Dustin Hoffman's Love Story: From Ex-Wife Anne Byrne To Wife Lisa Hoffman

Jewell Rolfson 18 May 2025

Let’s talk about love, Hollywood style. For Academy Award-winning actor Dustin Hoffman, love has played a huge role in shaping his life and career. Married to his soulmate Lisa Hoffman (née Gottsegen) since 1980, their story is as inspiring as it gets. But before Lisa, there was Anne Byrne, his first wife. Keep reading to uncover the fascinating love story behind one of Hollywood's most iconic figures.

Dustin Hoffman's First Love: Who Is Anne Byrne?

Before Dustin Hoffman became a household name, he was already making waves in Hollywood with his breakout role in Midnight Cowboy. In 1969, he tied the knot with Anne Byrne, an actress in her own right. Anne had already made her mark in Hollywood, starring in films like Manhattan alongside legends such as Diane Keaton and Meryl Streep. Interestingly, Anne brought her daughter Karina Hoffman-Birkhead into the marriage from a previous relationship, and Dustin embraced her as his own, officially adopting her. Together, they also welcomed their daughter Jenna Hoffman into the world.

Unfortunately, all good things come to an end, and Dustin and Anne parted ways in 1980. But Anne didn’t stop there. She continued to shine in her acting career, appearing in various TV shows like Glenroe, The Clinic, and even the animated series Galactik Football. Her legacy in the entertainment industry remains strong to this day.

Love Revisited: How Dustin Hoffman Met Lisa Hoffman

Before Dustin became the Hollywood icon we know today, he was a teenager studying piano. At just 16 years old, Dustin found himself playing the piano at Lisa Hoffman's parents' wedding. Little did he know, this moment would set the stage for a beautiful love story years later. Lisa's mom was even pregnant with her at the time, adding an extra layer of serendipity to the tale.

Fast forward a decade, and Dustin finds himself at a barbecue hosted by Lisa’s family. It was here that their connection began to blossom. Lisa vividly recalls their first meeting in a July 2007 interview with Daily Mail. "Dustin was telling us jokes, playing the piano, and encouraging me to dance around the living room," she reminisced. "Later that day, I remember saying, 'I hope he waits for me because I want to marry him.'"

Years later, at Lisa's grandfather's funeral, they reconnected. Lisa was just 22, while Dustin was 38, but age was no barrier for their instant connection. They eventually married in 1980, and their love has only grown stronger with time. "We work hard at it," Lisa told Closer in July 2017. "I knew I was going to end up with Dusty, and my life would revolve around traveling with him."

Building a Family Together: Dustin and Lisa's Children

Dustin and Lisa have built a beautiful family together, welcoming four children: Jacob, Rebecca, Maxwell, and Ali. Their kids have gone on to pursue their own passions, some following in their parents' footsteps in the entertainment industry. Jacob, in particular, has spoken fondly about the influence his parents have had on his career as an actor and director.

In an October 2015 interview with Today, Jacob shared, "I have a great dad; I’ve learned a lot from him. Both of my parents have been a huge influence in my life." It’s clear that the Hoffman family values love, support, and creativity, passing these values down through generations.