Bing Crosby Children
Introduction:
When people search for “Bing Crosby children,” they’re usually trying to uncover the personal side of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures. Bing Crosby’s velvet voice, timeless Christmas songs, and classic films shaped American entertainment — but his family story is equally fascinating.
Crosby was the father of seven children from two marriages. Some became entertainers, some lived quieter lives, and others faced personal struggles. This article explores their lives, accomplishments, controversies, and how they’ve contributed to the family’s enduring legacy.
By the end, you’ll learn:
- Who Bing Crosby’s children were
- Their personal histories and career paths
- The challenges they faced growing up in a famous household
- Where they are today
- How Bing’s family continues to influence Hollywood
Let’s dive into the full family story.
Who Were Bing Crosby’s Children? A Quick Overview
Bing Crosby had seven children:
With First Wife: Dixie Lee Crosby
- Gary Crosby (1933–1995)
- Phillip Crosby (1934–2004)
- Dennis Crosby (1934–1991) — Phillip’s twin
- Lindsay Crosby (1938–1989)
With Second Wife: Kathryn Grant Crosby
- Harry Crosby (born 1958)
- Mary Crosby (born 1959)
- Nathaniel Crosby (born 1961)
Many people searching for “Bing Crosby children” also want to understand the two very different households these children grew up in. His first set of children lived under stricter rules, while the second grew up in a much quieter, more nurturing environment.
Bing Crosby’s Children From His First Marriage
Gary Crosby: The Eldest Son and Controversial Memoirist
Born: June 27, 1933
Died: August 24, 1995
Profession: Singer, Actor, Author
Gary was the most visible of Bing’s children. He started as a singer, performed with his father, and appeared on TV shows like:
- The Ed Sullivan Show
- The Jack Benny Program
His Controversial Book
Gary wrote a revealing memoir titled “Going My Own Way.”
It painted Bing as a strict, emotionally distant father.
Many fans search “Bing Crosby children controversy”, and Gary’s book is the main reason. Bing’s second family denied the harsh claims, leaving a divided legacy.
Gary’s Later Life
He continued working in television and radio until his death at age 62 from lung cancer.
Dennis Crosby: Twin Son With a Life of Struggles
Born: October 13, 1934
Died: May 4, 1991
Profession: Singer, Performer
Dennis performed with his brothers in the group The Crosby Boys, enjoying moderate success in the 1950s–60s.
His Struggles
Dennis battled:
- Alcohol addiction
- Depression
- Legal issues
- Public paternity lawsuits
He passed away in 1991 at age 56.
Phillip Crosby: Twin Brother, Actor, and Singer
Born: October 13, 1934
Died: January 13, 2004
Profession: Actor, Singer
Phillip, like Dennis, performed with The Crosby Boys. He also appeared in Hollywood films, including:
- Sergeant Deadhead
- None But the Brave
Phillip lived a more private life later on and passed away at age 69.
Lindsay Crosby: The Youngest of Bing’s First Four Sons
Born: January 5, 1938
Died: December 11, 1989
Profession: Actor, Singer
Lindsay followed the entertainment path briefly before stepping away.
His Challenges
He struggled deeply with:
- Mental health
- Alcoholism
- Financial pressure
- The emotional weight of being “Bing Crosby’s son”
He died tragically at age 51.
What Led to the First Family’s Struggles?
Many researchers and entertainment historians suggest:
- Strict discipline from Bing
- Growing up in the spotlight
- High expectations to match their father’s fame
- Their mother’s early death from alcoholism in 1952
This combination affected all four of Crosby’s sons emotionally.
Bing Crosby’s Children From His Second Marriage
After Dixie died, Crosby married Kathryn Grant, a young actress. Their household was very different — more stable, less pressure, and healthier overall.
Harry Crosby: Actor, Banker, and Business Executive
Born: August 8, 1958
Profession: Investment Banker, Former Actor
Harry appeared in a few films and TV shows but quickly transitioned into finance.
Career Highlights
- Partner at Snow Phipps Group
- Executive positions at major financial institutions
- Highly successful in private equity
He maintains a private personal life.
Mary Crosby: Actress Known for “Who Shot J.R.”
Born: September 14, 1959
Profession: Actress
Mary is the most famous of Bing’s second set of children.
Famous For:
She played Kristin Shepard on Dallas — the character who shot J.R., one of the biggest TV moments in history.
Other Notable Works:
- The Ice Pirates
- High Society (TV adaptation)
- Numerous guest appearances on major shows
Mary remains active in charity and occasionally acts.
Nathaniel Crosby: Professional Golfer and Businessman
Born: October 29, 1961
Profession: Golfer, Author, Business Executive
Nathaniel won the 1981 U.S. Amateur Championship, making him one of the best amateur golfers of his time.
Other Highlights:
- Author of “18 Holes with Bing: Golf, Life, and Lessons from Dad”
- President of Trod Corp
- Former CEO of sports-related businesses
Nathaniel describes his father as loving, supportive, and humorous — a stark contrast to the accounts from the first family.
Comparing Crosby’s Two Households: Why Were They So Different?
People often search:
- “Why did Bing Crosby’s first children suffer?”
- “Why did his second children praise him?”
Key Reasons for the Differences:
- Bing was older and more emotionally mature in his second marriage.
- He was less stressed, no longer trying to prove himself in Hollywood.
- Kathryn was stable and deeply involved in the home.
- The second family lived a quieter life, away from Los Angeles pressures.
- Mental health awareness was better by the 1960s–70s.
This created calmer, healthier childhoods for his younger kids.
Where Are Bing Crosby’s Children Today?
Living Children (2025):
- Harry Crosby – Private equity executive
- Mary Crosby – Actress & philanthropist
- Nathaniel Crosby – Golfer & businessman
Deceased Children:
- Gary (1995)
- Dennis (1991)
- Phillip (2004)
- Lindsay (1989)
Bing Crosby’s Family Legacy
Even today, Bing’s children contribute to:
- Entertainment (Mary)
- Sports (Nathaniel)
- Finance (Harry)
- Pop culture debates (Gary’s memoir)
Their stories reflect both the beauty and challenges of growing up in a famous Hollywood family.
FAQs About Bing Crosby’s Children
1. How many children did Bing Crosby have?
He had seven children — four with his first wife and three with his second.
2. Which of Bing Crosby’s children are still alive?
Harry, Mary, and Nathaniel are alive as of 2025.
3. Why did Bing Crosby’s first children criticize him?
Their accounts describe a very strict upbringing and emotional distance.
However, the second family denies these claims.
4. Was Bing Crosby a good father?
This remains debated. His older children reported harsh discipline, while his younger children described him as warm, playful, and loving.
5. Did any of Bing Crosby’s children become famous?
Yes — especially Gary (singer/actor), Mary (actress), and Nathaniel (golfer).
Conclusion:
The story of Bing Crosby’s children is a mix of success, struggle, love, and controversy. His seven children lived very different lives, shaped not only by fame but by the changing times and family circumstances.
Some became public figures, some faced difficult battles, and others built quiet, successful careers. Together, they form a fascinating portrait of one of Hollywood’s most influential families.If you found this deep dive helpful, explore more celebrity family histories on our blog — and feel free to share your thoughts or questions in the comments below!
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