Ricki Pamela Lake is an Emmy Award-winning actress, television host, and producer. She gained widespread recognition for her work in television, most notably for hosting her eponymous daytime talk show, "The Ricki Lake Show," which aired from 1993 to 2004. Known for her approachable demeanor and candid interviews, Lake became a household name through her work in both daytime television and film.
In 1994, Lake married Rob Sussman, a bartender, in a ceremony held in Las Vegas. The couple went on to have two sons together. Despite their marital union, their relationship experienced challenges and disagreements, particularly as Lake's career flourished. It was reported that differences in financial success and career trajectory created friction in the marriage.
Sussman expressed discomfort with public perceptions that he was financially dependent on Lake. He stated that he worked hard and did not want to be seen as relying on his wife’s success. Although Lake initially responded optimistically, noting her belief that he would eventually support her, the couple ultimately separated in 2003. Lake filed for divorce in 2005, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason for the split.
The couple’s relationship reportedly grew more strained after moving into a $6.5 million mansion. According to sources, Sussman found the increased visibility and Lake’s professional success uncomfortable, preferring not to be known as "Mr. Ricki Lake." Though no confirmed reports of infidelity surfaced on either side, the divorce proceedings were marked as emotionally difficult though financially straightforward. A prenuptial agreement was in place, and Lake was granted custody of their children. Sussman was said to be against receiving financial support post-divorce and declined to seek a financial settlement, making the legal process smoother despite personal tensions.
Lake met jewelry designer Christian Evans in 2009, several years after her marriage to Sussman had ended. The two got engaged in 2011 and were married in 2012. Lake publicly expressed how Evans changed her views on relationships and remarriage, stating that she had not expected to fall in love again after her first marriage ended. She described feeling relaxed and genuinely happy about the union.
Evans maintained a low public profile and refrained from speaking with the media about his personal life or his relationship with Lake. Likewise, Lake kept her second marriage largely private, choosing not to make frequent public comments about their life together.
In interviews, Lake has been open about her personal challenges, including a statement that she experienced abuse during her childhood—though she has opted not to create a public discourse around those experiences. She also faced other setbacks, such as her home being destroyed by fire, but has spoken about how these events led her to reevaluate her priorities and move forward with resilience.
Reflecting on her relationship with Evans, Lake once said she appreciated being with a partner who was not threatened by her fame or success. She described Evans as supportive and emotionally secure, qualities she valued deeply in contrast to her previous relationship difficulties.
| Description: | Daytime tabloid talk show |
| Net Worth 2021: | 16 million |
