When people hear the name Sugar Ray Leonard, they often think of boxing glory, championship belts, and incredible fights. But behind his success is someone just as powerful in a different way — his wife, Bernadette Robi.
Bernadette is not just a celebrity wife. She is a former model, a strong mother, a smart businesswoman, and the heart of Sugar Ray Leonard’s world. For over 30 years, she has stayed by his side, quietly building her own identity.
In today’s article, we’ll take a closer look at who Bernadette Robi really is. You’ll discover her early life, her struggles, her modeling career, and how her love story with Sugar Ray began. There’s so much more to her than most people know — and you’re about to find out why.
Bernadette Robi Quick Bio
| Full Name | Bernadette Robi |
| Birthday | April 18, 1958 |
| Age (2026) | 68 years old |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Black father, White Argentinian mother) |
| Race | Mixed-race |
| Religion | Christian |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | Sugar Ray Leonard |
| Ex-Husband | Lynn Swann |
| Children | Camille Leonard, Daniel Ray Leonard |
| Parents | Paul Robi, Martha Robi |
| Job (Past) | Sports swimsuit model |
| Job (Now) | Businesswoman, Foundation Director |
| Lives In | California, USA |
| Net Worth (2026) | Around $500,000 |
| Famous For | Being Sugar Ray Leonard’s wife |
Who Is Bernadette Robi?
Bernadette Robi is most well known as Sugar Ray Leonard’s wife, but there’s so much more to her story. She started her career as a swimsuit model and later became a respected businesswoman. She also helps lead the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation, which focuses on children’s health and diabetes research.
She has always kept her life private. Even though she attends red carpet events and charity galas, she doesn’t seek attention. She prefers to live quietly, focus on her family, and support her husband’s mission from behind the scenes.
In 2026, Bernadette is seen as one of the most supportive and classy celebrity wives in sports. Her calm strength, long-lasting marriage, and kindness continue to inspire many.
Bernadette Robi’s Early Life and Family Roots
Bernadette was born on April 18, 1958, in Brooklyn, New York. She later moved to Southern California, where she grew up. Her life was shaped by music and mixed culture from the very beginning.
Her father was Paul Robi, a famous musician and one of the original members of the legendary singing group The Platters. Her mother, Martha Robi, was a white woman of Argentinian heritage. This made Bernadette a child of mixed background — something that brought both beauty and challenges to her life.
Being an only child, she was very close to her parents. Sadly, her father passed away in 1989. But his musical legacy and values stayed with her, and they helped shape the woman she became.
Bernadette Robi and Her Mixed Heritage Struggles
Growing up with both Black and white roots wasn’t always easy for Bernadette Robi. In her younger years, she often felt like she didn’t fully belong anywhere. While some people accepted her, others criticized her just for how she looked.
In high school, she shared that some students — especially Black girls — treated her badly. They called her names and even hurt her physically. It was a painful time. Bernadette said it made school hard and affected how she felt about herself.
Even in her modeling career later on, people judged her skin tone. Some clients said she was “too light-skinned” or might “offend” others. These words stayed with her. But instead of giving up, Bernadette stayed strong and kept going. She learned how to stay true to herself even when others tried to define her.
Bernadette Robi’s Modeling Career
Before becoming Sugar Ray Leonard’s wife, Bernadette Robi was making a name for herself in the fashion world. She worked as a sports swimsuit model in Los Angeles and appeared in several magazines and ads. Her grace and natural beauty made her stand out.
But the modeling world wasn’t always kind. As a mixed-race woman, she often felt she didn’t fit the image clients wanted. People judged her by her skin color instead of her talent. Still, she worked hard and gained experience.
Eventually, Bernadette chose to leave the modeling world. She didn’t give up because she failed — she simply wanted a life with more meaning and freedom. That decision opened the door to a whole new chapter in her life.
Bernadette Robi’s First Marriage to Lynn Swann
Before she met Sugar Ray, Bernadette Robi was married to someone else — NFL football star Lynn Swann. Their wedding in 1979 was a glamorous affair. They had over 500 guests, a $30,000 reception, and a four-tier cake that cost $1,500. It was a big deal.
They even honeymooned in Paris and London and settled in California. But like many public couples, their marriage didn’t last. After four years together, they divorced in 1983.
Even though the marriage ended, it was part of Bernadette’s journey. It taught her lessons about love, fame, and personal strength — all of which helped shape the woman she would become later on.
How Bernadette Robi Met Sugar Ray Leonard
The love story between Bernadette Robi and Sugar Ray Leonard started in the most unexpected way — at a Luther Vandross concert in 1989. Bernadette was there with famous saxophonist Kenny G and his girlfriend. When Kenny G noticed Sugar Ray at the event, he called out and asked if he was married. “Bernadette wants to meet you!” he said.
At the time, both Bernadette and Sugar Ray were coming out of previous marriages. They were older, wiser, and ready for something real. That night was the beginning of something very special.
Their meeting wasn’t flashy — it was natural. And that’s probably why it worked. They didn’t rush. They took time to know each other. And over the next few years, their bond quietly grew stronger and deeper.
Bernadette Robi and Sugar Ray Leonard’s Love Story
After their sweet meeting at the Luther Vandross concert, Bernadette Robi and Sugar Ray Leonard took things slow. They didn’t jump into love. Instead, they spent time getting to know each other. They had both been through divorces, so they understood how important it was to build trust.
Bernadette said what surprised her most about Sugar Ray was how kind and down-to-earth he was. Even though he was a tough boxer in the ring, off-camera he had a soft heart. She said he had “a massive heart” and that’s what won her over.
Over the next four years, their relationship grew stronger. They were often seen together at charity events, dinners, and family outings. Their bond felt real and deep — not just for the cameras. And in 1993, they decided to make it official.
Bernadette Robi’s Marriage as Sugar Ray Leonard’s Wife
On August 20, 1993, Bernadette Robi became Sugar Ray Leonard’s wife. Their wedding was beautiful. It was held at a special estate once owned by singer Marvin Gaye. The garden was filled with thousands of flowers, turning it into a romantic wonderland.
Since that day, Bernadette and Sugar Ray have been married for more than 30 years. That’s rare in the world of fame and sports. Through ups and downs, they’ve stayed together. Their love has lasted through life’s challenges — and that says a lot.
Being Sugar Ray Leonard’s wife hasn’t always been easy. There were public eyes, pressures, and big events. But Bernadette handled it all with calm grace. She stayed out of drama and focused on her home, her kids, and her purpose.
Bernadette Robi’s Children and Family Life
Bernadette and Sugar Ray share two children together. Their daughter, Camille Leonard, was born in 1997. Their son, Daniel Ray Leonard, was born in 2000. Camille has followed in her mom’s footsteps and is now a model and businesswoman. She’s also popular on social media.
Bernadette is also stepmom to Ray Jr. and Jarrel, Sugar Ray’s sons from his first marriage. She treats all the kids with love and care. Family is very important to her. She often goes to events with them and spends quality time with her children.
Even though she keeps her life private, you can sometimes see photos of the family enjoying vacations, red carpet events, or just walking around the city. These moments show how close and happy they really are.
Bernadette Robi’s Work With the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation
In 2009, Bernadette Robi and Sugar Ray Leonard started a special project together. They created the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation. The mission is simple: help children live healthier lives and fight against diabetes.
Bernadette is the director of the foundation. She helps plan events, raise money, and bring people together for a good cause. They focus on healthy eating, exercise, and diabetes research — especially for kids. They also support studies for adults with diabetes.
She isn’t just a quiet helper in the background. She plays a leading role, and her passion really shows. This work gives her a strong voice in the world of health and charity, far beyond modeling or being a celebrity wife.
Bernadette Robi’s Life Today
Today, in 2026, Bernadette Robi lives a peaceful life with Sugar Ray Leonard. She is still private and keeps her Instagram account locked. But she uses her bio to say what matters most to her — her faith, her family, and her love for being a mother.
She no longer models, and she doesn’t chase fame. Instead, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones, running her foundation, and supporting Sugar Ray’s legacy. She has built a meaningful life on her own terms.
Even after all these years, Sugar Ray still shares sweet photos of them together. Whether they’re dressed up for a gala or relaxing at home, you can see the love between them. It’s clear that their bond is still strong.
Final Thoughts
Bernadette Robi, the woman behind the champion, is a true example of quiet strength. Her story is filled with courage, grace, and love. She faced many challenges — from being judged for her skin to leaving a career she once loved. But she turned those struggles into power.
As Sugar Ray Leonard’s wife, she has walked beside him with pride, patience, and heart. But she’s also her own person — a mother, a leader, and a woman of purpose.
If you thought Bernadette was just a celebrity wife, now you know the full story. She’s so much more. She’s an inspiration.
(FAQs)
How old is Bernadette Robi and when was she born?
Bernadette Robi was born on April 18, 1958. She is 68 years old in 2026.
Was Bernadette Robi married before Sugar Ray Leonard?
She was married to football star Lynn Swann before. They got divorced in 1983.
What is Bernadette Robi’s race or background?
Bernadette is mixed-race. Her dad was Black, and her mom was White from Argentina.
How many kids does Bernadette Robi have?
She has two children with Sugar Ray Leonard — a daughter named Camille and a son named Daniel.
Where does Bernadette Robi live now?
She lives a quiet life in California. She stays private and works with Sugar Ray on their charity foundation.
You may also read: Kirsten Kutner: What You Didn’t Know About Greg Norman’s Wife
