Jayne Kennedy, born Jane Harrison on October 27, 1951, in the nation's capital of Washington, D.C., is a multifaceted American personality whose illustrious career has spanned numerous professional realms, earning her widespread recognition and acclaim as a talented actress, captivating model, and authoritative sportscaster.
Jayne's extraordinary odyssey commenced with a groundbreaking moment in her life, as she was officially declared the winner of the Miss Ohio USA 1970 competition, a monumental achievement that marked a significant milestone in her career, as she became the very first African American woman to claim this prestigious title.
Jayne's foray into the world of modeling led to a serendipitous encounter with Leon Isaac Kennedy, a multifaceted individual who wore multiple hats as a DJ, actor, and writer, struggling to make a name for himself in the competitive entertainment industry.
As their paths crossed, Jayne and Leon found themselves inexplicably drawn to one another, their connection blossoming into a deep and abiding love that would last a lifetime.
In 1970, the couple decided to take the plunge and tie the knot, with none other than the legendary Motown singer-songwriter Smokey Robinson serving as the best man at their wedding.
Following their nuptials, Jayne and Leon made the bold decision to relocate to California, seeking to capitalize on the plethora of opportunities that the Golden State had to offer in the world of acting.
Together, they set out to conquer the entertainment industry, their love serving as the bedrock upon which they would build their careers and their lives.
During the pivotal decade of the 1970s, Jayne left an indelible mark on the television industry, accumulating an impressive portfolio of over 10 notable guest appearances and roles in a total of seven films, thereby solidifying her position as a talented and versatile performer. Her remarkable and memorable performance in the year 1978, in particular, proved to be a groundbreaking moment in her career, as it earned her a prestigious spot as one of the first women to successfully break into the male-dominated world of sports announcing, with a coveted role on the esteemed program, The NFL Today.
Jayne's foray into the realm of exercise videos began in the early 1980s, marking the onset of a new chapter in her life. However, this promising venture was subsequently interrupted by a life-altering diagnosis of Endometriosis, a condition that would pose significant challenges in the years to come.
In the midst of this personal turmoil, Jayne's marriage to Leon Isaac Kennedy came to an end in 1982, as the couple parted ways. Undeterred by this setback, Jayne remarried actor Bill Overton in 1985, embarking on a new chapter in her life.
Despite the ongoing struggles she faced with Endometriosis, Jayne and her husband Bill welcomed three delightful daughters into their family: Savannah Re, born on November 20, 1985; Kopper Joi, born on May 17, 1989; and Zaire Ollyea, born on September 15, 1995.
