Full Breakdown
Maury Povich Embraces 'Gold Digger' Label in Reflection on Marriage to Connie Chung
4/6/2026, 8:08:14 PM
Income Disparity and Early Career Paths
Maury Povich, the renowned talk show host, recently reflected on the financial dynamics of his marriage to Connie Chung, a prominent broadcast journalist. In a conversation with comedian Adam Friedland for Interview magazine, Povich humorously embraced the label of "gold digger," stating, "Absolutely. My wife was making 10 times what I was making when we got married." This revelation highlights the significant income disparity that existed when they married in 1984, with Chung already established as a national television star while Povich was still building his career.
Chung's ascent in the media industry began in the early 1970s, where she became the first female co-anchor of CBS Evening News and the first Asian American to anchor a major network newscast. By 1984, she was earning between $600,000 and $4 million annually, depending on the source, while Povich was still gaining recognition through various reporting roles. Their paths first crossed in 1969 at WTTG in Washington, D.C., where Chung was a copygirl and Povich was an established reporter. Their professional relationship evolved over the years, culminating in their marriage after dating for seven years.
A Supportive Partnership
Despite the initial financial imbalance, Povich credits Chung for enabling him to achieve a fulfilling lifestyle, stating, "Only because I married Connie Chung." The couple has shared a life that includes residences in Florida, New York, and Montana, which Povich describes as "our own mountain." Their relationship has been characterized by mutual support, with Chung often standing by Povich during his controversial television career, which included sensational segments on his show.
Povich has acknowledged that their shared experiences in the media industry have fostered a deeper understanding of each other's careers. He remarked, "If you have a spouse in the same profession, there’s a lot more understanding about what’s going on." This mutual understanding has been crucial in maintaining their marriage over the past 42 years.
Criticism and Enduring Love
While Povich has faced criticism for the nature of his television show, Chung has remained a steadfast supporter. Povich noted, "More than anything else, Connie was a big supporter and she loved it." Their relationship has endured through various challenges, with Povich emphasizing the importance of resolving conflicts quickly, stating, "If we’re arguing... when your head hits the pillow at night, it’s over."
The couple has three children: Susan and Amy from Povich's first marriage, and Matthew, whom they adopted in 1995. Their partnership exemplifies that initial income disparity does not dictate long-term happiness or compatibility, as they continue to celebrate their love and shared successes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “My wife was making 10 times what I was making when we got married. How’s that?” — Maury Povich, Talk Show Host
- “Only because I married Connie Chung.” — Maury Povich, on his lifestyle
- “More than anything else, Connie was a big supporter and she loved it,” — Maury Povich, on Chung's support
Conclusion
Maury Povich's candid remarks about his marriage to Connie Chung reveal a relationship built on mutual respect and support, transcending the initial financial disparities that characterized their early years together. Their enduring partnership serves as a testament to the strength of their bond in the face of public scrutiny and personal challenges.
