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Judge Judy Sheindlin with husband Jerry | Source: Getty Images
Judge Judy Sheindlin with husband Jerry | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Remarried Her Husband Because She ‘Missed’ Him – They Found Happiness Together with 13 Grandkids

Milly Wanjiku Ndirangu
Oct 26, 2023
10:50 A.M.
  • Judge Judy Sheindlin and her husband, Jerry, found enduring love after a divorce and a second marriage.
  • This heartwarming love story is a testament to the power of second chances and the enduring bond of a more than four-decade marriage.
  • Beyond the courtroom, discover the 'softer' side of this iconic judge as she showers love on her 13 grandchildren, one of whom follows in her legal footsteps.
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Judge Judy Sheindlin and her husband, Judge Jerry Sheindlin, backstage at the Broadway hit "The Performers" on November 10, 2012, in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Sheindlin and her husband, Judge Jerry Sheindlin, backstage at the Broadway hit "The Performers" on November 10, 2012, in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Tha famous judge found love and happiness not once but twice with Jerry Sheindlin. After their first marriage, they encountered a brief hiccup in their relationship that led to a divorce. But after a while, Judy realized that she couldn't be without him. She once famously said:

"I missed Jerry. I like to have someone to fuss over. I like to be mated. It's natural for me."

Judge Judy Sheindlin spotted in Los Angeles, California on July 9, 2018 | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Sheindlin spotted in Los Angeles, California on July 9, 2018 | Source: Getty Images

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The realization that they couldn't be without each other led to a second chance at love. A year after their divorce, the couple reunited and remarried. This experience taught Judy a profound lesson: that sometimes, what you think makes you happy won't.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, she aspired to have a "great love affair" like her parents, who were known for their passionate love story spanning 48 years.

Judge Judy Sheindlin and husband Jerry Sheindlin in Los Angeles, California on December 15, 2017 | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Sheindlin and husband Jerry Sheindlin in Los Angeles, California on December 15, 2017 | Source: Getty Images

While her father encouraged her to be "something different" than a housewife, she was determined to find a husband. However, Judy's ambitions extended beyond matrimony.

Despite her initial marriage to lawyer Ronald Levy in 1964 and the birth of their two children, Jamie and Adam, Judy couldn't quell her desire for more.

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Judge Judy Sheindlin on stage at the 2017 Forbes Women's Summit in New York City on June 13, 2017 | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Sheindlin on stage at the 2017 Forbes Women's Summit in New York City on June 13, 2017 | Source: Getty Images

She returned to school to pursue a master's degree in family law. Her relentless commitment to her career became a point of contention in her marriage.

Ronald viewed it as a mere hobby that interfered with his own legal practice. Their differences ultimately led to the end of their marriage, marking the first divorce in Judy's family.

Jerry and Judy Sheindlin visit 'Good Morning America' in New York City on October 7, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

Jerry and Judy Sheindlin visit 'Good Morning America' in New York City on October 7, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

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Amidst the challenging period of her divorce, Judy met Jerry, a man who would change the course of her life.

Their love story began in a New York bar, an unexpected setting for what would eventually become one of the most enduring love stories in television history.

Judy Sheindlin and Jerry Sheindlin photographed in Los Angeles, California on March 14, 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Judy Sheindlin and Jerry Sheindlin photographed in Los Angeles, California on March 14, 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Jerry, a Korean War veteran turned attorney, found himself in the midst of a passionate discussion about a murder case he had just defended. Judy, a prosecutor at the time, strolled in and, with a pointed finger, interrupted their conversation. In a matter-of-fact tone, she inquired, "And who is this?"

Not one to be deterred, Jerry firmly replied, "Lady, get your finger out of my face." Little did they know, this fiery encounter would be the start of something truly remarkable. Their chemistry was undeniable, even if they occasionally found themselves in fiery arguments.

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Judy Sheindlin and Jerry Sheindlin spotted in Los Angeles, California on May 2, 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Judy Sheindlin and Jerry Sheindlin spotted in Los Angeles, California on May 2, 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Judy Sheindlin candidly admitted that they had fights, but there was something about their connection that couldn't be put into words. However, their undeniable connection was put to the test when Judy's father, who had always been her rock, passed away.

Overwhelmed with grief, she channeled her emotions into anger towards Jerry, who she felt wasn't providing the support she needed during this trying time. They tried dating other people, but after a year, they both couldn't ignore the undeniable truth that they wanted to be together.

Judge Judy Sheindlin with her Lifetime Achievement Award at the 46th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards - Press Room on May 5, 2019, in Pasadena, California | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Sheindlin with her Lifetime Achievement Award at the 46th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards - Press Room on May 5, 2019, in Pasadena, California | Source: Getty Images

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Judy revealed that she had to reckon with the expectations of men of that era, who often anticipated being cared for and pampered. It was a compromise that has proved more than worthwhile, as they've now been happily married for more than four decades, cherishing their life with five children and a whopping 13 grandchildren. Judy candidly admitted:

"We argue, and we have terrific fights, but there is something that you can't quite put your finger on."

Judge Judy and Jerry Sheindlin at the 46th annual Daytime Emmy Awards on May 5, 2019, in Pasadena, California | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy and Jerry Sheindlin at the 46th annual Daytime Emmy Awards on May 5, 2019, in Pasadena, California | Source: Getty Images

Jerry proved to be a significant support for Judy when she embarked on her journey to become the legendary TV judge we know today. Her self-titled show, "Judge Judy," kicked off in 1995, and it quickly propelled her to the status of the queen of daytime television. She was determined to balance both a family and a career, so she worked extra hard.

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Judge Judy Sheindlin photographed on June 13, 2016, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Sheindlin photographed on June 13, 2016, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

But it's not just her professional success that defines her; it's the message she imparts to women all over the world.

Judy has a word of advice for those who believe that marrying a wealthy man is the key to happiness. In her candid words, she believes that women should have something of their own, independent of a spouse.

Judge Judy Sheindlin presents the Best Interview Feature award at the 46th Annual Gracie Awards on October 5, 2021 | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Sheindlin presents the Best Interview Feature award at the 46th Annual Gracie Awards on October 5, 2021 | Source: Getty Images

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After the final taping of "Judge Judy" in early April 2021, the legal luminary turned TV personality revealed that she had been trying her best to enjoy a well-deserved retirement at their home in Naples, Florida, shared with her beloved husband.

Their appearances together post-retirement reveal a couple brimming with happiness, taking leisurely walks in California, radiating genuine joy and love.

Judge Judy Sheindlin and Jerry Sheindlin spotted in Beverly Hills, California on December 17, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Sheindlin and Jerry Sheindlin spotted in Beverly Hills, California on December 17, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

But the court is not adjourned for Judy; she's embarked on a new journey with her show "Judy Justice," produced by Amazon Studios.

While her career continues to evolve, she remains true to her unique style, unapologetically being herself. In her own words, she does what she does and isn't becoming a ballet dancer.

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Judge Judy Sheindlin and her husband Jerry Sheindlin spotted in Los Angeles, California on November 22, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Sheindlin and her husband Jerry Sheindlin spotted in Los Angeles, California on November 22, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Beyond her no-nonsense persona on screen, Judy is a loving matriarch. She dotes on her 13 grandchildren, often spoiling them, as she candidly admits.

But it's not just about lavish gifts; it's about the love she showers on her family. They know that behind the tough exterior, she's a fantastic problem solver, especially for those she holds dear.

Judge Judy Sheindlin on the set of her television show in Los Angeles, California, on December 2, 1997 | Source: Getty Images

Judge Judy Sheindlin on the set of her television show in Los Angeles, California, on December 2, 1997 | Source: Getty Images

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In these intimate family moments, we see the softer, supportive side of Judge Judy. Her granddaughter, Sarah Rose, decided to follow in her footsteps and become a lawyer. Sarah's journey was shaped not only by her grandmother's influence but also by the invaluable life lessons she received.

Iconic figure Judge Judy Sheindlin photographed in Los Angeles, California, in December 1996 | Source: Getty Images

Iconic figure Judge Judy Sheindlin photographed in Los Angeles, California, in December 1996 | Source: Getty Images

She emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and self-definition, noting that Judy has been a guiding light in this regard. In a unique twist, Sarah joined her grandmother as her law clerk, adding a fresh generational perspective to their discussions.

This dynamic showcases a healthy discourse between generations, even when they may not always agree. Sarah shares that her sassy "nana" also has a softer, supportive side that she's had the privilege to witness.

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In the end, the love story of Judge Judy and Jerry isn't just about the trials and tribulations of a renowned judge. It's a testament to the power of love, second chances, and the enduring bond between two people who found happiness together.

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