While many people look back fondly on the “good old days,” history shows that the past was not without controversy. One such scandal involved legendary singer Tom Jones, whose fame in the 1960s and 1970s extended beyond music into his personal life. Known for his powerful voice and charisma, Jones also became infamous for his romantic escapades—boasting he had relations with up to 250 women in one year.
Despite his reputation as a sex symbol, Tom Jones remained married to his wife, Linda, for nearly six decades until her death from lung cancer in 2016. Biographer Sean Smith noted that “from the very beginning, he was not exactly Mr Faithful,” a statement that seems mild given the scope of his affairs. While it’s unclear how much Linda truly knew, the couple reportedly had a “don’t ask” policy while he was on tour, indicating an unspoken understanding.
Among Jones’s many rumored romances, one that stood out involved Marjorie Wallace, an American beauty queen who captured his attention in the 1970s. Born in 1954, Marjorie’s early life was marked by her parents’ divorce and her independent spirit. At just 14, she traveled 1,200 miles to Miami with a friend, showcasing her boldness and desire for freedom. In high school, she participated in dances, cheerleading, and competitive swimming, living a typical teenage life—until fame came calling.
At age 17, Marjorie began dating a guitarist from the band Pure Funk, a hint of the glamorous life to come. Her big break came in 1973 when she became the first American to win the Miss World title. This victory brought her into celebrity circles and eventually led to her fateful meeting with Tom Jones. She was just 19 when they met in his dressing room at the London Palladium. According to reports, Jones was instantly captivated by her.
Their relationship was more than just a casual affair. Unlike his other brief encounters, Tom Jones seemed genuinely taken with Marjorie. He even bought her a bracelet—alongside one for his wife—because their birthdays were so close. This small but telling gesture reflected the emotional complexity of his dual relationships.
Ultimately, while Tom Jones’s talent made him a global icon, his personal life was filled with complications. His romance with Marjorie Wallace stood out in a sea of flings, shedding light on the private struggles behind the public image of one of pop music’s most enduring legends.
