Here’s Why Toni Tennille Left the Captain and What She Told Him before He Died

Toni Tennille has revealed the truths behind her divorce from Daryl Dragon, her legendary musical partner, and husband of nearly four decades.

The famous singer appeared in an interview with “Today” where she extensively discussed her book, “Tony Tennille: A Memoir” which also included her marriage and divorce from Daryl Dragon.

Back in the 70s, Tennille and Dragon were the “it” couple, and mainly, this was because they were also a band. The pair earned themselves a massive fan following, Tennille for her soulful voice and Dragon, “the captain,” for his musical skills.

Together, they made hits like “Love Will Keep Us Together,” and “Muskrat Love” which catapulted them to fame. They belonged to the elite group of musicians back then and even had a variety show of their own!

However, their close relationship became mistaken as a marriage by many people. According to reports, the duo didn't marry until their record label made an official announcement declaring they had tied the knot.

Dragon and Tennille were startled when their company released an official statement that they'd married on Valentine's Day. They, however, decided to give in after their accountant persuaded them saying they would do "a lot better with taxes” and tied the knot in a secret wedding held late in 1974.

While the pair continued to enjoy a successful career, their relationship failed. Tennille accrued this to be because of their lack of intimacy which she hinted was a result of Dragon's upbringing being the son of world-famous composer and conductor, Carmen Dragon.

Tennille said:

"Sex is not love; sex is not intimacy. He just couldn't be affectionate; he couldn't just give me a hug. ... And I don't blame him because he came from a very, very difficult family and he had a famous but overbearing father.”

Tennille’s revelation is rather unbelievable, seeing how the couple stayed married for 39 years. Even that, Tennille, disclosed was because of her relentless efforts to bring Dragon “into the light” and to make him “experience the joy” that she had enjoyed with her own family.

In 2014, Tennille decided to end the marriage, but they remained close friends. Just a few years after and aged 75, Tennille released her memoir which she also disclosed had Dragon's blessings.

Tennille will always have a special place in her heart for Dragon, and she made sure to stay with him until his demise in January 2019. Remembering their final moments together, the singer recalled her last words to Dragon:

“I said, ‘I know you’re there and want you to know that I loved you anyway.’ Then the paramedics came, and he passed away.”

May Dragon’s soul rest in peace.