Joanna Shimkus is a famous Canadian-American actress recognized for her roles in projects such as “The Virgin and the Gypsy,” “Zita,” and “The Last Adventure.”

Joanna Shimkus’s Early Life

Joanna Shimkus was born as Joanna Marie Shimkus in Halifax, Nova Scotia, to Joseph Shimkus and Marie Petrie. She came into the world on October 30, 1943.

Growing up, the media star lived in Montreal, Canada, and went to a convent school. As of 2024, Joanna is 81 years old. She started modeling when she was young. At the age of 19, she moved to Paris, France, for modeling opportunities.

Who Were Joanna Shimkus’s Parents?

The media star Shimkus was born to Joseph, a Lithuanian Jew, and Petrie, an Irish Catholic. Her father worked for the Royal Canadian Navy, while her mother was a homemaker.

Moreover, The Univited star is of mixed ethnicity, with her father being Lithuanian Jewish and her mother being Irish Catholic.

In addition, her father worked in the Royal Canadian Navy, and her mother stayed at home. Her dad’s family came from Lithuania, and her mom was Irish.

Further, the TV star grew up on her grandma’s farm, where she loved being around animals. But later, her family moved to Montreal when her mom got a job. Her father, Joseph, passed away in 1978, while her mother, Marie, passed away in 2004.

Who Is Joanna Shimkus Married To? Let’s Have A Glimpse At Her Wedding

The 81-year-old Joanna and her late husband Sidney Poitier were a couple for many years and were married for 46 years until Poitier passed away on January 6, 2022, at the age of 94.

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Joanna Shimkus with her late spouse and daughters.
Image Source: Pinterest

Moreover, the media star got married to Poitier on January 22, 1976. The love mates first met while working together on the set of the 1969 movie “The Lost Man,” where they portrayed lovers on screen. Their bond grew stronger over time.

During their marriage, the duo had two daughters, Anika and Sydney Tamila, and created a loving family together.

Despite the challenges that society often presents for mixed-race relationships, Shimkus noted that they never faced such issues, demonstrating the strength of their connection.

Also, the love birds remained devoted to each other until Poitier’s passing, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love and respect.

Do You Know Joanna Shimkus Is The Second Wife Of Poitier?

Yes, you heard right. In the Heat of the Night star Sidney,was previously married to Juanita Hardy. before Joanna They were married from 1950 to 1965. During their marriage, they had four daughters: Beverly, Pamela, Sherri, and Gina.

In the similar way, A Time For Living star Shimkus married Poitier, she had been married once before. However, not much is known about her previous husband, including his name and what he did for a living.

Together, Sidney and his ex-wife Juanita shared special moments, as Juanita was an American model and dancer.

Also, Read About: Who is Harry Hamlin’s Wife? A Deep Dive into Their Life Together

How Did Sidney Poitier Die?

Sadly, Poitier, who passed away on January 6, 2022, was 94 years old. His death certificate from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health stated that he died from a combination of heart failure, prostate cancer, and Alzheimer’s dementia.

Also, this news became public on January 18, 2022, and it was reported by various trusted news outlets such as CNN, NBC Connecticut, People, Deadline, and NBC. Poitier was widely praised for his pioneering roles and contributions to the film industry.

Movies & TV Shows

The media personality Shimkus started acting in movies in 1964. She has been in many films, including “All About Loving,” “Who Are You, Polly Maggoo?,” “The Last Adventure,” “Zita,” “Boom!,” “Ho! Criminal Face,” “Woman in Chains,” “The Lost Man,” “The Uninvited,” “The Virgin and the Gypsy,” “The Marriage of a Young Stockbroker,” and “A Time for Loving.”

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Joanna Shimkus is versatile actress.
Image Source: Pinterest

To add more, the stunning actress’ last movie appearance was in the 2018 crime-drama short film “The Force.” In contrast, another star wife Meredith Schwarz is an entrereneur and fiancer advisor.

Looks & Height

In terms of Joanna’s physical appearance, she stands at 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighs 68 kilograms.

Additionally, she has grey eyes and blonde hair.

Short Bio On Sidney Poitier

Sidney was a Bahamian-American actor, film director, and diplomat, known for breaking barriers in Hollywood and paving the way for African-American actors.

Born on February 20, 1927, in Miami, Florida, the media star grew up in the Bahamas before moving to the United States at the age of 15.

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Joanna Shimkus’ hubby Sidney Poitier was talented actor.
Image Source: Pinterest

Moreover, Poitier’s acting career began in the early 1950s, where he faced significant challenges due to racial discrimination prevalent in the industry at the time.

Throughout his career, the TV personage starred in numerous acclaimed films, including “The Defiant Ones” (1958), where he portrayed an escaped convict chained to a white prisoner, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

In 1963, he made history by becoming the first African-American to win the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in “Lilies of the Field.”

Besides, the late artist continued to take on groundbreaking roles, often portraying characters who confronted racial injustice and inequality, such as in “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” (1967) and “To Sir, with Love” (1967). He also ventured into directing, helming films like “Uptown Saturday Night” (1974) and “Stir Crazy” (1980).

In recognition of his achievements, Poitier received numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, awarded by former President Barack Obama in 2009.

What Is Joanna Shimkus’s Net Worth? Her Earnings & Real Estate

As of 2024, Shimkus is estimated to have a net worth of approximately $1 million. However, details about her salary and other earnings are not available.

In contrast, Sidney had an estimated net worth of $20 million at the time of his passing.

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