Linda Thompson

Linda Thompson – Life, Career, and Creative Legacy

Explore the life of Linda Diane Thompson (born May 23, 1950) — American actress, beauty queen, and celebrated songwriter. From her early pageant days, acting roles, high-profile relationships, to penning unforgettable songs like “I Have Nothing”, her story blends glamour, creativity, and reinvention.

Introduction

Linda Thompson is an American multi-talented figure: a former actress, beauty queen, and accomplished lyricist. Though many may first recognize her from her roles in TV shows or her high-profile relationships, her lasting influence lies in her songwriting contributions to major films and artists. Her transition from screen presence to behind-the-scenes creator reflects a career of adaptability, persistence, and artistry.

Early Life and Background

Linda Diane Thompson was born on May 23, 1950 in Memphis, Tennessee.

She attended Kingsbury High School, where she was Homecoming Queen. English and Drama at Memphis State University.

From a young age, Thompson entered beauty pageants. She won titles such as Miss Shelby County (1969), Miss Mid-South Fair, Miss Liberty Bowl, and multiple others. Miss Tennessee Universe.

Acting Career

Thompson’s entry into entertainment began through her pageant visibility and transition into television in the 1970s.

• She became a regular on the variety show Hee Haw, often appearing as one of the “Hee Haw Honeys.”

• She appeared in small roles on a variety of TV series including CHiPs, Starsky & Hutch, Vega$, Fantasy Island, The Fall Guy, Beverly Hills, 90210, among others.

• Thompson starred in television pilots such as Mars Base One and Two for Two.

• Her film credits include Three on a Meathook (1972), Rabbit Test (1978), and Original Intent (1991). The Bodyguard (1992).

Over time, Thompson’s focus shifted increasingly toward musical collaboration and songwriting, and her acting appearances diminished.

Songwriting & Musical Work

Thompson’s most enduring impact rests in her work as a lyricist and collaborator with major composers and artists.

• She co-wrote songs with David Foster, Richard Marx, Steve Dorff, Andreas Carlsson, among others.

• Among her most recognized songs is “I Have Nothing”, written for The Bodyguard (1992). That song garnered nominations for both the Academy Award for Best Song and the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture or Television.

• She also co-wrote “No Explanation” (for Pretty Woman), “Grown-Up Christmas List”, and worked on songs for Celine Dion (Miracle) and Backstreet Boys (Drowning) among others.

• In 1994, she won a BMI Film & TV Award for the song I Have Nothing, for Most Performed Song from a Film.

• In 2003, she and Foster won an Emmy for “Aren’t They All Our Children” from The Concert for World Children’s Day.

Her lyric work allowed her to move from on-camera roles into a creative domain where her voice—and words—would reach global audiences.

Personal Life & Relationships

Linda Thompson’s personal life has been both public and complex:

• Shortly after being crowned in pageants, she met Elvis Presley in July 1972. They lived together for about 3½ years until late 1976.

• In January 1981, she married Bruce Jenner (later Caitlyn Jenner). They had two sons together: Brandon and Brody Jenner.

• In June 1991, she married David Foster, the music producer and composer collaborator. They divorced in 2005.

• In 2016, she published her memoir, A Little Thing Called Life.

She currently lives in Malibu, California and continues to write, though she lives more privately.

Personality, Style & Legacy

Linda Thompson’s career demonstrates versatility, determination, and reinvention.

• Early on, she leveraged beauty pageants and on-screen roles to gain public visibility and build her presence in entertainment.

• Over time, she shifted her creative energy from acting to songwriting, showing a willingness to transition from performer to creator.

• Her lyrics combine emotional resonance and accessibility; I Have Nothing remains a staple of contemporary pop balladry.

• Her life intersected with major cultural figures: Elvis Presley, Bruce/Caitlyn Jenner, and David Foster. While these relationships brought attention, Thompson built a legacy beyond association.

• In her memoir and interviews, she has reflected on love, transformation, and artistic purpose with grace and candor.