Shania Twain and her ex-husband, Robert John “Mutt” Lange, were once one of the music industry’s most celebrated power couples. Their partnership, both personal and professional, produced some of the most iconic country music of all time. However, their split later became one of the industry’s most scandalous stories.
The Beginning of a Musical Powerhouse
The story of Shania Twain and her ex-husband, Mutt Lange, began in June 1993, shortly after Twain released her self-titled debut album.
Despite critical acclaim, the album was not a commercial success. Enter Mutt Lange, a renowned rock producer known for his work with bands like AC/DC and Def Leppard. Lange offered to produce Twain’s next album, and their collaboration on “The Woman in Me,” released in February 1995, marked the start of Twain’s meteoric rise in the music industry.
A Blossoming Romance
Before the release of “The Woman in Me,” Twain and Lange’s working relationship evolved into a romantic one. They married in December 1993, creating a formidable team that blended Twain’s country roots with Lange’s rock influence.
Twain has always emphasized her role in shaping her image and music, despite Lange’s significant influence. “A lot of those ideas were things I was working on before I met him,” she noted in a 1996 interview with Interview magazine. Their synergy led to the success of albums like “Come on Over” and “Up!,” solidifying Twain’s status as a country music superstar.
Behind the Scenes Struggles
Despite their professional success, Twain and Lange faced significant personal challenges. In 2003, Twain was diagnosed with Lyme disease after a tick bite, which severely damaged her vocal cords. This health crisis prevented her from touring and recording new music, putting a strain on both her career and her marriage.
The Infidelity Scandal
In 2008, after 14 years of marriage, Twain’s world was shattered when she discovered Lange was having an affair with her close friend and personal assistant, Marie-Anne Thiébaud.
The revelation was devastating. Twain recounted in her 2011 memoir, “From This Moment On,” how she felt during that tumultuous time: “For the first week after finding out about the affair, I was ready to die. To go to bed forever and never wake up.”
The Role of Frédéric Thiébaud
The affair was brought to light by Frédéric Thiébaud, Marie-Anne’s husband. Initially, Twain was in disbelief, thinking Frédéric was making it up. However, as the truth became undeniable, she found herself in the depths of despair.
Despite the public scandal and emotional turmoil, Twain’s relationship with Frédéric evolved from shared heartbreak to romance. They married on New Year’s Day 2011, turning a story of betrayal into one of unexpected love.
Life After the Scandal
Twain has been candid about the impact of her divorce and the affair on her life.
Speaking on the “Armchair Expert” podcast in February 2023, she revealed that she has not maintained any contact with Lange or Marie-Anne, focusing instead on co-parenting their son, Eja, now 21. Twain expressed a sense of closure and peace, stating, “I think everyone gets what they deserve. I got what I deserve — I got the greatest man on the planet.”
Reflecting on Her Journey
Twain’s journey through betrayal, illness, and eventual healing is a testament to her resilience. Despite the pain caused by Lange’s infidelity, she found solace and love with Frédéric. Reflecting on her divorce, Twain shared, “I was uncontrollably fragile over it…I really believed that I’m safe, so that really devastated me.”
Conclusion: Triumph Over Adversity
Shania Twain’s saga with her ex-husband, Mutt Lange, is indeed worthy of a country song. From their initial collaboration and romantic union to the heartbreaking affair and her subsequent rebound,
Twain’s life story is a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity. Her ability to find love and stability with Frédéric Thiébaud showcases her strength and resilience. Twain’s journey is a reminder that even in the face of profound betrayal, one can find new beginnings and lasting happiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Shania Twain and Mutt Lange meet?
Shania Twain and Mutt Lange met in June 1993, shortly after Twain released her debut album. Lange offered to produce her next album, leading to their professional collaboration and subsequent romantic relationship.
What caused Shania Twain’s divorce from Mutt Lange?
Twain and Lange divorced in 2008 after 14 years of marriage. The marriage ended due to Lange’s affair with Twain’s close friend and personal assistant, Marie-Anne Thiébaud.
How did Shania Twain handle the news of Mutt Lange’s affair?
Twain was devastated by the news of Lange’s affair. She described feeling ready to die and profoundly betrayed. The revelation was particularly painful as she had trusted her friend, Marie-Anne.
Who is Shania Twain married to now?
Shania Twain is married to Frédéric Thiébaud, the ex-husband of Marie-Anne Thiébaud. They bonded over their shared heartbreak and married on New Year’s Day 2011.
How has Shania Twain’s relationship with Mutt Lange evolved since their divorce?
Since their divorce, Twain and Lange communicate only regarding their son, Eja. Twain has stated that they parent well together despite not speaking to each other directly.