Eartha Kitt’s ex-husband Karen McDougal Biography: Children, Parents, Siblings, Age, Net Worth, Wife, Ethnicity, Death

---

John William McDonald was a prominent American businessman and real estate investor best known for his marriage to legendary singer, actress, and activist Eartha Kitt.

Their union, which began in the 1960s, brought McDonald’s into the public eye during a time when interracial relationships faced societal challenges.

Although their marriage was short-lived, McDonald’s role as a husband and father left a lasting impression on his family’s story.

Profile

•   Full name: John William McDonald  
•   Date of birth: April 12, 1923  
•   Age (as of 2005): 82 years (deceased)  
•   Gender: Male  
•   Place of birth: Los Angeles, California, USA  
•   Nationality: American  
•   Profession: Businessman, real estate investor, accountant  
•   Height: 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm)  
•   Parents: N/A  
•   Siblings: N/A  
•   Spouse: Eartha Kitt (married June 6, 1960; divorced 1965)  
•   Children: Kitt McDonald (later known as Kitt Shapiro)  
•   Relationship status: Divorced at the time of death  
•   Religion: Christianity  
•   Ethnicity: White, with German and Irish heritage  
•   Net worth: $200k

Early Life and Education

John William McDonald was born in Los Angeles, California, on April 12, 1923. Raised in a middle-class family, McDonald had a typical upbringing in Los Angeles County.

While little is known about his early education, his heritage reflected German and Irish ancestry. McDonald later pursued a business career, establishing himself as a successful accountant and real estate investor.

McDonald also served in the Korean War, where he sustained severe injuries from a grenade explosion. His military service was marked by bravery, but the physical and emotional toll led to lasting challenges, including dependence on medication for pain management.

Personal Life

John William McDonald married Eartha Kitt on June 6, 1960, in an intimate ceremony attended by close family and friends. Their marriage, though loving at times, was fraught with challenges.

The couple welcomed their only child, Kitt McDonald, on November 26, 1961. Kitt, later known as Kitt Shapiro, became a successful businesswoman and advocate for her mother’s legacy.

Despite their affection for one another, McDonald and Kitt faced mounting difficulties. Eartha’s demanding career often kept her away from home, while McDonald grappled with personal struggles, including allegations of substance dependency stemming from his military injuries.

The couple separated in 1963, with Kitt citing mental cruelty as the primary reason for their divorce, which was finalized in 1965. McDonald continued to play an active role in his daughter’s life, ensuring her upbringing was stable and supportive.

Career

John William McDonald built a successful accountant and real estate investor career. His professional expertise allowed him to maintain financial stability, though he remained largely out of the public eye.

During his marriage to Eartha Kitt, McDonald balanced his career while navigating the unique pressures of being connected to a high-profile entertainer.

After their divorce, McDonald focused on his business ventures and maintained a low-profile lifestyle. His work in real estate helped sustain his family and provided financial security for his daughter’s education and future endeavors.

Net Worth

John William McDonald’s net worth at the time of his death was around $200k.

Death

John William McDonald died on May 12, 2005, in Los Angeles, California, at 82. The cause of his death remains undisclosed, but his legacy endures through his family, particularly his daughter, Kitt Shapiro.

Social Media

•   N/A

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---