Celebrity

June Baranco: Artist, Entrepreneur & Bryant Gumbel’s Former Partne

Published

1 month ago

October 27, 2025

Emily

June Baranco is a name that resonates with grace, creativity, and quiet resilience. While many may remember her as the former wife of TV journalist Bryant Gumbel, her legacy goes far beyond that association. June has carved her own path as a talented artist and successful entrepreneur. Her life, marked by dedication to her craft, a quiet strength in the face of adversity, and a deep commitment to her family, is a story worth telling.

In this article, we will explore June Baranco’s life, from her early years in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to her career as a visual artist and milliner. We will dive into her personal life, including her marriage to Bryant Gumbel, her entrepreneurial journey with Geaux Chapeaux, and the lessons we can learn from her experiences.

Quick Bio

Personal Detail	Information
Full Name	June Carlyn Baranco
Date of Birth	June 22, 1948
Place of Birth	Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Education	BFA from Louisiana State University, studied at Parsons, Art Students League, Pierce College
Profession	Visual artist, Milliner (Hat maker)
Spouse	Bryant Gumbel (married 1973, divorced 2001)
Children	Two: Bradley Christopher Gumbel, Jillian Beth Gumbel
Current Residence	New York City area
Public Presence	Private, no social media or publicity
Business	Founder of Geaux Chapeaux (handcrafted hats)
Art Memberships	Salmagundi Club, Portrait Society of America, Artist Fellowship of New York

Early Life and Background

June Baranco was born on June 22, 1948, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, into a family that valued education, hard work, and creativity. Growing up in the South, June’s love for art was nurtured from an early age. She was always drawn to creative expression, whether it was sketching, painting, or even designing clothes. Her Southern upbringing influenced her artistic journey, blending deep cultural values with an appreciation for the arts.

Her formative years in Baton Rouge helped June develop a strong sense of discipline and creativity, qualities that would later define her as both an artist and a businesswoman. This period in her life laid the foundation for the remarkable journey that would follow.

Current Age and Physical Appearance

As of 2025, June Baranco is 77 years old. While she has kept a relatively low public profile in recent years, her appearance in earlier photographs shows a graceful and composed woman. June has always carried herself with quiet dignity, and her classic, elegant style continues to define her.

Though much of her life remains private, her physical appearance reflects the poise and strength that have characterized her journey, from her early years as an aspiring artist to her current role as a mentor and entrepreneur.

Education and Artistic Training

June Baranco’s passion for art led her to pursue formal training. She began her studies at New York’s prestigious High School of Art and Design, which helped refine her creative skills. From there, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree from Louisiana State University, solidifying her foundation in art.

June’s artistic education didn’t stop there. To further hone her craft, she studied at renowned institutions such as Parsons School of Design and the Art Students League of New York. She also attended Pierce College in California. These experiences gave her exposure to various artistic techniques and mediums, including oil painting, pastels, watercolors, and woodcut prints.

During her studies, June worked under prominent artists such as Daniel Greene and Nelson Shanks, gaining insight into different artistic styles and techniques. This education helped her develop a deep understanding of realism and expressive art, which has become a hallmark of her work.

Meeting Bryant Gumbel

In the late 1960s, when June was working as a Delta flight attendant, she met Bryant Gumbel, a rising star in the world of journalism. Their connection was immediate, and the couple soon formed a strong bond. In 1973, June and Bryant married, beginning a chapter in their lives that would see both of them rise to prominence in their respective fields.

At the time of their marriage, Bryant was on the cusp of a successful career in television, which would ultimately lead to his status as a respected journalist. While Bryant’s fame grew, June chose to focus on her family and her art, supporting her husband’s career while also nurturing her creative passions.

Who is Bryant Gumbel?

Bryant Gumbel is a distinguished American television journalist, born on September 29, 1948. He gained widespread recognition as a co-host of NBC’s Today Show and later as the host of HBO’s Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel. Known for his in-depth interviews and commitment to tackling important social issues, Bryant earned a reputation as a trusted figure in broadcast journalism.

Throughout his career, Bryant became known for his professionalism, integrity, and ability to engage with complex topics. His success in the field of journalism made him a household name, but it also came with its share of public scrutiny and challenges, including the impact on his personal life and relationships.

Marriage to Bryant Gumbel and Family Life

June and Bryant Gumbel’s marriage was a prominent one, as both individuals achieved significant success in their respective fields. The couple had two children: Bradley Christopher and Jillian Beth. While Bryant’s public career flourished, June focused on being a supportive wife and dedicated mother.

In their early years together, June balanced the demands of family life with her own artistic endeavors. She painted and created art when she could, often finding solace in her creative work amidst the demands of raising children and supporting Bryant’s career.

Challenges Within the Marriage

Despite their apparent success, June’s marriage to Bryant was not without its challenges. June faced significant emotional struggles, including dealing with her husband’s infidelities and growing emotional distance. During this time, Bryant’s fame and success left June to manage much of the family’s day-to-day affairs.

One of the challenges June faced was financial strain. Despite Bryant’s wealth, June was given a modest allowance, which created tension and forced her to rely on her own savings for financial independence. This difficult period ultimately led to June making the decision to leave the marriage.

Divorce and Legal Battle

In 2001, June Baranco filed for divorce from Bryant Gumbel, and their legal battle was both public and contentious. The high-profile divorce involved issues related to asset distribution, with Bryant attempting to move assets to avoid sharing them. However, the court ruled in June’s favor, awarding her a fair share of the couple’s estate, including properties in Westchester and New York’s Upper East Side.

This divorce was a significant turning point for June, allowing her to reclaim her personal autonomy, financial stability, and peace of mind. It also marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life, one focused on her art, healing, and reinvention.

Life After Divorce: Art, Healing, and Reinvention

After her divorce, June Baranco rediscovered her artistic passion, channeling her emotions into her work. She created a woodcut for Boston’s African Meeting House and an art installation for North General Hospital in Harlem, demonstrating her commitment to community and culture.

Her art became a tool for healing, as June poured her personal experiences and emotions into her creations. She also chose to live a private life, distancing herself from media attention and focusing on her art and family.

Geaux Chapeaux: June Baranco’s Entrepreneurial Venture

In 2011, June Baranco embarked on a new entrepreneurial journey with the creation of Geaux Chapeaux, a handcrafted hat business. Inspired by her daughter’s wedding, where she found the available hats to be either too expensive or lacking in style, June began designing and creating her own hats.

Geaux Chapeaux blends Southern charm with vintage elegance, offering unique, handcrafted hats made from carefully selected vintage fabrics and trims. Drawing on her Louisiana roots, June creates timeless pieces that exude both style and substance.

Private Life, Mentorship, and Artistic Community Involvement

Despite her entrepreneurial success, June has chosen to keep her personal life private. She stays away from social media and avoids the public spotlight, preferring to focus on her work and family.

June is also deeply involved in the artistic community. She is an active member of organizations like the Salmagundi Club, the Portrait Society of America, and the Artist Fellowship of New York. Through these groups, she mentors young artists, offering workshops and guidance based on her years of experience in the art world.

Artistic Style and Legacy

June Baranco’s artistic style is rooted in realism. Her work captures both the physical details and emotional depth of her subjects. She works with various mediums, including oil painting, pastels, watercolors, and woodcuts, allowing her to express a wide range of emotions and stories.

Her work often explores themes related to community, heritage, and personal experience. June’s ability to translate her personal journey into her art has left a lasting legacy, inspiring others to embrace their own creative potential.

Net Worth and Financial Overview

While June Baranco has maintained a private financial profile, her net worth is estimated to have increased significantly after her divorce settlement. In addition to receiving valuable properties, she also generates income from her art and Geaux Chapeaux business.

June’s success is a testament to her creative ability, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Though she has never sought fame or fortune, her work and business ventures have provided her with both financial independence and personal fulfillment.

Lessons from June Baranco’s Life

June Baranco’s life teaches us many valuable lessons. Her story emphasizes the importance of quiet resilience, staying true to oneself, and finding personal strength through creativity. Even in the face of personal hardship, June chose to reclaim her identity, focusing on what truly matters: art, family, and personal integrity.

Her journey also reminds us that success is not defined by public recognition but by the meaningful work we do and the relationships we nurture.

Conclusion

June Baranco’s life is a story of creativity, resilience, and authenticity. From her early years in Baton Rouge to her successful ventures as an artist and entrepreneur, June has shown the world how to live with grace and dignity. Her legacy is one of personal empowerment, proving that true success comes from living in alignment with your values and passions.

FAQs

Who is June Baranco? June Baranco is a talented visual artist, milliner, and entrepreneur. She is also known for her former marriage to TV journalist Bryant Gumbel.
When and where was June Baranco born? June Baranco was born on June 22, 1948, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
What kind of art does June Baranco create? June specializes in realism, using oil paints, pastels, watercolors, and woodcuts. Her work often focuses on themes of community and personal experience.
How many children does June Baranco have? She has two children: Bradley Christopher Gumbel and Jillian Beth Gumbel.
What is Geaux Chapeaux? Geaux Chapeaux is June Baranco’s handcrafted hat business, offering unique, vintage-inspired hats made from high-quality fabrics.
Did June Baranco remarry after divorcing Bryant Gumbel? No, June has remained single after her divorce, focusing on her art, family, and community involvement.
Where does June Baranco live now? June Baranco lives in the New York City area, maintaining a private life focused on her creative pursuits.
What organizations is June Baranco affiliated with? She is a member of the Salmagundi Club, the Portrait Society of America, and the Artist Fellowship of New York.