Morgan Freeman, the iconic actor with a career spanning over five decades, is also a proud father of four and grandfather to 14. Known for his legendary voice and remarkable acting, Freeman has built a legacy both on and off the screen.
Freeman became a father in the 1960s, welcoming his sons Alfonso and Saifoulaye with two different women. Reflecting on his early years, Freeman admitted to The Telegraph in 2014: "I'm not sure fatherhood changed me. I was busy trying to be an actor, and the two didn't really go together in my youth."
His first marriage to Jeanette Adair Bradshaw in 1967 brought two more daughters into his life. Freeman adopted Bradshaw’s daughter, Deena, from a previous relationship, and together they had another daughter, Morgana. He also helped raise Deena's daughter, E'dena Hines, with his second wife, Myrna Colley-Lee.
Freeman has said he became more "hands-on" as a father later in life and found true joy as a grandfather.
"Now I am in my dotage, I am a great grandfather. I have 14 grandchildren," he shared with The Telegraph.
One of his grandchildren, Alexis Freeman, who accompanied him to the 2016 Chaplin Awards, spoke about his impact to PEOPLE: "He makes you a really humble person. He makes you realize that you have to work for what you want."
Here’s a closer look at Morgan Freeman’s family:
Alfonso Freeman, 66
Freeman’s eldest son, Alfonso, followed in his father’s footsteps, pursuing a career in acting. He has appeared in films such as The Shawshank Redemption and Se7en. Alfonso has expressed admiration for his father’s legacy while carving out his own career in Hollywood.
Saifoulaye Freeman
Saifoulaye, Freeman’s second son, leads a more private life compared to his siblings. Despite staying out of the public eye, Saifoulaye remains a valued and cherished member of the Freeman family.
Deena Freeman
Deena, Freeman’s adopted daughter, is the eldest of his two daughters. Deena’s daughter, E'dena Hines, was also raised by Freeman and Myrna Colley-Lee, illustrating the close-knit nature of their family. In addition to her connection to Freeman’s legacy, Deena has made her own mark in the entertainment industry. She was part of the hairstyling teams nominated for two Emmy Awards for outstanding hairstyling in a miniseries or movie: for Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story in 2009 and Ring of Fire in 2013.
E’dena Hines (1982–2015)
E’dena Hines was Freeman’s granddaughter. She pursued acting but tragically lost her life in 2015 at the age of 33. Freeman paid tribute to her, saying: "Her star will continue to shine bright in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers."
Morgana Freeman
Morgana, Freeman’s youngest daughter, shares a special connection with her father. Known for her support of her father’s career and family values, Morgana has instilled Freeman’s wisdom in her daughter Alexis, who has often spoken highly of his influence and guidance.
Morgan Freeman’s journey as a father and grandfather highlights a softer side of the actor, showing his deep love for his family while continuing to inspire fans with his remarkable career. Through his close relationships with his children and grandchildren, Freeman’s legacy extends far beyond his on-screen roles.
