Inside the Fascinating Story of Tiny Tim Wife History and His Three Marriages
Fans searching for Tiny Tim’s wife are often surprised to learn that the famously eccentric musician married not once, but three times—each marriage revealing a different side of the man behind the ukulele and the unforgettable falsetto voice. Tiny Tim, born Herbert Khaury, became a cultural icon in the late 1960s with “Tiptoe Through the Tulips,” but his personal life was just as captivating as his stage persona. His romantic relationships ranged from a highly televised wedding viewed by millions to quieter, more grounded partnerships later in life. This article explores each of Tiny Tim’s wives—Miss Vicki, Miss Jan, and Susan Marie Gardner—while offering insight into how these marriages shaped his legacy.
Who Was Tiny Tim? A Brief Look at the Man Behind the Persona
Before exploring his marriages, it’s important to understand Tiny Tim himself. Known for his quirky falsetto vocals, vintage musical style, and ever-present ukulele, Tiny Tim was unlike any entertainer of his time. Rising to fame in the 1960s, he quickly became a household name thanks to his appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, Laugh-In, and other popular television programs.
His persona was whimsical, odd, and childlike—yet behind the scenes, Tiny Tim was a deeply emotional, romantic, and sometimes fragile individual. He longed for companionship and dreamed of traditional married life, even as fame and eccentricity made real relationships difficult. His three marriages each reveal a different chapter of his life and personality.
Tiny Tim’s First Wife: Miss Vicki (Victoria Mae Budinger)
Tiny Tim’s first and most famous marriage was to Victoria Mae Budinger, widely known as Miss Vicki. Their relationship remains one of the most iconic celebrity stories of the 1960s due to its public visibility and sheer uniqueness.
How They Met
Tiny Tim met Miss Vicki when she was just 17 years old. Despite their age difference, he was instantly captivated by her sweetness and appearance. Their courtship was brief, fueled by Tiny Tim’s desire for romance and companionship.
The Famous Televised Wedding
On December 17, 1969, Tiny Tim and Miss Vicki married on The Tonight Show. The ceremony aired live and was watched by between 40 and 45 million viewers—making it one of the most-watched entertainment broadcasts of its time. Tiny Tim arrived holding his ukulele, dressed in his trademark suit, while Miss Vicki wore a traditional lace wedding gown.
The spectacle reflected Tiny Tim’s fascination with old-fashioned showmanship, but it also came with immense pressure. Their relationship instantly became tabloid material, and the young couple struggled under the weight of public scrutiny.
Their Daughter and Later Years
The couple welcomed a daughter, Tulip Victoria, in 1971. However, the marriage quickly deteriorated. Tiny Tim’s frequent touring, emotional struggles, and the relentless media spotlight strained the relationship. The couple separated several times before officially divorcing in 1977.
Despite the challenges, Miss Vicki remained an unforgettable part of Tiny Tim’s story. Their wedding remains a cultural landmark—a symbol of the wild, experimental era of late 1960s entertainment.
Tiny Tim’s Second Wife: “Miss Jan” (Jan Alweiss)
After several years of bachelorhood, Tiny Tim married again in 1984, this time to Jan Alweiss, often referred to as Miss Jan. Unlike his first marriage, this union was largely private, reflecting Tiny Tim’s attempt to seek stability after years in the public eye.
Their Quiet, Private Wedding
Tiny Tim and Miss Jan exchanged vows in a modest, traditional ceremony, far removed from the extravagance of the Carson wedding. This choice symbolized Tiny Tim’s shift toward a more grounded personal life.
Challenges in Their Relationship
Despite the quieter beginning, their marriage faced ongoing difficulties. Tiny Tim’s finances were inconsistent during this period, and the pressures of his unpredictable career caused strain. The couple separated multiple times, eventually divorcing in 1995.
While the marriage didn’t last long, Miss Jan played an important role in Tiny Tim’s middle years and provided companionship during a transitional stage in his life.
Tiny Tim’s Third Wife: Susan Marie Gardner (“Miss Sue”)
Tiny Tim’s final marriage was to Susan Marie Gardner, affectionately known as Miss Sue. Their union marked a more mature, heartfelt chapter in his romantic life.
How They Met
Susan, a dedicated fan and supporter of Tiny Tim, first met him through the local music community. Their friendship developed naturally, rooted in admiration and shared values. Over time, this bond grew into love.
Their Marriage and Deep Connection
Tiny Tim and Miss Sue married on August 18, 1995. Many who knew Tiny Tim say that Miss Sue brought him peace, stability, and genuine companionship during his later years. She embraced not just his eccentricities but also his vulnerabilities.
Their marriage became the emotional anchor for Tiny Tim’s final stage of life, and Miss Sue supported him through ongoing health struggles.
Tiny Tim’s Final Moments
Tiny Tim suffered a heart attack while performing at a benefit concert in November 1996. Miss Sue was with him at the time, holding him as he collapsed. He passed away shortly afterward at the age of 64.
Their love story, though brief, was profound. Miss Sue remained devoted to preserving Tiny Tim’s memory and continues to speak fondly of the love they shared.
Featured Image Source: imdb.com
