For anyone who grew up watching Entertainment Tonight, the name Mary Hart instantly brings back memories of her signature voice, bright personality, and effortless way of connecting viewers with Hollywood. Even now, she continues to draw attention — not only for her iconic career, but also for her long-lasting marriage.
A perfect example came during the marathon 18-inning Dodgers vs. Blue Jays World Series game, where Mary and her husband, Burt Sugarman, watched nearly the entire contest before finally heading home together. That small moment reflected something bigger: a partnership more than 35 years strong.
Here’s a fresh, clear look at Mary Hart’s husband, their relationship, their shared passions, and the life they’ve built.
Who Is Mary Hart’s Husband?
Mary Hart is married to Burt Sugarman, full name Burton Roy Sugarman, a veteran producer known for shaping major moments in American television. Before Burt, Mary was married to Terry Hart (1971–1979), but it’s Burt who became her lifelong partner.
Mary and Burt married on April 8, 1989, exchanging vows aboard a yacht in a private ceremony meant to focus on love rather than spectacle. Since then, they’ve appeared side by side at sporting events, charity functions, and quiet outings, always showing the same easy connection.
Mary Hart & Burt Sugarman Age Difference
The couple’s age gap is 11–12 years, depending on the birthday:
- Mary Hart: Born November 8, 1950 — turned 74 in 2024
- Burt Sugarman: Born January 4, 1939 — turned 86 in 2025
Burt is the older of the two.
Their difference in age has never been a point of tension; rather, it brings balance. Burt brings decades of perspective from the early days of television, while Mary brings the energy and insight of someone who shaped modern entertainment news. The mix adds depth to their conversations, decisions, and shared interests.
Relationship Timeline: Mary Hart & Burt Sugarman
Mary Hart’s first marriage ended in the late 1970s, leaving her free to pursue the opportunities that would eventually make her a national figure. She met Burt in Los Angeles in the mid-1980s through entertainment industry circles, and they connected quickly.
After several years of dating:
- They married on April 8, 1989
- Their son, Alec Jay Sugarman, was born in 1991
- The family has remained close-knit ever since
Their relationship has always been marked by privacy, respect, and consistency.
What Does Burt Sugarman Do?
Burt Sugarman is a well-known film and TV producer, especially celebrated for creating The Midnight Special. This groundbreaking NBC late-night program ran from 1972 to 1981 and changed music television by showcasing live performances from artists like Aerosmith, Earth, Wind & Fire, Fleetwood Mac, and many more.
He also produced:
- Children of a Lesser God (1986), an award-winning drama
- Several game shows and specials
- Additional projects across genres
While he stepped back from producing years ago, his influence remains a part of TV history.
Is Burt Sugarman Still Alive?
Yes.
As of 2025, Burt Sugarman is alive, active, and present in Mary’s life. At 86, he continues to attend Dodgers games, enjoy family time, and engage in travel and hobbies. There have been no reports of major health issues.
Burt Sugarman’s Net Worth
Burt Sugarman’s estimated net worth is around $100 million, accumulated from successful television ventures, film productions, and long-term syndication earnings from The Midnight Special. He also made profitable real-estate investments.
Mary Hart has earned millions through:
- Her long ET hosting contract
- Voiceover projects
- Commercial appearances
- Other television work
Together, they have substantial, well-managed financial resources and maintain homes in California and on a serene Montana ranch.
Mary Hart & the Dodgers: A Shared Passion
Baseball — especially the Los Angeles Dodgers — is one of Mary and Burt’s clearest shared loves. Their familiar seats near home plate make them easy to spot during broadcasts.
They show up consistently, enjoy long games without complaint, and cheer with the enthusiasm of lifelong fans. For them, baseball is less about celebrity presence and more about enjoying time together.
How Many Children Does Mary Hart Have?
Mary and Burt share one child, their son:
- Alec Jay Sugarman, born in December 1991
Alec was raised largely outside the Hollywood spotlight, focusing on school and private life. Today he is an adult with his own career, occasionally appearing with his parents for holidays and special moments.
Mary has often described motherhood as the role that grounded her most, even during the height of her TV career.
Life at Home: How Mary and Burt Live Today
The couple divides their time between:
- Los Angeles, where they enjoy city life and Dodgers games
- Montana, where they own a peaceful ranch
Montana provides space for gardening, reading, and quiet walks. In California, they enjoy relaxed mornings with coffee, small gatherings with close friends, and simple routines that revolve around comfort rather than celebrity flash.
Their Approach to Philanthropy
Mary and Burt support several charitable causes, focusing on:
- Neurological research
- Arts programs
- Animal welfare initiatives
Much of their giving is low-profile and personal. Mary’s work supporting neurological disease research is inspired by her friendship with Annette Funicello, who publicly battled multiple sclerosis.
Mary Hart’s Occasional Attendance at Trump Events
Mary Hart has attended a few social events connected to Donald Trump during his business and political years. These were typically broad entertainment gatherings rather than political endorsements. Burt joined her at some of them, treating them as networking occasions.
The couple generally avoids political statements and prefers to focus on family, sports, and community life.
A Family Tradition: Baseball and Bonding
Dodgers fandom is a family affair. Even as adults, Mary, Burt, and Alec attend games together when they can. They discuss stats, recall historic plays, and share traditions that go back decades.
Baseball brings them together through seasons of change.
Conclusion
Burt Sugarman has been the quiet, steady presence beside Mary Hart for more than three decades — a producer who made his mark on television, and a partner who built a warm, grounded life with her. Their 11-year age difference has never defined their relationship; what defines it is mutual respect, shared joy, and enduring commitment.
From front-row Dodgers seats to peaceful Montana nights, Mary and Burt show that lasting love doesn’t depend on public display — it thrives in everyday moments, shared passions, and the kind of companionship that withstands time.