Last Updated on: 27th May 2025, 04:01 pm
Who is Mary Lou Retton? Biography, Wiki
Mary Lou Retton leapt into history as America’s gymnastics icon, winning hearts with her gold-medal triumph at the 1984 Olympics. Beyond the medals, her story combines resilience, family, and unexpected challenges. From Olympic glory to health battles and personal hurdles, here’s an intimate look at her life.
Mary Lou Retton Age
Born on January 24, 1968, in Fairmont, WV, the age of Mary Lou Retton is 57 years old as of 2025. Her birth sign, Aquarius, mirrors her trailblazing spirit.
Short Bio And Some Quick Facts
| Complete Real Name | Mary Lou Retton |
| Nickname | America’s Sweetheart |
| DOB | January 24, 1968 |
| Age | 57 years |
| Place of Birth | Fairmont, West Virginia, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
| Father | Ronnie Retton |
| Mother | Lois Retton |
| Siblings | 4 (Sharie, Jerry, Donnie, Ronnie Jr.) |
| Education | Graduation |
| Institute | University of Texas at Austin |
| Occupation | Retired Gymnast, Actress, TV Producer |
| Olympic Medals | 1 Gold, 2 Silver, 2 Bronze (1984) |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Husband | Shannon Kelley (d.2018) |
| Daughters | Shayla, McKenna, Skyla, Emma |
| Health Update | Recovering from pneumonia, uses oxygen |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Italian, Slovak) |
| Religion | Catholic |
| Height | 4 feet 9 inches |
| Weight | 42 kg |
| Body measurements |
32-24-33 inches |
| Eye color | Black |
| Hair color | Brown |
| Net Worth (As of 2025) | Approximately $2 million |
| Category | Biography |
Education
Retton attended Fairmont Senior High School but prioritized gymnastics early, training under coaches Béla and Márta Károlyi in Houston. She briefly studied at the University of Texas at Austin before Olympic commitments took center stage.
Mary Lou Retton Family
Raised in a tight-knit West Virginia family, Retton is the daughter of Ronnie and Lois Retton and has four siblings: Sharie, Jerry, Donnie, and Ronnie Jr. Their encouragement fueled her rise from local gyms to global podiums.
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Mary Lou Retton Husband
Retton married Shannon Kelley, a former University of Texas quarterback, in 1990. After 27 years of marriage, they divorced in 2018 but remain committed co-parents to their four daughters.
Children
Retton’s four daughters with Shannon Kelley are:
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Shayla Kelley (b. 1995)
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McKenna Kelley (b. 1997) – LSU gymnast
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Skyla Kelley (b. 2000)
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Emma Kelley (b. 2002)
In 2024, Skyla made Retton a grandmother, nicknaming her “LouLou.”
Career
The gymnastics career of Retton exploded under the Károlyis’ mentorship. At the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, she scored two perfect 10s, clinching gold in the all-around—a first for an American woman—plus four more medals. Post-retirement, she became a Wheaties box star, motivational speaker, and TV personality (Dancing with the Stars, Scrooged).
What disease does Mary Lou Retton have?
In late 2023, Retton battled rare pneumonia, spending a month in the ICU reliant on a ventilator. Scarred lungs left her dependent on oxygen, and she admitted to struggling mentally: “I’ve aged 50 years.” Her daughters’ fundraiser and faith fueled her recovery.
Where Is Mary Lou Retton Now?
Retton lives in Houston, Texas, focusing on family and health advocacy. She mentors young gymnasts and champions fitness initiatives, though daily tasks like laundry remain taxing.
Legal Challenges
In May 2024, Retton was arrested for DUI in West Virginia, posting a $1,500 bond. The incident sparked public concern, contrasting her “America’s Sweetheart” image.
Religion
Raised Catholic, Retton credits her faith for strength during crises, including her 2023 health battle. She often emphasizes prayer and gratitude in interviews.
Ethnicity and Nationality
Mary Lou Retton is of Italian and Slovak descent and holds American nationality. Her 1984 wins symbolized a breakthrough for U.S. gymnastics during the Cold War era.
Mary Lou Retton Height and Weight
At 4’9” (145 cm / 1.45 m) and 93 lbs (42 kg) during her peak, Retton’s compact build powered her iconic vaults and flips. Critics often scrutinized her physique, but she redefined strength in the sport.
Body Measurements
The body measurements of Mary Lou Retton are 32-24-33 inches that means her bust is 32”, waist is 24” and hips are 33” and her muscular legs and low center of gravity became her trademark.
Mary Lou Retton Net Worth
The net worth of Mary Lou Retton is estimated at $2 million, bolstered by endorsements (Wheaties, Energizer), speaking performances, and media roles. A 2023 health crisis strained finances, prompting a $459K crowdfunding effort.
Legacy and Impact
Retton’s 1984 gold inspired stars like Simone Biles. Despite controversies—like lobbying against a sexual abuse bill—she remains a gymnastics ambassador. Her story, marked by triumph and vulnerability, resonates beyond the mat.
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Mary Lou Retton’s Social Media Handles
All the mentioned below are the social media handles of the Retired Gymnast, Actress and TV Producer Mary Lou Retton:
| Homepage | www.theeducationisthub.com |
| www.instagram.com/marylouretton | |
| www.facebook.com/marylourettonofficial | |
| X (Formerly Twitter) | Update Soon |
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