To millions of fans, Robin Gibb was one of the unmistakable voices behind the Bee Gees. Behind the music, however, his personal life was far more complicated than many listeners realized.
Robin married artist and writer Dwina Murphy in 1985, and the couple remained married until his death in 2012. Their relationship was unconventional, and both spoke publicly over the years about giving each other considerable freedom.
But one relationship eventually changed their family forever.
Robin became involved with Claire Yang, who worked as the family’s housekeeper. Their relationship reportedly continued for years, and in 2008 Claire gave birth to Robin’s daughter, Snow Robin Gibb.
The revelation reportedly caused serious tension at home. Yet Robin and Dwina did not divorce. Despite everything that had happened, they remained together, and Dwina was at Robin’s side during his final illness.
Robin’s family story was already complicated. He also had Spencer and Melissa from his first marriage to Molly Hullis and a son, Robin-John, with Dwina.
Robin died on May 20, 2012, at 62.
For generations who knew him through songs such as Massachusetts, I Started a Joke and How Deep Is Your Love, the private story behind that famous voice revealed a very different side of his life.
The Bee Gees made Robin Gibb a legend—but away from the stage, his life was considerably more complicated than the music ever suggested.
For Facebook, I’d slightly change the title because “for 30 years” and “no one knew” aren’t supported by the available reporting:
“Robin Gibb Lived a Life Few Bee Gees Fans Knew About — Then a Family Secret Changed Everything”