Who is June Baranco? – Bio, Wiki, Stats & More
June Carlyn Baranco (born June 22, 1948) is an American artist and milliner, best known as the former wife of renowned TV journalist Bryant Gumbel. Though she has maintained a relatively private life, her story intertwines creativity, resilience, and quiet dignity.
Early Life & Education
- Born in the USA on June 22, 1948, Baranco grew up with a deep appreciation for art and aesthetics.
- Reportedly studied art and design — sources suggest attendance at Manhattan’s High School of Art & Design and possibly the Fashion Institute of Technology.
- Became adept at sewing from a young age; her Aunt Eura gave her her first sewing lessons and a sewing machine on her 10th birthday.
Marriage & Family
- Began dating Bryant Gumbel in the late 1960s after meeting in Chicago. They married on December 1, 1973.
- The couple had two children:
- Bradley Christopher Gumbel, born 1978
- Jillian Beth Gumbel, born 1983.
- As Bryant’s TV career advanced—especially as co‑host of Today (beginning 1982) and The Early Show—Baranco became a full‑time mother and homemaker.
Artistic Pursuits & Millinery
- June channeled her creative inclinations into hat‑making, launching Geaux Chapeaux, a boutique millinery business.
- Inspired by fabrics, vintage hat blocks, and fine ribbons, she designed bespoke hats for events like LSU’s “Tea, Fashion & Fancies”.
- Even after her separation, she maintained her identity as an artist, with painting and millinery at her core .
Separation & Divorce
- After nearly 28 years of marriage, the couple separated in June 1997, finalizing their divorce in August 2001.
- Baranco endured years of emotional turmoil due to Bryant’s extramarital affairs, describing her deep hurt: “He shot me through the heart”.
- She reportedly faced financial hardship during the divorce despite Bryant’s earnings “about $600,000 a month,” receiving only a small allowance .
- Her divorce settlement is believed to have included half the Westchester home and a significant portion of Bryant’s estimated $20 million net worth.
Present-Day Life & Legacy
- In recent years, Baranco has kept a low public profile, focusing on her art, family, and private lifestyle.
- Age 76, she lives quietly in the U.S., occasionally showing her millinery and art through platforms like Instagram accounts tied to Geaux Chapeaux.
- Her story reflects resilience, dignity, and a commitment to creative expression—living life on her own terms.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | June Carlyn Baranco |
| Born | June 22, 1948 |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Art & design studies in NYC (Art & Design HS, FIT?) |
| Occupation | Artist, milliner, former flight attendant, homemaker |
| Marriage | Bryant Gumbel (1973–2001) |
| Children | Bradley (1978), Jillian (1983) |
| Known For | Millinery brand “Geaux Chapeaux”; quiet resilience |
| Net Worth | Uncertain; likely supported by divorce assets |
Why She Matters Despite Her Privacy
- June’s role wasn’t just as “Bryant Gumbel’s wife”—she cultivated her own talents and brand, showing artistry and independence.
- Her journey through personal challenges and a high-profile divorce highlights her inner strength and determination.
- As an artist and mother, she exemplifies living authentically, on her own terms—with elegance and quiet power.
Final Thoughts
June Baranco may not be a household name, but her influence extends through her creative legacy and life story. From art and design to millinery and motherhood, she has embraced each chapter with dignity, staying true to herself—even when the spotlight shifted. Her story is a testament to resilience, passion, and personal integrity.
FAQs about June Baranco
Q1: Who is June Baranco?
June Baranco is an American artist, milliner, and the former wife of TV journalist Bryant Gumbel. She gained public attention primarily due to her high-profile marriage and subsequent divorce but has built a career in art and millinery.
Q2: When was June Baranco born?
She was born on June 22, 1948.
Q3: What is June Baranco known for?
Apart from being known as Bryant Gumbel’s ex-wife, June is recognized for her creative work in millinery. She founded a hat-making brand called Geaux Chapeaux and is also known for her painting and artistic talent.
Q4: How long was June Baranco married to Bryant Gumbel?
June Baranco was married to Bryant Gumbel for almost 28 years, from 1973 until their divorce in 2001.
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Q5: Does June Baranco have any children?
Yes, she has two children: a son, Bradley Christopher Gumbel (born 1978), and a daughter, Jillian Beth Gumbel (born 1983).
Q6: Why did June Baranco and Bryant Gumbel divorce?
The couple divorced due to irreconcilable differences, largely stemming from Bryant Gumbel’s reported infidelity and the emotional strain it caused in their marriage.
Q7: What is June Baranco doing now?
June Baranco lives a relatively private life, focusing on her art and millinery work. She occasionally showcases her designs but keeps a low public profile.
Q8: What is June Baranco’s net worth?
Her exact net worth is not publicly known. However, she likely secured significant assets following her divorce settlement with Bryant Gumbel, whose net worth was estimated to be around $20 million at the time.
Q9: Where is June Baranco from?
She was born and raised in the United States. She spent part of her life in New York and has connections to Louisiana, which inspired her brand name “Geaux Chapeaux.”
Q10: Is June Baranco active on social media?
June Baranco herself maintains a low profile online. However, some of her millinery work may appear on social media pages related to her business.
