Who Is Eric Maurice? The Private Life of Sheryl Lee Ralph’s First Husband

Eric Maurice may not be a famous name in Hollywood, but he once played a very important role in the life of Emmy-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph. While she shines on the red carpet and on TV screens in Abbott Elementary, Eric has chosen a much quieter path. He prefers to live away from the spotlight, focusing on business, family, and his own private world.

But people are still curious. Who is Eric Maurice? Where is he now? What kind of man was once married to one of Hollywood’s most loved stars? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Eric Maurice’s story—his early life, marriage to Sheryl Lee Ralph, their kids, his business career, and what he’s doing today. If you’ve ever wondered about the man behind the scenes, this article will help you get to know him better.

Eric Maurice Quick Bio

Who Is Eric Maurice?

Eric Maurice is a French-Ivorian businessman who became known to the public after marrying actress Sheryl Lee Ralph in the 1990s. While she was building her acting career, he was building a life in the business world. Even after they went their separate ways, people still remember him because of their long marriage and the beautiful family they created.

He has never been one to chase fame. You won’t see him on talk shows or in celebrity magazines. But his quiet presence has still made a strong impact—especially in the lives of his children, who often share kind words about their dad.

Eric Maurice’s Early Life and Background

Eric Maurice was born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, a busy and vibrant city on the coast of West Africa. Growing up there gave him a strong connection to culture, tradition, and family values. His father was African-American, and his mother was American, so Eric grew up in a home filled with different backgrounds and ideas.

This mix of cultures helped shape how he sees the world. He learned early how to move between different environments and connect with people from many walks of life. These experiences likely helped him later as a businessman who traveled and worked in different countries.

Some sources say he may have been born in Paris, but most agree that Abidjan is his true birthplace. Either way, his roots in West Africa are a big part of who he is.

Eric Maurice Nationality, Age, and Ethnicity

Eric Maurice has a very interesting background. He is French and Ivorian, with African-American and American family roots. That’s a rich and beautiful mix. It also explains his ability to move easily between cities like Paris, Los Angeles, and New York.

His exact birthdate hasn’t been shared publicly, but most people believe he was born between 1954 and 1959, which makes him around 66 to 72 years old in 2026. That mystery around his age adds to the quiet, private way he has always lived his life.

Even though he stays out of the spotlight, Eric Maurice’s mixed background and dual nationality give him a global identity that’s reflected in everything he does—from the way he travels to the way he runs his business.

Eric Maurice Career and Business Life

Eric Maurice is not just known as Sheryl Lee Ralph’s former husband. He is also a successful entrepreneur. He co-founded a company called 1515 Design and Manufacturing, based in Inglewood, California. This company focuses on importing high-quality rotisserie equipment from Europe, especially from a trusted brand called Doregrill.

Eric started this business with a partner, Francis Delpech, back in 2011. They brought together their years of experience in food design and equipment. Together, they built a company that helps restaurants and stores serve food that looks and tastes great.

While Eric doesn’t post much about his business online, the success of 1515 Design shows that he takes his work seriously. He’s not just running a business—he’s helping others create better experiences for their customers, too.

What Is Eric Maurice’s Net Worth?

So, how rich is Eric Maurice? While there’s no official number, people believe he is doing very well. His business is strong, and his lifestyle shows comfort and success. He enjoys traveling, fine food, fashion, and time with his family.

For comparison, his former wife Sheryl Lee Ralph has a net worth of around $5 million as of 2026. Eric may not be a public figure like her, but his steady business career has likely brought him similar financial stability.

What’s clear is that Eric doesn’t chase money or fame. He focuses on doing what he loves and taking care of his loved ones—and that’s a different kind of wealth.

How Eric Maurice Met Sheryl Lee Ralph

Their love story started in a surprising way. On her birthday, Sheryl Lee Ralph realized she was the only person at the party without a partner. That moment made her tie a little string around her finger as a promise to stay focused on her own goals. But life had other plans.

Soon after, she met Eric Maurice. He was charming, respectful, and kind. They went on a few dates, and before long, he surprised her with a diamond ring and a proposal. She said yes, and in 1990, they were married.

Their love was real, and their connection strong. Together, they seemed like a perfect match—her life in Hollywood and his world in business balancing each other out.

Eric Maurice and Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Marriage

For over a decade, Eric Maurice and Sheryl Lee Ralph shared a life together. They attended events side-by-side and built a home where love, respect, and growth were central. During their marriage, they welcomed two children—Etienne in 1992 and Ivy Coco in 1995.

The couple appeared at major public events like the NAACP Image Awards and the Hollywood Christmas Parade, always looking happy and supportive of one another. Eric never tried to take the spotlight. Instead, he stood proudly by his wife, letting her shine while he remained calm and steady in the background.

Their home was filled with culture, learning, and love. It was the kind of environment that helped their children grow into the smart, strong adults they are today.

Their Painful Divorce and Public Struggles

After more than ten years of marriage, Eric Maurice and Sheryl Lee Ralph decided to separate in 2000, with their divorce finalized in 2001. The end of their marriage was not easy. In fact, Sheryl later described it as one of the most painful times in her life. She said it felt like “ripping the skin off of your own body.”

The divorce became even harder when the National Enquirer published a story full of rumors. The tabloid claimed that Sheryl wanted the divorce because she was chasing younger men. It also said she was obsessed with looking young and copying younger stars. Hurt by these lies, Sheryl sued the tabloid for $1 million, calling their article false and damaging.

Even though the marriage ended, Eric Maurice did not become a public figure. He stayed private while his ex-wife focused on healing and raising their children. Their split was emotional, but both parents kept their focus on family.

Eric Maurice’s Role as a Father

While Eric Maurice stayed out of the spotlight, he never stepped away from being a dad. He and Sheryl Lee Ralph raised two amazing children — Etienne Maurice and Ivy-Victoria Maurice, also known as Ivy Coco.

Eric remained a strong and loving father after the divorce. His kids have spoken kindly about him, especially on social media. Ivy once shared that her father always gave her chocolates and roses on Valentine’s Day, setting a high bar for how she expected to be treated. Etienne has also thanked his dad in touching Father’s Day posts.

It’s clear that even if Eric and Sheryl’s marriage didn’t last, their shared goal of raising good-hearted, successful children did. Eric Maurice may be private, but his role as a proud and present father shines through.

Where Is Eric Maurice Now?

Today, Eric Maurice lives a very quiet life. While his former wife continues to shine on TV and at award shows, Eric prefers peace and privacy. He is based between Los Angeles, New York, and Paris, traveling often and enjoying the simple joys of life.

On his private Instagram, Eric describes himself as a Euro-African-American entrepreneur, world traveler, and food and fashion lover. He shares his love for menswear, lifestyle, and gourmet meals—but only with a small circle.

Even though you won’t see him in magazines or doing interviews, he seems to live a full and peaceful life, built around family, work, and personal interests.

Eric Maurice’s Private Life After Divorce

Since the divorce, Eric Maurice has not remarried—at least not publicly. He keeps his personal life very private. There are no public records of him dating or being in a new relationship.

Meanwhile, Sheryl Lee Ralph remarried in 2005 to Senator Vincent Hughes of Pennsylvania. Even so, she and Eric have kept a respectful connection through their children. Sheryl once said that Hughes never tried to replace their father and gave Eric his space in the kids’ lives.

That shows the maturity and respect in how everyone moved forward—especially for the sake of the children.

Why People Are Still Curious About Eric Maurice

It’s now been over two decades since Eric Maurice and Sheryl Lee Ralph ended their marriage, but people are still curious about him. Why? Maybe it’s because he chose to stay out of the spotlight in a world that often pushes people in. Maybe it’s because of how well his children turned out. Or maybe it’s just because we rarely hear from him, and that makes him more mysterious.

Fans of Sheryl Lee Ralph often wonder about the man she once called her husband. As her fame continues to grow, especially with her Emmy win in Abbott Elementary, interest in Eric Maurice has quietly returned. People want to know: Who was by her side all those years ago? And what is his story?

The truth is, Eric Maurice shows that you don’t have to be loud to make a difference. You can live a quiet life, love your children, run your business, and still have a strong and meaningful legacy.

Final Thoughts

Eric Maurice may be best known as Sheryl Lee Ralph’s first husband, but he is so much more than that. He is a proud father, a successful businessman, and a man who lives life on his own terms. Born in Ivory Coast, raised in a rich mix of cultures, and shaped by both struggle and success—Eric’s story is one of quiet strength.

He helped raise two strong, kind, and talented children. He built a business that has lasted for years. And he did all of it without seeking fame or attention. That’s what makes his story special.

In a world full of noise, Eric Maurice chose peace. And that choice tells us more about him than any headline ever could.

(FAQs)

Is Eric Maurice rich today?

Yes, he is! Even though Eric doesn’t show off, he’s made good money from his business. People think he could be worth around $5 million, maybe even more.

Did Eric Maurice ever live in New Orleans?

No, that’s just a rumor. Eric has lived in big cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Paris, but there’s no proof he lived in New Orleans.

How old is Eric Maurice now?

No one knows his exact birthday, but most say he was born between 1954 and 1959. That means he’s around 66 to 72 years old in 2026.

Who are Eric Maurice’s kids?

Eric has two kids with Sheryl Lee Ralph—Etienne and Ivy Coco. They’re both doing great! Etienne runs a nonprofit, and Ivy is a popular fashion stylist and businesswoman.

What is Eric Maurice doing now?

Eric lives a quiet, peaceful life. In 2026, he’s still running his business and enjoying travel, good food, and time with his family. He stays far away from the spotlight.

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