Who Is Gayle King’s Ex-Husband? What to Know About William Bumpus

**Gayle King Reflects on Marriage and Divorce from William Bumpus**

Gayle King, the renowned co-host of CBS Mornings, has recently opened up about her tumultuous marriage and subsequent divorce from her ex-husband, William Bumpus. The couple tied the knot in 1982 and welcomed two children before their separation in 1993. King’s candid revelations provide a glimpse into the emotional complexities of their relationship, particularly in light of Bumpus’s infidelity.

In a more recent interview on the podcast *Call Her Daddy*, which aired on May 27, 2026, King recounted the moment she discovered Bumpus’s betrayal. She returned home to find her husband in bed with another woman—a violation of trust that ultimately led to the dissolution of their marriage. King described the harrowing realisation, remembering how the couple’s children were in the house at the time. “He came flying out of the room, wrapped in a towel, telling me I couldn’t come in,” she revealed, emphasising the shock and disbelief she felt in that moment.

Bumpus, who later admitted to the affair in a public statement in 2016, expressed regret for his actions. He stated that he had been “haunted by this life-altering choice.” Following King’s podcast appearance, he reiterated his apology, stating he respects her right to share her story about their painful past. In his words, “Those actions were mine. I have long owned them… Gayle has every right to share what was a painful chapter that changed the trajectory of our marriage and our family nearly 40 years ago.”

In the years that followed the revelation of the affair, King and Bumpus attempted to salvage their relationship through counselling, yet it became clear to King that the damage was irreparable. Reflecting on the emotional toll, she remarked, “I realised he hadn’t really changed, but I was turning into such a shrew.” King acknowledged that living under such strain affected her sense of self. “I didn’t like who I was,” she said. “Who wants to live like that?”

Their divorce was finalised in 1993 and marked a significant turning point for both individuals. Since then, they have worked diligently to maintain a healthy co-parenting relationship for the sake of their two children, Kirby Bumpus and William Bumpus Jr. In her recent discussions, King emphasised that despite their past, they have prioritised their children’s welfare above all else.

King’s relationship with Bumpus is not without challenges. Yet, both parents have expressed their mutual respect for each other in their roles. In a Father’s Day post in 2024, Bumpus referred to King as an “excellent” co-parent, highlighting her grace and dedication to their children. However, he also acknowledged that he is navigating the journey of parenthood with another daughter, Poet Willow Bumpus, on his own.

William Bumpus, a Yale Law School alumnus, has had a robust career in law, serving as a senior partner at The Wolf and Shore Law Group. He has experience as an assistant state’s attorney and has spent time as a police officer and adjunct professor. His professional commitments have kept him actively involved in his field, even alongside his personal challenges.

As Gayle King continues to thrive in her career, her insights into her past serve as a testament to her resilience. Through public discussions about her marriage and subsequent divorce, she provides a perspective that highlights the complexities of relationships, personal growth, and the importance of focusing on the next generation.

Ultimately, King and Bumpus are examples of how two individuals can move past their differences and work toward a common goal—providing a loving environment for their children. Their story intricately weaves together themes of forgiveness, growth, and the long road to healing. As they navigate the repercussions of their past, it is clear that both parents are committed to ensuring their children experience the love and support they need.