Dee Jay Mathis, born between 1940 and 1942, is an American actress best known for her marriage to the late Hollywood icon, James Caan. Although her film career was brief, her association with Caan brought her into the public eye. Following her divorce, Mathis has maintained a low profile, remaining out of the public spotlight while still drawing occasional interest due to her past connection to the Hollywood legend.
Early Life and Personal Background
| Real Name | Dee Jay Mathis |
| Nickname | Dee Jay |
| Famous for | Being the first wife of legendary actor James Caan |
| Date of Birth | B/W 1940-1942 |
| Age | 80-82 years (as of 2022) |
| Profession | Actress, Public figure |
| Birthplace | New York, United States |
| Current Residence | American |
| School | Private School |
| Nationality | American |
| Net Worth | $2-3 million (approximately) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Boyfriend/Ex-Husband | James Caan |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Zodiac sign | Unknown |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Parents | Mr. Mathis (father)Mrs. Mathis (mother) |
Physical Appearance
Dee Jay Mathis possesses a pleasant personality, standing at approximately 5 feet 5 inches and weighing around 64 kilograms. She has brown hair and black eyes, and her graceful demeanor was evident when she appeared at red-carpet events with Caan in her younger years.
Career Overview
Dee Jay Mathis explored a brief acting career, likely supported by her then-husband, James Caan. Mathis appeared in a couple of film roles, although she remained uncredited in her performances.
- 1964 – Debut in The Passy: Mathis took on the role of “Broad” in this minor film, though her performance received limited attention, and she was not widely recognized.
- 1966 – Frankie and Johnny Role: Mathis portrayed an Earl Barton dancer, once again receiving no formal credit. After these uncredited appearances, she decided to step away from acting.
Since leaving the entertainment industry, little is known about her subsequent career or personal pursuits. Mathis has remained entirely out of the media spotlight and is known for leading a low-key life away from public attention.
Marriage to James Caan and Family Life
Dee Jay Mathis is often remembered for her relationship with James Caan, an iconic figure in Hollywood known for his role in The Godfather and numerous other classic films. The two married in 1960, and their union brought Mathis considerable attention.
Family Life
- Daughter: Mathis and Caan welcomed their only child together, Tara A. Caan, on November 5, 1964.
- Divorce: Despite their high-profile marriage, Mathis and Caan divorced two years after Tara’s birth. Although their relationship ended, Mathis remained a well-known figure for her brief role in Caan’s life.
Following their split, Caan remarried multiple times, ultimately marrying four women over his lifetime. His second marriage was to Sheila Marie Ryan, followed by a union with Ingrid Hajek from 1990 to 1995. His final marriage was to Linda Stokes, lasting from 1995 to 2017. Caan had five children from these marriages, including actor Scott Caan, who has gained fame in his own right.
Key Facts About Dee Jay Mathis
- Red Carpet Appearances: During her marriage to James Caan, Mathis often attended major events such as the Golden Globe Awards and the Oscars.
- Lifestyle Shift: Following her divorce, Mathis transitioned from a high-profile life to a more private one.
- Style: Known for her chic short hairstyles in her 30s, Mathis had a distinctive look that complemented her presence at high-society events with Caan.
- Current Life: Today, Mathis lives a quiet life, avoiding social media and rarely making public appearances.
FAQs About Dee Jay Mathis
Who is Dee Jay Mathis?
Dee Jay Mathis is an American actress who is widely known as the first wife of celebrated Hollywood actor James Caan.
How old is Dee Jay Mathis?
Mathis is currently between 80 and 82 years old.
When was Dee Jay Mathis born?
She was born sometime between 1940 and 1942.
When did Dee Jay Mathis’ ex-husband, James Caan, pass away?
James Caan passed away on July 6, 2022, at the age of 82.
Why is Dee Jay Mathis famous?
Dee Jay Mathis gained fame primarily due to her marriage to James Caan, with whom she shared a high-profile Hollywood life.
Dee Jay Mathis’s story is one of quiet dignity, despite the glittering spotlight that her marriage to James Caan once cast on her. While she chose a life away from fame, her legacy continues to intrigue fans of Hollywood history.
