Most people know Fred Ward for his tough-guy roles in movies like Tremors and The Right Stuff. But not many know about the woman who stood quietly beside him for almost 30 years — Marie-France Ward. She wasn’t an actress. She didn’t chase the spotlight. Still, she was a big part of Fred Ward’s life.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Marie-France Ward, Fred Ward’s wife, and the beautiful, private life they shared. From their quiet love story to their near-divorce and strong bond, you’ll learn all the facts — explained in the simplest way.
Marie-France Ward Quick Bio
| Full Name | Marie-France Ward |
| Birth Year | Between 1947 and 1950 |
| Age (2026) | Around 76 to 79 years old |
| Nationality | American (possible French roots) |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (1.7 m) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Marital Status | Widowed |
| Spouse | Fred Ward (married 1995–2022) |
| Children | No biological kids; stepmom to Django Ward |
| Known For | Being Fred Ward’s wife |
| Profession | Private life; not publicly known |
| Famous For | Quiet 27-year marriage to actor Fred Ward |
| Lives In | United States (likely California) |
| Social Media | None |
| Net Worth | Inherited part of Fred Ward’s $3 million estate |
How Marie-France Became Fred Ward’s Wife
Marie-France met Fred Ward sometime in the early 1990s. At that time, Fred had already built a strong acting career. He was known for playing serious and strong characters. After two earlier marriages, Fred found something real with Marie-France.
We don’t know exactly how they met. Maybe it was through friends, or maybe by chance. But what we do know is this: their connection was real. They understood each other and gave their relationship time to grow.
They were different from many Hollywood couples. There were no big headlines or loud stories. Their love grew quietly — and that’s what made it special.
Marie-France Ward and Fred Ward’s Wedding in the 1990s
In 1995, Marie-France and Fred Ward got married. It wasn’t a huge Hollywood wedding. It was private and simple, just like the way they lived. And it was the start of a marriage that would last almost 30 years.
By then, Fred had already been in many films, and he could have chosen a flashy lifestyle. But instead, he chose Marie-France — someone who valued real life over red carpets.
Their wedding marked the beginning of something rare in the world of fame: a love that lasted through time, trials, and quiet devotion.
Life Together, Nearly 30 Years of Marriage
From 1995 until Fred Ward’s death in 2022, Marie-France was by his side. That’s 27 years of marriage — almost three full decades. In Hollywood, where many marriages end fast, theirs stood out.
They kept their relationship mostly private. They didn’t talk to the press or share details with the world. But when they did appear together, you could see the bond between them.
Fred once said that Marie-France made his life better, especially in his later years when he started painting. They found peace in each other’s company, far away from flashing lights and noisy cameras.
Marie-France Ward’s Rare Public Appearances
Even though she stayed away from fame, Marie-France did attend a few red carpet events with Fred. These moments gave fans a small look into their relationship.
In 2001, they went to the Summer Catch premiere. A year later, in 2002, they were seen smiling together at the Abandon premiere. In 2004, they showed up at the 10.5 premiere. And in 2011, they walked the red carpet for 30 Minutes or Less.
Each time, they looked happy and comfortable. There were no fake smiles or awkward posing. They simply stood together, looking like a couple who truly enjoyed being side by side.
The 2013 Divorce Filing That Shocked Fans
In August 2013, something unexpected happened — Marie-France filed for divorce. The news came as a shock to fans who thought the couple was doing well.
In the court papers, she listed “irreconcilable differences” as the reason. She also asked for spousal support, which is common in divorce cases. For a while, it looked like their long love story might be coming to an end.
People didn’t know what went wrong, and neither Fred nor Marie-France shared any public details. But things were about to change — again.
Why Marie-France Ward Took Fred Ward Back
Just a few weeks after filing for divorce, Marie-France had a change of heart. She withdrew the divorce papers and stayed with Fred. It was a quiet decision, but a powerful one.
Fred later said, “We had filed for divorce and quickly thereafter withdrew the paperwork because we had resolved our issues. After 18 years of marriage, we are still very much in love.”
That short message told fans everything they needed to know. Their love was stronger than their problems. They chose each other again — and that made their story even more beautiful.
Did Fred Ward and Marie-France Have Children?
Marie-France Ward and Fred Ward did not have children together during their 27 years of marriage. However, Fred had one son from a previous relationship — a boy named Django Ward. He had this son with his second wife, Silvia Ward.
Django was named after the famous jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt, showing Fred’s love for music. While Marie-France was not his biological mother, she became Django’s stepmother when she married Fred.
There’s not much public information about Marie-France’s relationship with Django. But knowing her calm and caring nature, it’s likely she played a respectful and steady role in the family. She supported Fred as a husband and as a father.
Fred Ward’s Death and Marie-France’s Grief
On May 8, 2022, Fred Ward passed away at the age of 79. His publicist, Ron Hofmann, confirmed the sad news. The cause of death was not shared, as the family wanted privacy during such a personal time.
Fred died in San Diego, California, where he had lived peacefully in his final years. After his death, his ashes were given to Marie-France Ward, his wife and closest companion. This quiet act showed the deep bond they shared, right to the end.
Fred had one final wish. He asked that any tributes be made as donations to the Boston University Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy Center. This showed his concern for others and his thoughtful spirit — something Marie-France surely helped shape.
Where Is Marie-France Ward Now?
Since Fred Ward’s passing, Marie-France Ward has stayed completely out of the spotlight. She hasn’t given any interviews or made public statements. She does not use social media. Just like during her marriage, she has chosen a life of quiet peace.
Marie-France likely still lives in the United States, perhaps in the same place she and Fred called home. She has not remarried, and there are no reports about her starting a new public chapter.
Her silence isn’t cold — it’s powerful. It shows her deep respect for Fred Ward’s memory and for the life they built together. She honors him in the same quiet way she loved him.
Why Fans Still Want to Know About Fred Ward’s Wife
Even in 2026, people still search for Marie-France Ward, Fred Ward’s wife, because her story is different. In a world full of loud fame and short marriages, she lived a real love story — one that was private, lasting, and honest.
Fans are curious about her not because she was famous, but because she was real. She showed the world that it’s okay to stay in the background and still matter deeply. Her strength came from love, not from the spotlight.
By standing by Fred for almost 30 years, forgiving during hard times, and staying strong after his death, Marie-France became someone people quietly admire — even if they never hear her speak.
Final Thoughts
Marie-France Ward may not be a name you see in headlines, but her story leaves a mark. As Fred Ward’s wife, she showed love, patience, and loyalty for almost three decades. She lived a life full of heart — not for attention, but for meaning.
Her journey reminds us that real love doesn’t need loud moments. It just needs honesty, time, and care. Marie-France had all of that. Even after Fred’s passing, she remains a symbol of quiet devotion.
And maybe that’s why her story still touches people — because it’s rare, real, and filled with quiet strength.
(FAQs)
Was Marie-France Ward famous when she was young?
She was not famous when she was young. People only knew her after she married Fred Ward.
Did Marie-France Ward do any well-known work?
She didn’t do any famous work. She stayed out of the spotlight and lived a quiet life.
Can people contact Marie-France Ward or find her number?
There is no phone number or public contact for her. She keeps her life very private.
Did Marie-France Ward have a son?
She didn’t have her own children. But she became a stepmom to Fred Ward’s son, Django.
Where is Marie-France Ward now, and how does she earn?
She still lives a quiet life in the U.S., maybe in California. She doesn’t work publicly and got part of Fred Ward’s money after he passed away.
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