other and really found something beautiful in the end and unexpected.”
On December 20, 2010, Twain’s manager confirmed the news that Shania was engaged to Swiss-born Frédéric. The country music star wed the Nestlé executive on January 1, 2011 in Rincón, Puerto Rico.
“Life just has to play out the way its meant to, and how can I complain about the way it ended up?” she sagely quipped.
Shania with Husband Frédéric
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As for Mutt, he ended up marrying Marie-Anne. According to The Post, Twain co-parents with her ex-husband but has no interest in engaging with her former close friend. “I don’t invite that trigger into my life… She’s not my future. She’s my past,” Twain shared with the outlet.
Though Mutt and Shania’s love story ended on a very sour note, both appear to have found happiness elsewhere. We wish them the best as they continue their top-notch careers and being there for their son as a unit.
Legacy and Impact
Robert “Mutt” Lange’s contributions to music are undeniable. His work with Shania Twain not only revolutionized country music but also set new standards for crossover success. While their personal relationship ended in controversy, their professional partnership created some of the most memorable songs in modern music history.
Twain’s albums produced by Lange have sold tens of millions of copies worldwide, and hits like “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” and “You’re Still the One” continue to resonate with fans across generations. Lange’s meticulous production style and ear for hits have left an enduring legacy, cementing his place as one of the most influential producers in the industry.
Conclusion
Robert “Mutt” Lange’s story is one of brilliance, controversy, and lasting impact. While his marriage to Shania Twain ended in heartbreak, their collaboration remains a testament to the power of creative synergy. Today, both Twain and Lange continue to leave their marks on the music world, each following their unique paths.
