Loretta Devine's Choice: Why No Children? Her Life Today

Prof. Orin Shields Sr. 20 May 2025

Does defining womanhood necessarily include motherhood? For Loretta Devine, the answer is a resounding no, and her life stands as a testament to the power and fulfillment of that choice.

Loretta Devine, a name synonymous with talent and versatility, has graced both the silver screen and television sets for decades. An accomplished American actress, singer, and dancer, her impressive resume includes iconic roles in films like "Waiting to Exhale" and "The Preacher's Wife," as well as the beloved television series "Grey's Anatomy." Her contributions to the entertainment industry have been widely recognized, earning her a Golden Globe Award and two Primetime Emmy Awards, among numerous other accolades.

Since 2001, Devine has shared her life with Glenn Marshall, her husband. Their union is a partnership built on love and mutual respect, a bond that thrives independently of parental responsibilities, because they share decision not to have children.

In a candid interview with Essence magazine, Devine shed light on her perspective regarding motherhood. "I never had a burning desire to have children," she confessed. "I always thought I would adopt, but I never got around to it." Her words reflect a thoughtful consideration of family planning, highlighting a path chosen consciously rather than by default.

While motherhood may not be her personal calling, Devine's heart extends to children in need. She is a passionate advocate for adoption, lending her support and voice to organizations such as the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute. Her dedication to this cause underscores her belief that every child deserves a loving and supportive home.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Loretta Devine
Date of Birth	August 21, 1949
Place of Birth	Houston, Texas, USA
Occupation	Actress, Singer, Dancer
Years Active	1981present
Spouse	Glenn Marshall (m. 2001)
Notable Awards	Golden Globe Award, Primetime Emmy Awards (2)
Website	lorettadevine.com

Loretta Devine has no children. This fact, while seemingly simple, opens a window into a life defined by personal choice, professional dedication, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Her narrative challenges conventional expectations and celebrates the diverse ways in which women can achieve fulfillment.

Devine's journey is a testament to the fact that a woman's worth is not contingent upon motherhood. Her contributions to the arts, her unwavering support for adoption, and her inspiring personal story all contribute to a legacy that extends far beyond the realm of parenting.

No children: Loretta Devine has made the deliberate decision not to have children, neither biological nor adopted. This choice has allowed her to dedicate herself wholeheartedly to her career and other personal passions.
Decision not to have children: Devine has openly expressed that she never harbored a strong desire to become a mother. This self-awareness has guided her life choices, enabling her to pursue opportunities and experiences that align with her personal values.
Adoption advocacy: While not a mother herself, Devine is a fervent supporter of adoption. Her work with organizations promoting adoption reflects her deep-seated belief that every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment.
Personal fulfillment: Devine has cultivated a rich and fulfilling life through her successful career, her loving relationship with her husband, and her commitment to various charitable causes. Her experiences demonstrate that happiness and purpose can be found in a multitude of ways, independent of parenthood.
Societal expectations: Devine's decision not to have children challenges the traditional societal expectations placed upon women. Her story encourages a broader understanding and acceptance of diverse life choices, particularly those that deviate from conventional norms.
Inspiring others: By openly sharing her experiences, Devine inspires other women to thoughtfully consider their own family planning decisions. She provides a powerful example of a woman who has forged her own path, unburdened by societal pressures.
Diversity of family structures: Devine's life exemplifies the diversity of family structures and the validity of choosing a path that resonates with the individual. Her story broadens the definition of "family" and acknowledges the myriad ways in which love and support can be expressed.

Devine's story isn't just about the absence of children; it's about the presence of a life lived fully and intentionally. Her accomplishments, her passions, and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world speak volumes about the richness and complexity of a life lived on one's own terms.

Loretta Devine's choice regarding motherhood is deeply personal, a decision that has profoundly shaped her trajectory and allowed her to channel her energies into other fulfilling aspects of her life. It is a choice deserving of respect and understanding, regardless of individual perspectives on family planning.

Personal fulfillment: Devine has discovered immense satisfaction in her career and in the meaningful relationships she has cultivated. Her success as an actress, singer, and dancer is a testament to her dedication and talent, while her advocacy for adoption showcases her compassionate spirit.
Societal expectations: Devine's path challenges the often-narrow societal expectations placed upon women. She has demonstrated that a woman's worth is not determined by her reproductive choices and that happiness can be found in pursuing alternative paths.
Diversity of family structures: Devine's life highlights the beautiful diversity of family structures that exist in the world. Her story affirms that families can take many forms and that love, support, and connection are the essential ingredients.
Inspiring others: Devine's narrative serves as an inspiration to others, particularly those grappling with their own family planning decisions. She empowers individuals to embrace their authentic selves and to make choices that align with their personal values, regardless of external pressures.

Her life is a powerful reminder that fulfillment is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It is a unique and personal journey that should be guided by individual desires and values, not by societal pressures or expectations.

The actress's choice not to have children has, in many ways, propelled her to become a champion for children in need. Her advocacy for adoption stems from a deep-seated belief that every child deserves a loving and supportive home, regardless of their circumstances.

Devine has actively partnered with organizations like the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, lending her platform to raise awareness and promote the cause of adoption. Her involvement extends beyond mere endorsement; she is a vocal advocate, using her influence to encourage others to consider adoption and to support adoptive families.

The link between Devine's advocacy and her personal choice is undeniable. While she may not have experienced motherhood firsthand, her connection to children is palpable. Her desire to make a difference in their lives is a driving force behind her work, transforming her personal decision into a powerful act of service.

Her story is a beacon of hope, illustrating that one person can create a ripple effect of positive change in the world. By supporting adoption, Devine is not only helping to find loving homes for children in need but also challenging conventional notions of family and motherhood.

Loretta Devine's career has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her talent and dedication have propelled her to the pinnacle of success in the entertainment industry, allowing her to explore a wide range of roles and express her creativity in diverse ways.

Career success: Devine's impressive career spans decades, encompassing numerous critically acclaimed films, television series, and stage productions. Her performances have earned her widespread recognition and numerous accolades, solidifying her status as a respected and admired figure in the entertainment world.
Relationships: Beyond her professional achievements, Devine cherishes the relationships in her life, particularly her marriage to Glenn Marshall. Their enduring bond provides her with unwavering support and companionship, contributing to her overall well-being and happiness.
Personal interests: Devine finds joy and enrichment in pursuing her personal interests, which include spending quality time with loved ones, exploring new destinations through travel, and immersing herself in the world of literature. These activities provide her with a sense of balance and perspective, allowing her to recharge and reconnect with her passions.

Her journey is a testament to the fact that personal fulfillment can be found in a multitude of ways, beyond the confines of traditional expectations. Devine's story encourages others to embrace their passions, cultivate meaningful relationships, and create a life that reflects their authentic selves.

Loretta Devine's decision to forgo motherhood has undoubtedly challenged prevailing societal expectations surrounding women's roles. In many cultures, motherhood remains a central tenet of female identity, and women who choose not to have children often face scrutiny and judgment.

Devine's life serves as a powerful counter-narrative, demonstrating that women can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives without conforming to traditional expectations. Her success in her career, her commitment to her marriage, and her dedication to charitable causes all contribute to a rich and multifaceted existence.

Her decision underscores the importance of individual autonomy and the right of women to make choices about their bodies and their lives without external pressure. Devine's story is an inspiration to women who are contemplating their own family planning decisions, encouraging them to prioritize their personal values and to create a life that aligns with their authentic selves.

By openly defying societal norms, Devine has paved the way for greater acceptance and understanding of diverse life choices. Her story is a catalyst for conversations about women's roles and the multifaceted nature of happiness and fulfillment.

Loretta Devine's narrative has resonated deeply with many individuals, inspiring them to make informed and empowered choices about their own family planning. Her story is a powerful reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to life and that happiness can be found in a multitude of ways.

Personal fulfillment: Devine's life showcases the potential for personal fulfillment beyond the realm of parenthood. Her achievements in her career, her strong relationships, and her commitment to her passions demonstrate that happiness can be cultivated through diverse avenues.
Diversity of family structures: Devine's story highlights the diversity of family structures that exist in the world. Her life exemplifies that families can take many forms and that love, support, and connection are the defining characteristics, regardless of the presence of children.
Societal expectations: Devine's narrative challenges traditional societal expectations surrounding women's roles, encouraging individuals to question conventional norms and to prioritize their personal values when making life decisions.
Making informed decisions: Devine's experiences provide valuable insights for those contemplating their own family planning. Her story encourages individuals to weigh the challenges and rewards of both parenthood and childfree living, empowering them to make choices that are aligned with their personal goals and aspirations.

Her influence extends beyond her personal choices, as she actively uses her platform to advocate for causes she believes in, further inspiring others to make a positive impact on the world.

Loretta Devine's life is a testament to the beauty and validity of diverse family structures. Her personal choices have allowed her to pursue her passions, achieve professional success, and make a significant impact on the world. Her story challenges the traditional notion that having children is a prerequisite for a fulfilling life and celebrates the myriad ways in which individuals can create meaningful connections and contribute to society.

In many cultures, there is a strong cultural emphasis on traditional families, and that's not a bad thing. However, Devine's story demonstrates that families can take many forms and that love, support, and commitment are the essential ingredients, regardless of the presence of children.

Her advocacy for adoption further underscores her belief that every child deserves a loving home, regardless of their biological connection to their parents. Devine's life is a celebration of the diverse ways in which individuals can create families and build meaningful relationships.

Her story is a powerful reminder that we should all be free to make choices about our own lives, without feeling pressured to conform to societal expectations. Devine's life is a testament to the fact that happiness and fulfillment can be found in many different ways, and that the most important thing is to live a life that is true to oneself.

Loretta Devine's journey prompts important conversations about the choices women make and their consequences. Here are some frequently asked questions:

Loretta Devine is an American actress, singer, and dancer who has appeared in numerous films and television shows. She has received several awards and nominations for her work, including a Golden Globe Award and two Emmy Awards. Devine has been married to Glenn Marshall since 2001, and the couple does not have any children.

Devine's decision not to have children is a personal one that has shaped her life and career. It is a choice that reflects her values and priorities, and it has allowed her to focus on her work and other personal pursuits.

Question 1: Why did Loretta Devine decide not to have children?

Answer: Devine has stated that she never had a strong desire to have children. She has also said that she feels fulfilled by her career and relationships outside of having children.

Question 2: Does Loretta Devine regret her decision not to have children?

Answer: Devine has never publicly expressed any regrets about her decision not to have children. She has said that she is happy with her life and the choices she has made.

Question 3: Is it selfish for a woman to choose not to have children?

Answer: No, it is not selfish for a woman to choose not to have children. Having children is a personal decision, and each woman should make the choice that is right for her.

Question 4: Is it possible to have a happy and fulfilling life without having children?

Answer: Yes, it is possible to have a happy and fulfilling life without having children. There are many different ways to find happiness and fulfillment in life, and having children is not the only way.

Question 5: What are some of the benefits of not having children?

Answer: Some of the benefits of not having children include having more time and money to pursue personal interests, being able to focus on career goals, and having more freedom to travel and explore the world.

Question 6: What are some of the challenges of not having children?

Answer: Some of the challenges of not having children include not having the experience of raising a child, missing out on the joy of being a grandparent, and potentially feeling isolated from friends and family who have children.

Summary: Loretta Devine's decision not to have children is a personal one that has shaped her life and career. It is a choice that reflects her values and priorities, and it has allowed her to focus on her work and other personal pursuits. There are many different ways to find happiness and fulfillment in life, and having children is not the only way.

Transition to the next article section: Loretta Devine's decision not to have children is a reminder that we should all be free to make choices about our own lives, and that we should not be pressured to conform to societal expectations.

Loretta Devine's decision to remain child-free is a testament to the power of individual choice and the diverse paths that women can take to lead fulfilling lives. Her story challenges societal norms, celebrates personal fulfillment, and inspires others to make informed decisions about their own family planning. Devine's life is a reminder that there is no one right way to live and that happiness can be found in many different forms.

The diversity of family structures is a reflection of the diversity of human experience. There is no one right way to live, and there is no one right way to have a family. Devine's story is a reminder that we should all be supportive of the choices that others make, even if they are different from our own.