Robin Givens is an American actress who rose to fame from her appearance in the television series Head of the Class. She is also renowned for being the ex-wife of the retired boxing champion, Mike Tyson. While her marriage to Tyson was brief, Robin has had an intriguing life with a successful entertainment career and a strong voice in advocating for victims of domestic violence.
Quick Facts About Robin Givens
| Full Name | Robin Simone Givens |
| Birthdate | November 27, 1964 |
| Occupation | Actress, Director, Producer |
| Husband/Wife | Svetozar Marinkovic (m. 1997–1998), Mike Tyson (m. 1988–1989) |
| Education | Graduate of Sarah Lawrence College |
| Age
Height |
60 years and 5 months old
1.65 m |
| Parents | Ruth Roper Givens, Reuben Givens |
| Siblings | Stephanie Givens |
| Children | Michael “Buddy” Givens (adopted, 1993), William Givens Jensen (born 1999) |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $10 million |
Early Life and Career
Robin Givens was born on November 27, 1964, in New York City. She grew up in a close family and later studied at Sarah Lawrence College, where she started pursuing her dream career of acting. Robin’s breakout came in 1986 when she was offered a role in the hit sitcom Head of the Class as Darlene Merriman. She remained a part of the show for the full five-year duration, which made her a household name in Hollywood.
Robin also made various movie appearances, among them Boomerang (1992) with Eddie Murphy. She became recognized for her bold screen presence and looks. Throughout the years, Robin’s work has ventured into directing and production.
Marriage to Mike Tyson
In 1988, Robin wedded Mike Tyson, a world-renowned boxer. They had been together for approximately a year before they got married on February 7, 1988. Their marriage, however, did not last long.
The marriage between Robin and Mike Tyson was plagued with issues. Robin openly accused Tyson of physical and emotional abuse. In an interview with Barbara Walters in 1988, Robin called the marriage “pure hell.” She stated she was afraid of Tyson’s temper and violence. Tyson himself denied the abuse, stating Robin was attempting to manipulate him.
Only eight months later, Robin got a divorce from him in October 1988 on grounds of abuse. They finalized the divorce in February of 1989. Robin’s courageous act to talk about what happened to her made people think about the situation of domestic violence.
Life After Divorce
Following the divorce, Robin pursued her career and personal life. In 1993, as a single parent, she adopted her first son, Michael “Buddy” Givens. She eventually had another son, William, in 1999, with tennis player Murphy Jensen.
Robin kept appearing on television programs such as Riverdale and Batwoman, even breaking into direction for the first time with a movie of Lifetime in 2020 titled A Murder to Remember. Through this all, she stayed close to family and was dedicated to developing a strong, successful, and fulfilling life.
Advocacy for Domestic Violence Survivors
One of the most significant things Robin has ever done since she was divorced is that she has become an advocate for survivors of domestic violence. She has also shared her own experience with abuse, which has helped others who have gone through the same. Robin has been collaborating with such organizations as the National Domestic Violence Hotline to create awareness and offer assistance to victims.
She hopes her experience can motivate individuals to voice their opinions and seek help when they need it. Robin’s willingness to speak out has been a life-changer for so many.
READ ALSO: Mike Tyson Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Controversy After Divorce
Even after they divorced, Robin’s relationship with Mike Tyson was always controversial. Tyson made some hard statements regarding their marriage, one of which included an accusation that he caught Robin in bed with actor Brad Pitt. Robin countered these claims by stating that she and Brad Pitt were never a couple. She stated the situation was misunderstood and that they were merely caught riding in a car together.
Though all these allegations stoked the embers of their complicated history, Robin kept concentrating on taking the next step towards living her life and career ahead.
