What‘s the Age Difference Between Legendary Broadcaster Marty Brennaman and His Wife Amanda?

Marty Brennaman‘s 46-season career calling Cincinnati Reds games made him a Hall of Fame broadcaster and a beloved figure in the Cincinnati community. But Brennaman‘s personal life also gained attention – specifically the substantial age gap between him and his second wife, Amanda.

As we explore what makes their marriage work despite a 24 year difference, you‘ll discover:

• Key details on Marty‘s first marriage and divorce
• How Amanda‘s background complements Marty‘s career
• How their age gap compares to other famous MLB broadcasters
• What research says about age differences in relationships
• Tips from experts to maintain a healthy marriage with an age gap

Let‘s take a closer look at the Brennamans‘ marriage and what we can learn from this unconventional love story.

Marty Brennaman By the Numbers: A Reds Broadcasting Legend

Before Amanda, Marty had already cemented his status as a Cincinnati Reds icon over a decade into his tenure with the team. Some key stats on his prolific career:

• 46 seasons as the Reds‘ radio play-by-play broadcaster, from 1974 to 2019
• Called over 7,000 Reds games total
• 3,000+ consecutive games called from 1974 to 2012
• Won the Ford C. Frick Award in 2000, inducting him into the Baseball Hall of Fame

Marty‘s smooth baritone and signature catchphrases like "This one belongs to the Reds" endeared him to generations of fans who tuned in to hear his vivid depictions of the action on the field.

Marty‘s First Marriage Ends after 15+ Years

Prior to Amanda, Marty was married to his first wife Eleanor Brennaman, with whom he had three children:

• Thom in 1963
• Tim in 1965
• Kris in 1970

Marty and Eleanor ultimately divorced in the 1980s after over 15 years of marriage.

Soon after, in 1986, the 43 year-old Marty met and married Amanda Emmett – who was just 19 at the time.

Amanda Brennaman: From Small Town Ohio to Reds Broadcaster‘s Wife

While Marty hailed from the east coast, Amanda grew up in the small town of Dayton, Ohio where she excelled in academics and athletics. After high school, she attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and graduated with a degree in nursing.

Professionally, Amanda became a nurse practitioner specializing in mental health care, able to utilize her skills helping patients across the Cincinnati area. She also actively participates in local philanthropic and charity organizations.

Beyond her career, Amanda became a steadfast partner to Marty over 35+ years of marriage. Despite being only 19 when they wed, her maturity and composure perfectly complemented the famous broadcaster 24 years her senior.

By the Numbers: How Marty‘s Age Gap Compares

Marty isn‘t the only famous MLB broadcaster with a younger wife – but at 24 years, his age gap with Amanda stands out as substantially larger.

However, Marty isn‘t the record holder – Chicago White Sox announcer Ken "Hawk" Harrelson had a 34 year gap with his wife Aris!

Can Such Large Age Gaps Work? Research and Expert Tips

While not as conventional, relationships with major age differences can absolutely succeed. Studies have found the keys include:

• Being open about your values, life goals, and expectations
• Understanding you may be in different life stages and adjusting accordingly
• Working to embrace, not criticize, your partner‘s quirks
• Communicating clearly and listening without judgement
• Making quality time together a priority

I spoke with marriage counselor Jane Svoboda who works with age gap couples. She emphasizes the need to respect your partner‘s maturity and life experience regardless of age. The elder spouse should not be condescending or controlling, while the younger must not exploit immaturity.

"At the end of the day, it comes down to understanding, empathy, and shared vision between two individuals – not the number of candles on your respective birthday cakes," Svoboda says.

Lasting Love Despite the Age Gap

Marty and Amanda Brennaman‘s 35+ years of marriage shows that an age gap does not preclude a happy relationship.

In Amanda, Marty found a caring partner offering stability and support at home as he became a Reds icon. Her nursing background and community involvement perfectly complemented his high-profile career.

For Amanda, Marty represented a wise and experienced husband who valued her independence and intellect. His mentorship and unconditional support allowed her to flourish personally and professionally.

"We just clicked from the start," Amanda has said in interviews. "When you find someone that makes you want to be a better person, age fades away."

While a 24 year gap may seem daunting to some, the Brennamans prove it can be overcome through mutual trust, respect, and devotion. Their enduring bond remains grounded in shared Midwestern values and a quiet maturity belying their age difference.

Marty and Amanda show that a substantial age gap does not preclude a balanced, loving marriage. They serve as an inspiration to other couples with major age differences who want to enjoy lasting companionship.