Robert Wagner and Jill St. John’s Love Story: From Tragedy to Enduring Relationship

The Heartbreaking Beginning

The story of Jill St. John, the star of “Diamonds are Forever,” and actor Robert Wagner is one that began under tragic circumstances.

It was November 29, 1981, when Robert's wife, Natalie Wood, accidentally fell from their yacht off the coast of Santa Catalina Island and drowned.

A Message of Condolence

Having known Robert since their time as contract players at Fox in the 1950s, Jill reached out to him after the tragic incident.

She sent flowers and a heartfelt note of condolence, showing her support during this difficult time.

A Dinner Party Reunion

Two months later, fate brought them together again at a dinner party.

Robert, who had withdrawn from social gatherings after Natalie's death, attended this particular event.

It was here that their connection reignited, as Jill's friend Jayne Smith recalled, “R.J. just started calling.

They started dating and have been ever since.

She's really in love.”

Public Appearances and Romance

Their relationship blossomed as they were spotted together more frequently in public.

In June 1982, Robert went to Vermont for a film shoot, and Jill accompanied him.

They were seen holding hands and enjoying each other's company while window-shopping in Aspen and later embarked on a romantic Hawaiian vacation.

Hints of Marriage

The seriousness of their relationship became evident when Jill joined Robert at his daughter Kate's graduation from Beverly Hills High.

Speculation about marriage arose, but Robert denied any wedding plans.

Jill, on the other hand, discreetly remained silent about their relationship, emphasizing the trust and understanding they shared.

Personal Happiness Over Career

Jill returned to Beverly Hills after a decade-long hiatus in Aspen, aiming to revive her acting career.

While her relationship with Robert brought attention to her, she prioritized personal happiness over professional success.

She stated, “I want my films to be noticed, but I believe that personal happiness is still greater than any career.”

Tying the Knot

Ultimately, their happiness led to marriage.

In 1990, Robert and Jill exchanged vows during a private ceremony at his home.

Robert's daughter Katherine served as the maid of honor, and both sides of the family attended the intimate event.

Lingering Questions and Allegations

However, the tragic circumstances surrounding Natalie Wood's drowning continued to haunt Robert.

Over the years, rumors circulated, suggesting his involvement in her death.

In October 2018, the topic resurfaced when the boat's captain, Dennis Davern, made new allegations.

He claimed that Robert had bodyguards watch him closely and forced him to lie about what happened on that fateful night.

A Controversial Account

Dennis alleged that he was instructed on a specific story regarding Natalie's disappearance.

According to him, she had gone outside her stateroom to address a noisy dinghy, slipped, and fallen into the water.

Robert maintained his innocence, refuting Dennis's claims and maintaining that Natalie's death was accidental.

Insights from Natalie Wood's Sister

Adding to the ongoing discussions, Natalie's sister, Lana, spoke out about the days leading up to her sister's death.

During an interview, she confidently declared that she knows “exactly what happened” and how Natalie died during her final hours.

While Robert Wagner and Jill St. John's love story endured despite the tragedy that initially brought them together, questions and allegations surrounding Natalie Wood's death continue to linger, leaving a mark on their lives.