Rachel Maddow, the renowned host of MSNBC’s Emmy award-winning show “The Rachel Maddow Show,” has captivated audiences since 2008 with her insightful commentary and in-depth analysis.
Many fans are curious about Maddow’s personal life, particularly her relationship status. So, is Rachel Maddow married? Let’s delve into her life off the screen and explore her long-term partnership with artist Susan Mikula.
Rachel Maddow’s Personal Life: A Glimpse into Her Relationship
Rachel Maddow, 37, shares her life with her long-term girlfriend, Susan Mikula, an accomplished artist. The couple has a unique arrangement that helps Maddow maintain a balance between her demanding career and personal life.
Each weekend, they retreat to their quaint home three hours north of New York in Western Massachusetts. Interestingly, their weekend home doesn’t have cable or even a television, which is a conscious choice to avoid the “TV Disease.”
“We realized that the two of us have the TV Disease,” explains Mikula, 52. “Rachel can’t have one because she’d watch it all the time!” Instead, they savor the tranquility of their rural home, enjoying solitude and home-cooked meals prepared by Mikula.
How Rachel Maddow and Susan Mikula Met
Rachel Maddow and Susan Mikula’s love story began in 1999. At that time, Maddow was working various odd jobs while working on her doctoral dissertation.
She was hired by Mikula to do yard work on her property in the Berkshires, leading to a relationship that Maddow humorously describes as “very Desperate Housewives.”
Their connection grew stronger over the years, culminating in a partnership that has endured for over two decades. Despite their busy schedules, they have maintained a strong and loving relationship, with Maddow frequently expressing how vital Mikula is to her life.
Life Without Television: A Weekend Tradition
While Rachel Maddow does have a small TV in their tiny New York City apartment, it’s primarily for Mikula to watch Maddow’s show on Friday nights before picking her up.
This arrangement allows Maddow to unwind and disconnect from the fast-paced world of news and media, ensuring she has quality time with Mikula.
Their weekend retreats are filled with simple pleasures, such as enjoying the peaceful surroundings and Mikula’s delicious home-cooked meals. This lifestyle choice reflects their commitment to preserving their personal space and mental well-being.
Rachel Maddow’s Career and Advocacy
Since 2008, Rachel Maddow has been a prominent figure in American journalism, known for her insightful and often provocative commentary. As the first openly gay news anchor in the U.S., she has been a trailblazer in the industry, using her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and other critical social issues.
In a recent interview with Variety, Maddow discussed the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, despite the progress made with the landmark Supreme Court decision that legalized gay marriage.
She emphasized that while marriage equality is a significant milestone, many individuals still face discrimination in various aspects of their lives.
Susan Mikula’s Battle with COVID-19
In November 2020, Susan Mikula contracted COVID-19, a challenging time for both her and Rachel Maddow. Maddow took time off work to care for Mikula and later shared their experience on “The Rachel Maddow Show” to raise awareness about the virus’s impact.
During the broadcast, Maddow spoke emotionally about how critical Mikula is to her, describing her as “the center of my universe.” She emphasized the importance of their relationship, stating, “My relationship with Susan is the only thing at the end of the day that I would kill or die for without hesitation.”
Conclusion: A Strong and Enduring Partnership
Rachel Maddow and Susan Mikula’s relationship is a testament to their enduring love and commitment. While they are not married, their partnership is as strong as any marital bond. Their ability to balance their professional and personal lives, coupled with their deep affection for each other, continues to inspire many.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Rachel Maddow married?
No, Rachel Maddow is not married. However, she has been in a long-term relationship with Susan Mikula since 1999.
2. Who is Susan Mikula?
Susan Mikula is an American artist and photographer known for her work with older technology, such as pinhole and Polaroid cameras. She had her first solo photography exhibition in 1998.
3. How did Rachel Maddow and Susan Mikula meet?
The couple met in 1999 when Maddow was hired to do yard work on Mikula’s property in the Berkshires. Their relationship grew from this initial encounter, leading to a strong and lasting partnership.
4. Does Rachel Maddow have children?
No, Rachel Maddow and Susan Mikula do not have children.
5. How did Susan Mikula’s COVID-19 diagnosis affect Rachel Maddow?
Susan Mikula’s COVID-19 diagnosis in November 2020 was a difficult time for both her and Maddow. Maddow took time off work to care for Mikula and later shared their experience on her show to highlight the seriousness of the virus and the importance of taking precautions.