When discussing the life and career of Whoopi Goldberg, one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood and American television, it is common Alvin Martin attention to remain on her professional success and outspoken personality. However, her personal life has also attracted interest over the years, especially her relationship with her first husband, Alvin Martin. While not a celebrity himself, Alvin Martin became a subject of curiosity for many because of his connection to Whoopi Goldberg during the early stages of her career. Unlike most public figures associated with celebrities, chose a life away from the spotlight, which makes him all the more fascinating. This article takes a deep look into the life of Alvin Martin.
Quick Bio
Field | Details |
Full Name | Alvin Martin |
Date of Birth | 1950s (exact date not publicly confirmed) |
Nationality | American |
Known For | Former husband of Whoopi Goldberg and father of Alexandrea Martin |
Marriage | Married Whoopi Goldberg in 1973 |
Divorce | 1979 |
Children | One daughter, Alexandrea “Alex” Martin |
Occupation | Not widely publicized, largely lived a private life |
Public Appearances | Rare, mainly mentioned in connection with Whoopi Goldberg’s biography |
Alvin Martin’s Early Life and Background
One of the most intriguing aspects of Alvin Martin’s story is the lack of detailed information about his early life. Unlike Whoopi Goldberg, who rose to international fame and built a career that placed her in the public eye for decades, Alvin Martin has always lived quietly. Very little is known about his childhood, his family, or his professional endeavors before marrying Goldberg. What is known is that he was an ordinary American man who never actively sought the spotlight. His life took a different trajectory when he met Goldberg during the early 1970s, a period when she was still at the beginning of her career and long before she became a household name.
Marriage to Whoopi Goldberg

Alvin Martin married Whoopi Goldberg in 1973. At the time, Goldberg was still trying to establish herself in the entertainment industry, and the couple led a relatively low-profile life compared to the glitz and glamour that would later surround Goldberg. Their marriage lasted for six years, ending in 1979. Despite their eventual separation, the marriage was significant because it coincided with Goldberg’s formative years, both as an artist and as an individual finding her way in the world. While the details of their relationship remain private, their union has often been described as a youthful marriage, one that reflected Goldberg’s early attempts to balance personal commitments with professional aspirations.
The Role of Fatherhood
Perhaps the most lasting legacy of Alvin Martin’s life is his role as a father. During his marriage to Goldberg, the couple welcomed their daughter, Alexandrea “Alex” Martin, who was born in 1973. Alex would later follow in her mother’s footsteps and pursue a career in acting and film production. While Goldberg’s fame often placed her daughter in the public eye, Alvin Martin remained more reserved, choosing not to seek attention. Nevertheless, his role as Alex’s father connected him permanently to the Goldberg family legacy. Alex has often credited her upbringing as a key part of her identity, and while Whoopi has spoken openly about raising her daughter as a single mother after the divorce.
Life After Divorce

After divorcing Whoopi Goldberg in 1979, Alvin Martin largely faded from public view. Unlike many celebrity ex-spouses who attempt to build careers on the notoriety of their relationships, Martin chose the opposite path. He remained a private figure, allowing Goldberg to shine while he maintained a life outside the headlines. Reports suggest that he never remarried into the public eye, nor did he make appearances seeking attention from Goldberg’s fame. This choice has contributed to the mystery surrounding him. For Goldberg, life after Alvin Martin included two additional marriages, both of which also ended in divorce. She has since made it clear that long-term romantic relationships were not central to her happiness, often stating she prefers her independence.
Whoopi Goldberg’s Reflections on Her Marriages
Over the years, Whoopi Goldberg has been candid about her marriages, including her first one to Alvin Martin. She has often admitted that she was not ideally suited for marriage and that she felt societal pressure to marry rather than following her natural instincts. This perspective gives insight into why her marriage with Martin, though meaningful, did not last. While Goldberg has occasionally referenced her past relationships, she rarely discusses Alvin Martin in detail, a reflection of both his private nature and her own focus on moving forward. Still, the fact that their daughter grew into a successful adult has often been cited as the positive outcome of their union.
The Connection Through Their Daughter, Alexandrea Martin

The strongest connection between Alvin Martin and Whoopi Goldberg continues to be their daughter, Alexandrea. Born the same year they married, Alex has carved out her own path in Hollywood as both an actress and a producer. She has appeared in films and television shows, and in 1994 she was even awarded the title of “Miss Golden Globe.” Her achievements are a testament to the support she received not only from her famous mother but also from the foundation of having a father like Alvin Martin. Even if he was not a public figure, his role in her life shaped her identity and gave her a unique perspective on balancing fame with family.
Why Alvin Martin Remains a Figure of Curiosity
One reason Alvin Martin continues to intrigue people is precisely because he chose not to be in the spotlight. In a time when many people connected to celebrities seek media attention, endorsements, or public careers, Martin’s quiet and private life stands out. Fans of Whoopi Goldberg, curious about her personal history, often stumble upon his name and wonder who he was and what role he played in her life. The mystery surrounding him only increases public interest, making him an unusual but noteworthy figure in the Goldberg story.
Alvin Martin’s Legacy

Although Alvin Martin is not a celebrity in his own right, his legacy is tied to his connection with Whoopi Goldberg and their daughter. His brief marriage to one of the most famous entertainers in the world cemented his place in Hollywood history, even if indirectly. His decision to remain private suggests a man who valued a quieter lifestyle over fame. For many, his story serves as a reminder that not everyone associated with Hollywood seeks the limelight. Instead, Alvin Martin represents the many unsung figures who remain in the background while those around them rise to stardom.
Conclusion: A Life Lived Outside the Spotlight
Alvin Martin may not be a household name, but his role in Whoopi Goldberg’s life is undeniable. As her first husband and the father of her only daughter, he is an important part of her personal history, even if he never sought public recognition. His story is one of quiet resilience, fatherhood, and a refusal to chase the spotlight. While Goldberg went on to become one of the most successful entertainers of her generation, Martin remained in the background, proving that not all connections to fame lead to a life under scrutiny. His story continues to captivate those curious about Goldberg’s life, offering a rare glimpse into the balance between public fame and private existence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alvin Martin
1. Who is Alvin Martin?
- Alvin Martin is best known as the first husband of Whoopi Goldberg and the father of her only daughter, Alexandrea Martin.
2. When was Alvin Martin married to Whoopi Goldberg?
- Alvin Martin married Whoopi Goldberg in 1973. Their marriage lasted until 1979.
3. Does Alvin Martin have children?
- Yes, Alvin Martin and Whoopi Goldberg share one daughter, Alexandrea “Alex” Martin.
4. What is Alvin Martin known for?
- He is primarily known for his marriage to Whoopi Goldberg and his role as the father of Alex Martin. He is not a public figure otherwise.
5. Where is Alvin Martin now?
- Alvin Martin has lived a very private life since his divorce from Goldberg, and little is publicly known about his current whereabouts.