Country music artist Trace Adkins has lived a very eventful life. The rough and tumble crooner has survived multiple injuries, three divorces, and alcohol addiction. Yet, somehow, he has always managed to make it. Learn more about his marriage to Rhonda Forlaw Adkins below!
Before Rhonda Forlaw Adkins
Prior to meeting Rhonda, Trace Adkins had been twice married and divorced. His first wife, Barbara Lewis, was Trace’s high school sweetheart. They married and had two daughters, Tarah and Sarah. Their marriage ended after only 4 years. In 1991, Trace married Julie Curtis. Their union ended in 1994 after she accidentally shot Trace in the chest during an argument. His injuries left him fighting for his life. Surprisingly enough, the singer didn’t press charges against Curtis and the couple divorced after three years of marriage.
Meeting Rhonda
Rhonda Forlaw first spotted Trace Adkins while he was playing in a club. During a past interview with PEOPLE, she claimed, “The first time I saw him, I knew he was going to be a star.” At the time Rhonda worked as a publicity manager at Arista Records. Through her connections, she helped Trace land a deal with Capitol Nashville. In 1996, Trace released his debut album, Dreamin’ Out Loud, establishing him as a rising star. The album produced several hit singles, including his first Top 5 single, “Every Light in the House.”
The Proposal
Trace managed to propose to Rhonda during his first performance at the Grand Ole Opry in 1996. The audience was given a special treat when he got down on his knee and popped the question. Rhonda accepted his proposal on stage in front of thousands of Opry fans. Trace’s grand proposal was followed by a lavish Nashville wedding.
Their Life Together
Trace Adkins married Rhonda Forlaw on May 11, 1997. The couple exchanged vows at Nashville’s beautiful historic Belle Meade Mansion before more than 500 guests. Following the exchange of wedding rings, Trace serenaded Rhonda with a song he wrote with Kenny Beard, “The Rest of Mine.” The event was described as being a fairy tale.
Sadly, their union didn’t come with a ‘happily ever after’ ending. In March 2014, Rhonda filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences. She also filed for primary custody of their three daughters – Mackenzie (21), Brianna (17), and Trinity (14). According to Trace’s attorney, Larry Hayes, Jr, the pair settled their divorce amicably in the first half of 2015.
We wish Trace, Rhonda, and their daughters the best as they are navigating this next chapter of their lives!
Rhonda & Mackenzie
Parents Weekend at Tennessee. So proud of our sweet and smart Mackenzie. Nothing makes me happier than when I see the girls happy 🧡 pic.twitter.com/VPv76CCW0Q
— Rhonda Forlaw Adkins (@RhondaAdkins) September 17, 2018
Mackenzie, Brianna, & Trinity
French Rivera in the background. The only Rivera I had been to before was @johnrich Red Neck Rivera pic.twitter.com/6JCunplXek
— Rhonda Forlaw Adkins (@RhondaAdkins) July 20, 2018
Brianna, Mackenzie, & Trinity
So happy to see Mackenzie! She’s been studying abroad in Italy for the past six weeks pic.twitter.com/i6InN1u8GK
— Rhonda Forlaw Adkins (@RhondaAdkins) July 17, 2018
Rhonda with Brianna & Mackenzie
Avatar/Pandora was amazing pic.twitter.com/DEScQK1b4e
— Rhonda Forlaw Adkins (@RhondaAdkins) April 1, 2018
