Paul Anka, the iconic singer-songwriter, is embracing single life at the age of 84, finding joy and peace in his solitude. In a candid interview with PEOPLE, Anka shared his thoughts on marriage and relationships, explaining why he does not wish to remarry after three previous unions.
Having experienced the ups and downs of marriage, Anka reflects on his past with a sense of gratitude while firmly choosing to prioritize his independence. He stated, “I’ve done the married thing. I’ll take all the good from it, some of the bad… I love my solitude, and it’s an amazing place to be in, having peace of mind and growing older gracefully.”
Anka’s marital history includes a long union with model Anne de Zogheb, which lasted from 1963 until their divorce in 2001. The couple had five daughters together. His later marriages included a two-year stint with Anna Åberg, which brought the birth of his son, Ethan, now 20. Anka recently overcame a court battle to gain full custody of Ethan. His third marriage was to Lisa Pemberton, which ended in 2020.
The legendary musician is clear about his stance on remarriage. “I would never get married again. Why? Done it,” he declared. He finds fulfillment in his family, with nine grandchildren and a rewarding career. Anka fondly remembers his late wife, describing her as a “great woman” and acknowledging the challenges that come with marrying young, especially while navigating a demanding career in the music industry.
Reflecting on the past, he admits that being away from home over 200 days a year strained his relationships, saying, “It’s not easy for anyone in an occupation that takes them away from their home.” Nonetheless, he emphasizes the importance of quality time spent with family, despite the difficulties of his busy schedule.
With a new album titled “Inspirations of Life and Love” set to release on February 13, Anka shows no signs of slowing down. He has a tour planned for March and expresses his reluctance to retire. “I know what retirement is. I don’t want to retire… If you can’t have fun in life or in a job that you’re doing, don’t do it,” he remarked.
Paul Anka’s decision to embrace singlehood and dedication to his craft serves as a testament to his passion for life, music, and family, as he continues to inspire others with his talent and outlook.