Wayne Gretzky and Janet Jones first crossed paths in 1981 when Gretzky was a judge on the TV dance competition Dance Fever.
Wayne Gretzky’s impact on ice hockey is nothing short of legendary. Nicknamed “The Great One,” Gretzky dominated the NHL for two decades, from 1979 to 1999, cementing his legacy as the greatest hockey player ever.
His extraordinary career began with the Edmonton Oilers, where he led the team to four Stanley Cup championships.
Gretzky’s prowess on the ice was unmatched; he remains the NHL’s all-time leader in goals, assists, and points.
His intelligence and ability to read the game compensated for his relatively modest size and strength, making him nearly impossible to defend against.
He revolutionized the sport with his innovative playing style, particularly his signature move of setting up plays from behind the opponent’s net, an area that became known as “Gretzky’s office.”
Wayne Gretzky and His Wife Janet Share Over Three Decades of Love and Family Values
While Wayne Gretzky’s professional achievements are well-documented, his personal life has been equally blessed, particularly through his marriage to Janet Jones.
Their love story began in 1981 when they first met on the set of “Dance Fever” – Gretzky was a celebrity judge, and Jones was a talented dancer.
However, their romantic connection didn’t spark until 1987, when they crossed paths at a Los Angeles Lakers game.
Their wedding in July 1988 was a grand affair in Edmonton, described by CBC as a “wedding of royal proportions,” with thousands of well-wishers lining the streets to celebrate the union of Canada’s hockey hero and his American bride.
Their shared love for sports and similar life values quickly drew them together.
Janet Marie Jones was born on January 10, 1961, in St. Louis, Missouri, to parents Robert Jones and Jean Jones.
She had already established herself as an actress and model when she met Gretzky.
Her career included notable roles in films like “The Flamingo Kid” and “A Chorus Line.” Despite their individual successes, both prioritized family values above all else.
The Gretzky family soon grew to include five children: Paulina (1988), Ty (1990), Trevor (1992), Tristan (2000), and Emma (2003).
Each child has pursued their own path: Paulina became a model, Trevor ventured into baseball and acting, and their other children have shown prowess in various sports, including golf and tennis.
Janet has been the family’s cornerstone, taking on the role of disciplinarian while Wayne focused on his hockey career.
Today, over three decades since their wedding, Wayne and Janet continue to share their passion for sports and family.
They’ve embraced grandparenthood, with Janet taking on the loving moniker “Honey” to her grandchildren.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- During the 1981-82 season, Gretzky achieved what seemed impossible: scoring 50 goals in just 39 games, shattering Maurice “Rocket” Richard’s long-standing record of 50 goals in 50 games.
- In recognition of his contributions to Canada, Gretzky was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1984.
