Joe Montana’s wife is Jennifer Montana. The NFL icon Joe Montana not only secured four Super Bowl victories with the San Francisco 49ers but also maintained an unwavering devotion to his wife, Jennifer Montana, throughout his remarkable career.
Though celebrated as one of football’s all-time greats, Montana’s heart was always at home. Even while commanding plays on the field, his thoughts often drifted toward Jennifer — to the extent that he famously called her from the sideline telephones used to communicate with coaches.
“I don’t know what made me do it,” he once told NFL Films. “I wondered if those phones could make outside calls. I hit 9, got a dial tone, and called home.”
From that day, it became a cherished ritual. Before or after key plays, Joe would call Jennifer just to tell her he loved and missed her.
His romantic gesture became so iconic that it was even immortalized on football trading cards. He humorously admitted to testing the phones in every NFL stadium just to reach her.
The couple’s story began in the early 1980s, blossoming into a marriage that has endured for decades.
Together, they share four children — two daughters and two sons — and a bond that has proven stronger than fame itself.
So, who exactly is the woman behind one of football’s greatest quarterbacks? Here’s everything to know about Jennifer Montana, Joe’s lifelong partner and inspiration.
From Screen To Spotlight: Jennifer’s Early Career In Acting And Modeling
Before becoming known as the wife of an NFL legend, Jennifer Montana built a name for herself as a model and actress.
She gained recognition in the 1990s for her role as Miss Lisa on the children’s show Adventures with Kanga Roddy.
Her early modeling work and commercial appearances opened doors — and, as fate would have it, led her to meet the man who would change her life forever.
A Chance Encounter On Set: How Jennifer Met Joe Montana
Jennifer first met Joe in the early 1980s while working on a commercial shoot. At the time, she had no idea who he was.
“I didn’t know anything about football,” Jennifer recalled in an interview with Yahoo. “My agent told me, ‘You’re going to work with Joe Montana,’ and I said, ‘Who’s Joe Montana?’”
Despite being one of the biggest names in sports, Joe appeared nervous on set — a quality Jennifer found endearing.
Playfully, she gave him a pinch to help him relax, and their chemistry quickly turned into something more. The commercial ended, but their love story was just beginning.
The Proposal That Took Two Tries
Though sparks flew early on, Jennifer didn’t immediately accept Joe’s first marriage proposal.
Six months into dating, Joe casually popped the question in a lighthearted way — scribbling on a restaurant bill, “What would you say if I asked you to spend the rest of your life with me?”
She didn’t say yes, but she didn’t say no either. Refusing to give up, Joe planned a more romantic second proposal.
During another dinner date, a plane flew overhead carrying the message: “Jen, will you marry me?”
This time, her answer was an enthusiastic yes. The couple married in February 1985, marking the start of a lifelong partnership built on humor, mutual respect, and love.
Building A Family: Joe And Jennifer’s Four Children
Over the years, Joe and Jennifer welcomed four children: daughters Alexandra and Elizabeth, and sons Nate and Nick.
Family remains the heart of Jennifer’s world. Speaking with CBS News, she said, “Family is everything. It’s what we’ve always emphasized to our kids.”
Following in their father’s footsteps, both Nate and Nick played college football. Meanwhile, Elizabeth built a career in investment operations, and Alexandra pursued law school in California.
Creativity At Home: Jennifer’s Career In Interior Design And Jewelry
Beyond her time in front of the camera, Jennifer Montana found success as an interior designer based in California.
Through her design firm, she collaborates with homeowners and architects to create elegant, functional spaces.
“I focus on using light, nature, and structure to elevate a home’s ambiance,” she shares on her website. “Every space deserves to be one-of-a-kind.”
Her creative spirit doesn’t stop there — she also designs and sells handcrafted jewelry, adding yet another dimension to her artistic career.
The Secret Behind Joe’s Super Bowl Luck
Even Joe credits Jennifer for playing a key role in his Super Bowl success. Before the 1989 Super Bowl against the Cincinnati Bengals, Jennifer secretly packed his old jersey from his 1985 championship win.
When Joe unpacked his gear, he found a note from Jennifer that read, “This brought you good luck last time — maybe it’ll do the same again.”
Though slightly different from the team’s current uniform, Joe wore it proudly — and led the 49ers to victory. To this day, he calls it one of the most meaningful gestures of his career.
A Love That Stands The Test Of Time
Through fame, victories, and life beyond the field, Joe and Jennifer Montana have built a partnership grounded in loyalty and mutual admiration.
Their decades-long marriage serves as proof that even in the competitive world of professional sports, love can remain the greatest win of all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Did Joe Montana Call His Wife From The Football Sidelines?
During NFL games, Joe often used sideline phones — meant for coaches — to call Jennifer and tell her he loved and missed her. This became a sweet and well-known tradition during his career.
How Long Have Joe And Jennifer Montana Been Married?
As of 2025, the couple has been married for over 40 years, making them one of the most enduring and admired partnerships in professional sports.
Did Joe Montana Credit His Wife For Any Of His Super Bowl Wins?
Yes. Joe credits Jennifer for inspiring his 1989 Super Bowl victory after she secretly packed his lucky jersey from a previous championship — a move he said brought him good fortune.
What Shows Or Movies Has Jennifer Montana Appeared In?
Jennifer is best known for her role as Miss Lisa in the 1990s children’s series Adventures with Kanga Roddy and has appeared in various commercials.
Where Do Joe And Jennifer Montana Live Now?
The couple currently resides in California, where Jennifer manages her design business, and they enjoy a quiet, family-centered life away from the media spotlight.