Who Is Phyllis Minkoff? Meet Maury Povich’s First Wife and Her Amazing Story

You’ve probably heard of Maury Povich, the talk show legend known for his dramatic TV moments and paternity test reveals. But before all that fame, there was a woman by his side — Phyllis Minkoff.

Phyllis isn’t just someone from Maury’s past. She built her own life, raised a beautiful family, worked in public relations, and quietly supported causes she believed in. Her life story is full of love, change, strength, and purpose.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Phyllis Minkoff’s full story — from her early life and marriage to Maury Povich, to her career, children, and peaceful life today. It’s a story worth telling.

Phyllis Minkoff Quick Bio

Phyllis Minkoff’s Early Life and Family in Washington, D.C.

Phyllis Minkoff was born on February 15, 1941, in Washington, D.C. She grew up in a loving Jewish-American home. Her father, Hyman Joseph Minkoff, ran a local liquor store called Acme Liquors. Her mother, Ida Minkoff, was a kind and supportive homemaker.

Phyllis wasn’t an only child. She had a brother named Larry Minkoff. The two siblings spent their early years in D.C., during a time when the world was changing fast. It was a simple life, but one filled with strong values, family love, and early lessons that would shape who Phyllis became.

What Was Phyllis Minkoff Like Growing Up?

Even as a young girl, Phyllis showed signs of being smart, strong, and thoughtful. People around her said she cared about others, stood up for what she believed in, and didn’t need to be the center of attention.

We don’t know a lot about the schools she went to, but it’s clear she had a curious mind and a good heart. She wasn’t someone who chased fame. She was the kind of person who made things happen behind the scenes — and that would become a big part of her life later on.

Phyllis Minkoff’s Career in Communications and PR

As she grew older, Phyllis Minkoff built a career in communications and public relations. She didn’t shout about her success, but she made a difference in quiet, steady ways. Whether she worked with private clients or inside companies, she was known for her calm, smart, and respectful approach.

She helped people shape their message, solve problems, and connect with others. In a time when many women were expected to stay home, Phyllis stepped into the professional world with confidence. She proved that you can do great work — even if you’re not in the spotlight.

Her Passion for Politics and Women’s Rights

Phyllis didn’t just work in PR. She also cared deeply about politics and social causes. She wasn’t afraid to share her views and support leaders who wanted to make the world better.

In 2016, she supported Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign. She also believed in the messages of people like Bernie Sanders and Joe Kennedy III. Phyllis was proud to be part of the Women’s Liberation Front, a group that speaks up for women’s rights and fairness.

She didn’t just talk about change — she helped make it happen.

Her Marriage to Maury Povich

In 1962, Phyllis married Maurice Richard Povich, the man we now know as Maury Povich. At that time, Maury wasn’t a TV star yet. He was working his way up as a journalist in Washington, D.C.

Phyllis stood by him during his early career. She believed in him and helped build a home while he chased his dream in the media world. They were a strong couple, living an ordinary life during a time when Maury was still finding his place in television.

Their marriage lasted 17 years, and during that time, they raised a family and shared a life full of ups and downs — like any couple trying to balance work and family.

Phyllis Minkoff and Maury Povich’s Divorce Story

In 1979, after nearly two decades together, Phyllis and Maury divorced. They never talked much about the reason. It seemed like their lives were just heading in different directions.

Maury was becoming more and more famous. He would soon become a big name in TV with shows like A Current Affair and later Maury. Phyllis, on the other hand, seemed to want a quieter, more grounded life.

Some people were surprised when Phyllis remarried just a year later, but there was no drama in public. Both of them moved on with respect. And Phyllis’s next chapter turned out to be just as meaningful.

Phyllis Minkoff’s Second Marriage to Phillip Baskin

In 1980, Phyllis married Phillip Baskin, a respected attorney and city councilman in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He wasn’t a celebrity, but he made a real difference in his community.

Together, Phyllis and Phillip built a peaceful life in Greater Pittsburgh. They focused on family, community service, and simply being there for each other. Their marriage lasted 25 years, until Phillip sadly passed away in 2005 from Alzheimer’s disease.

Through that long journey — from love to loss — Phyllis stayed strong. She showed the same quiet courage she had shown all her life.

Phyllis Minkoff’s Four Daughters and Family Life

Phyllis Minkoff is the proud mother of four daughters — two from each of her marriages.

With Maury Povich, she had:

• Susan Anne Povich, who became a lawyer and later started her own food business. She opened the Red Hook Lobster Pound, a popular seafood spot.

• Amy Joyce Povich, who followed a creative path and became an actress. She also married David Agus, a well-known doctor and author.

With Phillip Baskin, she had:

• Shoshana Nudel

• Janice Gondelman

Shoshana and Janice prefer to stay private, just like their mother. Not much is known about their careers or public lives. But it’s clear that Phyllis raised all four daughters with care, strong values, and love.

She wasn’t just a mother — she was a guide, a support system, and a steady presence in their lives.

Where Is Phyllis Minkoff Now? Her Quiet Life Today

Today, Phyllis Minkoff lives a calm and private life in Greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She doesn’t appear in the news. She doesn’t use social media. And she doesn’t chase the spotlight.

But those who know her say she’s kind, warm, and thoughtful. She still enjoys spending time with her family and being part of her local community.

After going through a lot — love, divorce, motherhood, loss — Phyllis chose peace. She lives each day simply, surrounded by the people and causes she cares about.

Phyllis Minkoff’s Net Worth and How She Built It

Phyllis never became a TV star or media personality like her ex-husband. But she built a strong career in public relations and communications — and she did it with quiet focus.

As of 2025, Phyllis Minkoff’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. She earned this through steady work, smart choices, and living simply. She didn’t need fame or flash to build a life she was proud of.

Her ex-husband, Maury Povich, is worth much more — around $80 million. But Phyllis never tried to match that. She followed her own path, and that’s what made her story so special.

Is Phyllis Still in Touch with Maury Povich?

After their divorce, Phyllis and Maury went their separate ways. There’s no public record showing that they stayed close or stayed in touch.

Maury married Connie Chung in 1984. She’s a famous journalist, and together they adopted a son named Matthew Jay Povich in 1995. They became a media power couple.

Phyllis, on the other hand, built a quiet family life in Pittsburgh with her second husband, Phillip Baskin. She focused on her children and stayed far from the spotlight.

While their lives were very different, both seemed to find peace in their own way.

What Makes Phyllis Minkoff’s Story So Special?

So, why does Phyllis Minkoff’s story matter?

Because it reminds us that you don’t need to be famous to live a meaningful life.

She supported her husband when he was just starting out. She built a career in a male-dominated field. She raised four daughters. She cared deeply about women’s rights, politics, and helping others. And she did all of this without needing attention or praise.

Phyllis Minkoff showed the world that real strength is quiet. Real success doesn’t always come with TV cameras or magazine covers. Sometimes, it comes with family, hard work, and staying true to your values.

Final Thoughts

Phyllis Minkoff may be known to some people only as Maury Povich’s first wife, but her story goes far beyond that title.

She was a professional woman, a mother, a wife, and an activist. She lived through love, divorce, new beginnings, and personal loss — and stayed strong through it all.

She gave her best to the people she loved and the causes she believed in. And even though she stepped away from the public eye, her quiet strength still shines.

Phyllis’s life is a reminder that some of the most powerful stories are the ones you don’t always hear on TV.

(FAQs)

How old is Phyllis Minkoff now?

She is 84 years old in 2025. Phyllis was born on February 15, 1941. Many people are surprised she is still living a calm and private life today.

What is Phyllis Minkoff’s net worth?

Her net worth is about $1 million. She made her money by working for many years in public relations and communication.

What did Phyllis Minkoff look like when she was young?

When she was younger, Phyllis had a soft and beautiful look. She was smart, calm, and carried herself with quiet confidence.

How many children does Phyllis Minkoff have?

Phyllis has four daughters. Two with her first husband Maury Povich (Susan and Amy), and two with her second husband Phillip Baskin (Shoshana and Janice).

Why did Phyllis Minkoff and Maury Povich get divorced?

They divorced in 1979 after 17 years. They never gave a reason, but some people think they grew apart. Phyllis married again just months later, which surprised many.

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