Alvin Martin is a name closely tied to Whoopi Goldberg, but few truly know his story beyond their marriage. Born on July 29, 1958, in Merseyside, England, Alvin’s early life remains relatively private. His journey, however, is significant, especially due to his role as a drug counselor, a profession that ultimately led him to meet and support Whoopi Goldberg during her struggles with addiction. Their relationship began professionally but grew deeper, leading to a marriage that would forever change both of their lives. In this article, we will explore the life of Alvin Martin, the man behind Whoopi Goldberg’s early years, his career as a drug counselor, and how he has quietly shaped his legacy away from the public spotlight
Quick Bio:
| Full Name | Alvin Louise Martin |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 29, 1958 |
| Age | 67 years old (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Merseyside, England |
| Profession | Drug Counselor |
| Spouse | Whoopi Goldberg (married 1973–1979) |
| Children | Alexandrea “Alex” Martin |
| Grandchildren | Amarah Skye Dean, Jerzey Dean, Mason Dean |
| Height | 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | White |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Social Media | Not active on social media |
Meeting Whoopi Goldberg
In the early 1970s, Alvin Martin was working as a drug counselor, and it was through this role that he first met Whoopi Goldberg. At the time, Goldberg was battling addiction, and Alvin’s support played a crucial role in her recovery. Their connection went beyond a professional one, with Alvin offering emotional support, which helped lay the foundation for a deeper relationship. Over time, their bond became personal, and they eventually married in 1973.

Marriage to Whoopi Goldberg
Alvin and Whoopi’s marriage in 1973 was one that balanced Whoopi’s rising fame with Alvin’s preference for a quieter life. While Whoopi began her ascent to stardom, Alvin remained out of the public eye, choosing to focus on his career and family. The couple had one child together, Alexandrea Martin, born in 1973. Though their marriage ended in 1979, Alvin’s role as a supportive partner and father was a significant part of their shared journey, especially during Whoopi’s early years in the spotlight.
Family Life: Daughter Alexandrea and Grandchildren
Alvin’s family life remained central to who he was. He and Whoopi raised Alexandrea Martin, who would follow in her mother’s footsteps and establish herself in Hollywood as an actress and producer. Alvin also embraced his role as a grandfather to Amarah Skye Dean, Jerzey Dean, and Mason Dean, his grandchildren, maintaining a close-knit family despite his relatively private existence. Though he kept out of the media’s gaze, Alvin remained deeply committed to his family and their well-being, away from the public eye.

Alvin’s Career: A Drug Counselor and Private Life
Alvin Martin’s career as a drug counselor defined much of his life. His work, which he continued after his divorce from Whoopi, was dedicated to helping others recover from addiction. This career choice demonstrated his commitment to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Unlike many in the public eye, Alvin stayed focused on his work and his private life. He never sought fame, preferring instead to keep a low profile and live a life dedicated to helping others while remaining out of the media’s spotlight.
Life After Whoopi: Keeping a Low Profile
After his divorce from Whoopi Goldberg in 1979, Alvin Martin chose to live a quiet, private life. While Whoopi continued her journey toward becoming one of the most recognized faces in Hollywood, Alvin remained out of the spotlight, avoiding the media attention that often comes with being connected to such a famous person. Alvin never sought public engagements or fame; instead, he focused on his counseling career and stayed close to his family. This decision to remain private allowed him to maintain the life he valued, away from the constant scrutiny that came with fame.

The Legacy of Alvin Martin
Though Alvin Martin is not widely known for his own achievements, his legacy is clear. His influence on Whoopi Goldberg’s early life was crucial, helping her overcome addiction and supporting her during her formative years. In addition, his professional career as a drug counselor impacted many lives. Alvin’s decision to live a quiet life and focus on his family and career, rather than seeking fame, speaks volumes about his character and values. His legacy is one of service, commitment, and family, remaining strong even though he stayed out of the media’s limelight.
Conclusion
Alvin Martin’s life story, though often overshadowed by Whoopi Goldberg’s fame, is a compelling narrative of dedication, privacy, and family. His early support of Goldberg during her struggles with addiction and his quiet life afterward reflect a man who valued substance over spectacle. Alvin’s role as a father and grandfather, his commitment to his career as a drug counselor, and his choice to live outside the public eye all contribute to his enduring legacy. His story reminds us that it is not the fame that defines success but the values we hold and the difference we make in the lives of others.
FAQs:
Who is Alvin Martin?
Alvin Martin is a former drug counselor and the ex-husband of actress Whoopi Goldberg. He is best known for his role in supporting Goldberg during her struggles with addiction in the early 1970s, leading to their marriage in 1973. Alvin chose to live a private life, far from the media spotlight, after their divorce in 1979.
How many children does Alvin Martin have?
Alvin Martin has one daughter, Alexandrea “Alex” Martin, born in 1973. She is an actress and producer who has had a career in Hollywood, following in the footsteps of her mother, Whoopi Goldberg.
What is Alvin Martin profession?
Alvin Martin is a trained drug counselor. His work in addiction recovery is a significant part of his life, and he helped many individuals overcome their struggles. He chose to keep his professional life private, focusing on helping others without seeking public attention.
Why did Alvin Martin stay out of the public eye?
After his divorce from Whoopi Goldberg in 1979, Alvin Martin chose to stay out of the public eye to maintain his privacy. Unlike his ex-wife, Whoopi, who continued her rise to fame, Alvin preferred to focus on his career and family away from the spotlight, avoiding media scrutiny.
What is Alvin Martin legacy?
Alvin Martin’s legacy lies in his support of Whoopi Goldberg during her early years and his work as a drug counselor. His commitment to his family, his quiet life, and his professional achievements in helping others made a lasting impact, even though he chose to live outside the media’s gaze.
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