Elvis Costello, born Declan Patrick MacManus on August 25, 1954, in London, is more than just a celebrated musician; he’s a cultural icon who has weathered the ups and downs of life with remarkable resilience.
With a career spanning five decades, he has earned his place as one of music’s most versatile storytellers, blending genres like punk, rock, and jazz into his repertoire.
But while his songs reveal layers of poetic brilliance, his personal life tells a story just as compelling—marked by heartaches, second chances, and ultimately, lasting happiness with his third wife, Canadian jazz sensation Diana Krall.
Elvis Costello’s Marriage with First Wife Mary Burgoyne
Costello’s first marriage to Mary Burgoyne was a story rooted in youthful romance. They had known each other since their teenage years, with Costello later admitting that he had dreamed of marrying her since he was 14. Their bond deepened when he returned to London after a period of living with his mother in Liverpool, and the couple tied the knot in 1974. Soon after, they welcomed their son, Matthew, in 1975.
However, their relationship quickly faltered under the weight of Costello’s meteoric rise to fame. He has candidly acknowledged that his infidelity, combined with the pressures of his burgeoning music career, drove a wedge between them.
They separated in 1978 but briefly reconciled in 1979, hoping to salvage what remained of their marriage. Unfortunately, the strain proved too great, and the couple separated permanently in 1984, finalizing their divorce four years later. Costello has openly expressed regret for the pain he caused Burgoyne, admitting that the failure of their marriage stemmed largely from his own actions.
Costello and Cait O’Riordan Were Together for 16 Years
Following the end of his first marriage, Costello found a creative and romantic connection with Cait O’Riordan, the bassist for the Pogues. Their paths crossed in 1984 while their bands toured together, and a year later, their relationship became official. Though they were never legally married, they exchanged rings in 1986 and presented themselves as husband and wife.
Their partnership was as much professional as it was personal, with O’Riordan contributing to Costello’s music, including his King of America album. However, beneath the surface, their marriage was fraught with challenges.
Costello later described their relationship as “miserable,” reflecting that he had stayed in it partly out of a sense of guilt and self-punishment for his earlier mistakes. After 16 years together, they amicably ended their union in 2002. Both have since spoken about the difficulties they faced during their time together, acknowledging that their marriage was far from happy.
Costello and Diana Krall’s Enduring Marriage
Elvis Costello’s third marriage to Diana Krall marked a pivotal chapter in his personal life. The pair first crossed paths in 2002 at the Grammy Awards, introduced by none other than Elton John. Their chemistry was undeniable, with Krall later recalling how Costello’s sharp wit and understated charm quickly drew her in.
Diana Krall, a renowned jazz pianist and singer with three Grammy Awards and a string of multi-platinum albums to her name, was already a towering figure in her own right. Known for her velvety voice and masterful piano skills, Krall brought not only her musical brilliance but also a steadying presence to Costello’s often chaotic world.
By December 2003, the couple tied the knot in an intimate ceremony at Elton John’s estate in Surrey, England, surrounded by close friends and legendary figures like Paul McCartney. Their family grew three years later with the birth of twin sons, Dexter and Frank, in December 2006.
Krall’s unwavering support proved invaluable during one of the most challenging periods of Costello’s life—his battle with prostate cancer in 2018. She stood by him through every step, ensuring he had the strength to recover and continue his passion for music.
Now based in Manhattan after relocating from Krall’s native Vancouver, the couple juggles their thriving careers while prioritizing their family. For Costello, his marriage to Krall isn’t just a partnership—it’s the foundation of a life filled with love, mutual respect, and an enduring passion for both music and each other.
