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5 Surprising Facts About Jeff Probst's Marriage To Lisa Ann Russell

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The question of "Is Jeff Probst married?" has been a persistent one for fans of Survivor, the iconic reality show he has hosted for over two decades. As of December 25, 2025, the answer is a resounding yes: Jeff Probst is happily married to his second wife, Lisa Ann Russell, a former model and actress. Their relationship, which began after his highly-publicized dating life, has blossomed into a private and stable family unit, proving that even the host of one of television's most dramatic shows can find lasting peace off-camera.

The couple's story is filled with interesting connections, including a surprising link to a beloved '90s sitcom star. Their marriage, now over a decade strong, highlights a successful blended family dynamic that Probst rarely discusses in public, making the details of their life together a fascinating topic for his dedicated fanbase.

Jeff Probst and Lisa Ann Russell: A Complete Profile

Jeff Probst and Lisa Ann Russell maintain a relatively private life despite their public careers. Their profile reveals a deep connection built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to their family.

Jeff Probst Biography Overview

  • Full Name: Jeffrey Lee Probst
  • Date of Birth: November 4, 1961
  • Age (as of 2025): 64
  • Birthplace: Wichita, Kansas, U.S.
  • Occupation: Television Host, Producer, Author
  • Known For: Host of the reality competition show Survivor (1996–present)
  • First Marriage: Shelley Wright (m. 1996; div. 2001)
  • Current Wife: Lisa Ann Russell (m. 2011)
  • Children: Stepfather to two children (Michael and Ava)

Lisa Ann Russell Biography Overview

  • Full Name: Lisa Ann Russell
  • Date of Birth: March 9, 1972
  • Age (as of 2025): 53
  • Birthplace: Shawnee Mission, Kansas (or Sterling, Illinois, sources vary)
  • Occupation: Former Model and Actress
  • Known For: Modeling for Revlon, acting roles in TV and film
  • Previous Marriage: Mark-Paul Gosselaar (m. 1992; div. 2011)
  • Current Husband: Jeff Probst (m. 2011)
  • Children: Two children from her first marriage: Michael and Ava

The Blended Family: How Jeff Probst Became a Stepfather

The marriage between Jeff Probst and Lisa Ann Russell in 2011 was a quiet affair, held at a private residence in Los Angeles. This union immediately established Jeff as a stepfather, a role he has embraced fully, often speaking about the joys of his blended family.

The Children and Family Life

Lisa Ann Russell brought two children from her previous marriage to actor Mark-Paul Gosselaar into the relationship: son Michael and daughter Ava. Probst has often expressed his deep love and commitment to his stepchildren, treating them as his own. This shift from "cool uncle" to devoted father figure was a significant change in his personal life.

He has spoken candidly about the challenges and rewards of step-parenting, emphasizing that his role is to be a loving, supportive presence rather than trying to replace their biological father. This focus on co-parenting and collaboration is a cornerstone of their family's stability.

A Private Ceremony

Unlike his public-facing career, Probst's wedding to Russell was intentionally low-key. The 2011 ceremony was held on December 5th at the home of the writer and producer of Survivor, Mark Burnett, who also officiated the wedding. This intimate setting reflected their desire to keep their personal life grounded and away from the media spotlight.

Lisa Ann Russell's Surprising Hollywood Connection

One of the most fascinating layers to Jeff Probst's marriage is his wife's past. Lisa Ann Russell was previously married to one of the biggest teen heartthrobs of the 1990s, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, best known as Zack Morris from Saved by the Bell.

From Saved by the Bell to Survivor

Russell and Gosselaar met on the set of Saved by the Bell: The College Years. They married in 1992 and had their two children before divorcing in 2011, the same year she married Probst. This timeline means that Probst and Gosselaar essentially swapped wives in a short period, as Gosselaar also remarried in 2012.

This surprising connection is a key part of the couple's history, demonstrating the interconnected nature of Hollywood relationships. Despite the unusual circumstances, both couples have successfully moved on to build new, happy families.

Jeff Probst's Past Relationships and Dating History

Before finding lasting love with Lisa Ann Russell, Jeff Probst had a notable dating history that included a relationship with a contestant from his own show, which generated significant media buzz at the time.

First Marriage to Shelley Wright

Probst's first marriage was to psychotherapist Shelley Wright. They were married in 1996, four years before Survivor first aired, and divorced in 2001, shortly after the show became a global phenomenon. Details about this marriage are scarce, as it predates much of his major fame.

Dating a Survivor Contestant

Following his divorce, Probst began a high-profile relationship with former Survivor: Vanuatu contestant Julie Berry. Their relationship started after the show's season ended in 2004. The two dated for four years, a rarity for the host of a competition show to date a former participant. Probst has stated that he waited until the season had completely aired before pursuing a relationship with her. The couple eventually split in 2008.

The Secret to a Long-Lasting Marriage

Jeff Probst and Lisa Ann Russell’s marriage has endured over a decade, a significant achievement in the often-volatile world of celebrity relationships. Their success is rooted in several key factors that contribute to their topical authority on stable family life.

Maintaining Privacy and Balance

The couple is known for keeping their relationship out of the tabloids. While Probst is constantly in the public eye due to Survivor, he and Russell have made a deliberate effort to shield their home life and their children from the intense media scrutiny that often follows celebrity couples. This commitment to privacy is frequently cited as a major factor in their stability.

A Shared Life Outside of Hollywood

Despite their careers being linked to the entertainment industry, the couple's focus is on simple, shared activities. Probst has often mentioned that his favorite thing to do is spend time with his family, engaging in normal, everyday activities. This grounded approach helps to balance the extreme demands of his career, which requires him to be away in Fiji for months at a time.

Ultimately, the answer to "is Jeff Probst married?" is a story of second chances, a successful blended family, and a commitment to a private life. Jeff Probst and Lisa Ann Russell’s enduring marriage serves as a quiet counterpoint to the high-stakes drama he presides over on television.

is jeff probst married
is jeff probst married

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