Phyllis Minkoff: Life Before and After Maury Povich

Phyllis Minkoff may not be a household name like her former husband, Maury Povich, but her life is filled with unique contributions, personal achievements, and quiet influence behind the scenes. Best known for her previous marriage to the legendary television host, Minkoff has managed to keep much of her life out of the limelight. However, recent interest and newly uncovered details about her career, personal life, and post-divorce years have led to renewed curiosity about who she truly is.

Below, we explore Phyllis Minkoff’s life journey—before, during, and after her marriage to Maury Povich—along with a comprehensive bio, background, and frequently asked questions to provide a well-rounded understanding of this fascinating woman.

Quick Bio Table: Phyllis Minkoff

Early Life and Background

Phyllis Minkoff was born on February 15, 1941, in Washington, D.C. Growing up in a politically active family, she developed an early interest in communication, politics, and public service. She was known for being an academically gifted student with a deep curiosity about media and journalism.

Minkoff later attended the University of Maryland, where she earned a degree in Journalism. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for a promising career in public relations and advocacy.

Career Before Maury Povich

Prior to meeting Maury Povich, Minkoff carved out a career for herself in public relations and political consulting. She worked with several nonprofit organizations and political action committees (PACs), where she specialized in communications strategy, media outreach, and legislative advocacy.

She was particularly known for her skill in writing compelling press releases and organizing grassroots campaigns, a rare feat for women at the time. Her clients reportedly included progressive organizations working on civil rights and healthcare reform during the 1960s and 70s.

Marriage to Maury Povich

Phyllis Minkoff married Maury Povich in the early 1960s. At the time, Povich was still establishing himself as a journalist and broadcaster. Their marriage coincided with a period of personal and professional growth for both.

They had two children together: Susan Anne Povich, who later became a successful lawyer and entrepreneur, and Amy Povich, who pursued a career in acting. Throughout their marriage, Minkoff played a supporting but influential role in Povich’s career, offering public relations guidance and strategic advice as his television presence grew.

Life as a Political Insider

While Maury was in the public eye, Minkoff remained active in the political world. She reportedly worked with prominent figures in Washington, D.C., offering PR consulting to Democratic candidates and policy think tanks. Her connections and expertise made her a sought-after strategist in progressive circles, even though she never sought public credit for her work.

Insiders describe her as sharp, diplomatic, and principled—a woman who preferred substance over spotlight.

Divorce and Public Reaction

After more than 15 years of marriage, Phyllis Minkoff and Maury Povich divorced in 1979. The split was handled privately and respectfully, with both parties choosing not to engage in public disputes or media attention.

The reasons for their divorce remain largely personal, but friends close to the couple say that career ambitions and differing lifestyle goals may have played a part. Maury Povich’s rising fame likely put added pressure on their relationship.

Raising Their Daughters

Following the divorce, Minkoff retained custody of their daughters and continued raising them primarily in Washington, D.C. She emphasized education, independence, and critical thinking. Her parenting style was described as nurturing yet firm, and both daughters have spoken fondly of her in past interviews.

Amy Povich, now married to prominent physician and author David Agus, has credited her mother with instilling strong values and intellectual curiosity.

Life After Maury Povich

After her separation from Povich, Phyllis Minkoff retreated from the public eye but didn’t slow down professionally. She continued working in consulting and eventually founded her own boutique PR firm, which specialized in advocacy communications for progressive causes.

She also briefly taught media strategy workshops at several universities and remained active in local civic organizations. Minkoff is known for her philanthropic efforts, especially in women’s education and healthcare advocacy.

Newly Discovered Insights into Her Career

In recent years, archival documents and oral histories have shed more light on Minkoff’s contributions to civil rights campaigns in the 1970s. A recently digitized political campaign memo from 1974 lists Minkoff as a senior strategist on a Senate campaign in Maryland—an uncredited role previously unknown to the public.

This newfound information has reignited interest in her legacy, particularly among political historians who are reevaluating the contributions of behind-the-scenes women in politics.

Relationship with Her Daughters Today

Minkoff reportedly maintains a close relationship with both daughters. Despite leading private lives, they frequently gather for family events and holidays. Sources familiar with the family describe her as “the glue that holds the family together,” especially since Maury Povich’s remarriage to Connie Chung in 1984.

Where Is Phyllis Minkoff Now?

As of 2025, Phyllis Minkoff is believed to reside in Washington, D.C., living a quiet, retired life. While she rarely makes public appearances, she occasionally attends private events for organizations she once worked with. She remains politically engaged and is known to write opinion letters and contribute to local causes.

Legacy and Public Recognition

While not a celebrity, Minkoff’s legacy lies in her quiet influence across journalism, politics, and family life. Her story is a reminder of the many individuals—especially women—who help shape history from behind the curtain.

In a world dominated by fame, Phyllis Minkoff chose a different path: one grounded in values, service, and impact.

Conclusion

Phyllis Minkoff may forever be associated with her ex-husband Maury Povich, but her personal and professional journey stands strong on its own. From a promising start in journalism to becoming a key figure in political strategy, and from motherhood to advocacy, her life is a testament to the power of intelligence, discretion, and purpose.

Her story continues to evolve as more insights about her contributions to American political life come to light.

FAQs – Phyllis Minkoff

Who is Phyllis Minkoff?

Phyllis Minkoff is a former public relations executive and political strategist best known as the first wife of television host Maury Povich. Born in Washington, D.C., she built a career in advocacy and nonprofit communications, working with various political organizations during the 60s and 70s. Though she kept a low profile, Minkoff played a significant role in both the political and media landscapes of her time.

What was her role in Maury Povich’s early career?

While she wasn’t directly involved in television, Phyllis Minkoff supported Maury Povich during his formative years in journalism. She provided communications advice and moral support as he transitioned from local news to national television. Her background in PR was instrumental in helping him navigate media opportunities early on, even though she stayed behind the scenes.

What happened after she divorced Maury Povich?

After their divorce in 1979, Minkoff continued raising their two daughters and furthered her career in public relations. She founded a boutique PR firm, worked on political campaigns, and became involved in women’s advocacy. Unlike Povich, who remained in the spotlight, Minkoff preferred a quiet life focused on service and family.

Did Phyllis Minkoff remarry after divorcing Maury Povich?

There is no public record indicating that Phyllis Minkoff remarried after her divorce from Maury Povich. It is believed that she chose to focus on her children, career, and advocacy work. She has remained largely private about her personal relationships since the divorce.

What new information has recently emerged about her?

Recently uncovered documents from 1970s political campaigns have revealed that Minkoff played more significant roles than previously known. She was listed as a senior strategist on multiple campaigns, including for U.S. Senate candidates. This has prompted historians to revisit her impact on progressive politics during a crucial time in American history.