In the recent documentary series now streaming on Paramount+ titled “Willie Nelson & Family,” the legendary musician takes a stroll down memory lane, recounting the highs and lows of his incredible nine-decade journey. Paramount+ treated fans to this insightful documentary on December 21, skillfully directed and produced by the Emmy and Grammy award-winning duo Thom Zimny and Oren Moverman. Notably, the project also had the touch of executive producer Taylor Sheridan.
This engaging four-part docuseries opens the door to the personal side of Willie Nelson‘s life, offering glimpses into his family dynamics and relationships with loved ones, including his children and late sister, Bobbie. Viewers can expect a treasure trove of rare footage capturing different facets of Nelson’s life, accompanied by heartwarming interviews featuring notable figures like Dolly Parton, Kenny Chesney, Sheryl Crow, and more.
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Amidst the captivating stories, Nelson shares a humorous anecdote involving his first wife, Martha Matthews, who once threw a fork with such force that, as he puts it, “it stuck in my side.” Describing Matthews as a “dark-haired beauty” and a “full-blooded Cherokee,” Nelson’s marriage to her from 1952 to 1962 began when Matthews was just 16, defying his mother’s wishes. In a reflective voiceover, Matthews, who passed away in 1989, candidly recalls, “My mother didn’t want me to marry because I was as young as I was, so we just ran off.”
Despite the fork-throwing incident and the inevitable conflicts, Nelson warmly reflects on the decade-long partnership with Matthews, emphasizing the joy they shared. Following their divorce, Nelson went on to embrace three more marriages: with Shirley Collie from 1963 to 1971, Connie Koepke from 1971 to 1988, and finally finding enduring companionship with Annie D’Angelo, his happily-ever-after since 1991.
For an even more personal touch, listen to Willie Nelson’s heartfelt recollection of the moment his second wife discovered his affair in the audio clip below.
