Early Life and Family Background

Rohan Anthony Marley was born on May 19, 1972, in Kingston, Jamaica. At the time of his birth, his father, Bob Marley, was married to Rita Marley. Rohan spent his early years in Kingston and went to live with Rita from the age of four. Following Bob Marley’s death from cancer in Miami in 1981, Rohan continued to live with family members in Jamaica.

Education and Football Career

Marley attended Miami Palmetto Senior High School before going on to play college football at the University of Miami. As a linebacker, he was part of a talented team that included future NFL stars such as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Warren Sapp, and Ray Lewis. His football career reflected a strong defensive presence, although he did not pursue a long-term career in the NFL.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

After his football career, Rohan Marley became involved in various business pursuits, particularly in the organic and sustainable living sectors. He co-founded Marley Coffee, a certified organic coffee company inspired by his family's commitment to natural lifestyles and his father's love of coffee farming in Jamaica. Under his leadership, the company gained international recognition for promoting sustainable farming practices and fair trade principles.

Family and Personal Life

While still a sophomore in college, Rohan Marley married Geraldine Khawly on March 18, 1993. Together, they had two children: a daughter named Eden and a son, Nico Marley. Nico followed in his father's athletic footsteps, playing as a linebacker at Tulane University. Though he was not drafted by an NFL team in 2017, he briefly signed with the Washington Redskins as an undrafted free agent.

In 1996, Marley began a long-term relationship with Grammy-winning artist Lauryn Hill. The two had five children together during their time as a couple. Although they primarily lived apart, their relationship lasted until 2009. In 2013, Marley took temporary custody of their children while Hill served a three-month sentence for tax evasion.