Ed Smart is widely known as the father of Elizabeth Smart, whose high-profile abduction in 2022 drew national attention. Understanding his personal life, including who Ed Smart married, helps humanize the family behind the headlines and offers context for his public advocacy.
Reporters and followers often want clarity on his relationship status, especially regarding his current partner and how he has rebuilt his life after years in the public eye. This article outlines key details about Ed Smart’s marriage and relationship history with a focus on reliable information.
| Name | Relationship to Ed Smart | Marriage Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Susan Smart | First wife | 1992 | Elizabeth Smart’s mother; marriage ended before her death in 2020 | Barbara Smart | Fiancée | N/A | Publicly mentioned in news in 2024 as his partner |
| No current spouse | Not married as of 2025 | N/A | He is dating Barbara Smart but has not remarried |
Who Is Ed Smart Married To Today
As of 2025, Ed Smart is not married. He is, however, in a committed relationship with Barbara Smart, who has been introduced in media reports as his fiancée. They have attended events together and discussed plans for the future, though no wedding date has been confirmed.
Ed Smart’s Marriage to Susan Smart
Background and Family Life
Ed Smart married Susan Smart in 1992, establishing the family at the center of Elizabeth Smart’s story. Susan was both wife and mother to Elizabeth, serving as a constant presence during Elizabeth’s childhood and early advocacy work.
Impact of Her Death
Susan Smart passed away in 2020, profoundly affecting Ed and the family unit. Her death reshaped Ed’s personal life, leading him to seek companionship and support as he navigated grief and public attention.
The Current Relationship with Barbara Smart
Meeting and Public Appearances
Ed and Barbara Smart began spending time together after Susan’s passing and were first identified as a couple in 2023. They attended charity events and family gatherings, signaling a new chapter in Ed’s personal life.
Engagement and Future Plans
Reports in 2024 described Barbara as Ed’s fiancée, with sources indicating an engagement. They have discussed shared goals and maintaining a private yet supportive partnership as Ed continues his advocacy for Elizabeth’s legacy.
How the Relationship Influences His Advocacy
Ed Smart’s relationship with Barbara has added a stabilizing presence while he remains deeply involved in honoring Elizabeth’s memory. Having a supportive partner allows him to balance personal needs with ongoing public responsibilities, including speaking engagements and legislative efforts around safety and missing persons.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Ed Smart is currently not married but is in a committed relationship with Barbara Smart.
- His previous marriage to Susan Smart lasted from 1992 until her death in 2020.
- His relationship with Barbara represents a new personal chapter alongside his ongoing advocacy work.
- No official wedding date has been announced, but they have appeared publicly as an engaged couple.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is Ed Smart currently married to anyone?
No, Ed Smart is not currently married. He is in a long-term relationship with Barbara Smart but has not remarried as of 2025.
Who was Ed Smart married to before?
Ed Smart was previously married to Susan Smart from 1992 until her death in 2020. Susan was the mother of Elizabeth Smart.
Who is Barbara Smart in relation to Ed Smart?
Barbara Smart is Ed Smart’s fiancée and long-term partner. She has been publicly recognized as his companion since 2023, and they are reportedly engaged.
Has Ed Smart remarried since Susan’s passing?
No, Ed Smart has not remarried since Susan’s death. He is dating Barbara Smart and has spoken about their engagement in recent news coverage.