Who is Jillian Dempsey? Patrick Dempsey’s Wife of 27 Years Who Almost Got Divorced

Patrick Dempsey, the iconic American actor and race car enthusiast, has been winning hearts since the 1990s. Widely recognized for his role as Dr. Derek Shepherd in Grey’s Anatomy, Dempsey, also known as “McDreamy,” has built a remarkable career in Hollywood while maintaining a long-term marriage to Jillian Dempsey, formerly Jillian Fink.

Early Life and Career of Patrick Dempsey

Born on January 13, 1966, in Lewiston, Maine, Patrick grew up in a modest family and faced challenges including dyslexia. Sports, particularly skiing, provided him with confidence, and he excelled as one of Maine’s top skiers. Patrick also developed early performing skills through juggling and vaudeville tours, ultimately leading him toward acting.

He debuted in feature films in 1985 with Heaven Help Us and gained teenage fame in Can’t Buy Me Love (1987), earning the Young Artist Award. His acting versatility expanded through films like Loverboy, Coupe De Ville, and Run, before securing lasting fame as Dr. Derek Shepherd on Grey’s Anatomy (2005), earning critical acclaim and awards.

Patrick’s Love for Motorsports

Outside Hollywood, Patrick is passionate about motorsports. He owns a collection of sports and classic cars and has competed in events such as the Tecate SCORE Baja 1000, Rolex 24 at Daytona, and 24 Hours of Le Mans. He also manages his own racing team, Dempsey Racing.

Marriage and Family Life with Jillian Dempsey

Patrick married makeup artist Jillian Fink in 1999, and they share three children: Talula, Darby, and Sullivan. In 2015, the couple faced a rough patch, and Jillian filed for divorce. However, after nearly a year of therapy and reconciliation, they chose to stay together, strengthening their bond.

Jillian is a renowned makeup artist and entrepreneur, launching successful cosmetic and skincare lines, including Delux Beauty and Jillian Dempsey Line. She has worked with top actors such as Kristen Stewart, Kate Winslet, and Reese Witherspoon. Known for her cruelty-free and vegan products, Jillian balances professional success with family life, often supporting Patrick behind the scenes.

Today, the Dempseys remain a celebrated Hollywood couple, with Patrick’s estimated net worth around USD 85 million from films, motorsports, endorsements, and entrepreneurial ventures.