The Love Story of Henry Louis Gates Jr. and His Historian Wife
The Love Story of Henry Louis Gates Jr. and His Historian Wife
Henry Louis Gates Jr., the renowned host of the popular TV show Finding Your Roots, is not just a familiar face on television but also a dedicated husband to his fellow historian, Dr. Marial Iglesias Utset. Their love story is a blend of academic passion, shared interests, and a deep commitment to each other.
Henry’s Journey to Love
Before finding love with Marial, Henry was married to Sharon Lynn Adams from 1979 to 1999. Together, they had two daughters, Maggie and Liza. Although his first marriage ended, Henry’s journey to love continued, leading him to Marial.
Meet Marial Iglesias Utset
Marial Iglesias Utset is a distinguished historian and professor at Harvard University. Born in Cuba, Marial is fluent in Spanish and has an impressive academic background. She earned her Ph.D. in Historical Sciences from the University of Havana and furthered her studies at Moscow State University. Marial is a specialist in Cuban history and has authored a critically acclaimed book, A Cultural History of Cuba during the US Occupation, 1898-1902.
Currently, Marial works at the Afro-Latin American Research Institute at Harvard, focusing on Culture and Race in Cuba, Atlantic Slavery, and African Diaspora Studies. Her work and dedication to academia have made her a respected figure in her field.
A Shared Life in Massachusetts
The couple tied the knot in 2021 and have since built a life together in Cambridge, Massachusetts, near the prestigious Harvard campus. Their shared passion for history and academia has not only strengthened their bond but also led to collaborative research projects.
A Memorable Trip to Rome
In July 2025, Henry and Marial embarked on a memorable trip to Rome, where they met with Pope Leo XIV. The purpose of their visit was to present the Pope with their findings about his genealogical history. Henry shared this deeply moving experience on social media, highlighting the significance of the moment.
Henry wrote, “On Saturday, my wife, the historian Dr. Marial Iglesias Utset, and I were granted the profound honor of a private audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican to present him with a copy of his family tree.” He further explained that they had worked with a team of researchers to publish the Pope’s family tree in The New York Times Sunday Magazine.
This experience was one of the most meaningful moments in their lives, as they shared stories of the Pope’s ancestors dating back to his 12th great-grandparents. Marial’s expertise in Spanish history and her ability to communicate in Spanish made the meeting even more special, as she could share detailed stories about the Pope’s Spanish ancestors.
Henry later recounted the experience in an interview with PBS News, emphasizing the depth and diversity of the Pope’s family tree. He praised his research team for their ability to trace the Pope’s lineage back to his 12th great-grandparents in just five days.
Conclusion
The love story of Henry Louis Gates Jr. and Marial Iglesias Utset is a testament to their shared passion for history and academia. Their journey together, from their marriage in 2021 to their collaborative research and memorable trip to Rome, showcases a deep and meaningful connection that continues to inspire.
