Paul Anka, the Canadian-American singer, songwriter, and actor, has captivated audiences around the world for more than seven decades. With timeless hits like “Diana” and “Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” Anka rose to fame in the 1950s as a clean-cut teen idol and went on to become one of the most respected entertainers of his generation. Now at 83, he continues to perform and connect with fans while enjoying a renewed sense of happiness in his personal life.
A Legendary Start in Music
Born on July 30, 1941, in Ottawa, Ontario, Paul Anka launched his music career as a teenager. At just 16 years old, he wrote and released the song “Diana,” which became one of the best-selling singles of its time. The track propelled Anka into international stardom and established his reputation as a young star with both vocal talent and songwriting ability.
Unlike many artists of the time, Anka was involved in all aspects of his music—from writing to arranging—and his early work laid the foundation for a long-lasting career. According to Billboard, “Diana” sold millions of copies and marked the beginning of Anka’s status as a cultural icon.
Collaborations with Music Legends
Anka’s influence extended beyond his own chart-toppers. He wrote the English lyrics to Frank Sinatra’s signature song “My Way” and penned hits for other major performers, including Tom Jones and Michael Jackson. As a songwriter, his catalog showcases remarkable versatility and a deep understanding of pop music trends across generations.
His association with the Rat Pack—particularly Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin—further solidified his place among the greats. In interviews with AARP and Business Jet Traveler, Anka recalled these friendships fondly, acknowledging their influence while choosing to take a healthier and more disciplined path.
Personal Life and Family
In 1963, Paul Anka married Anne de Zogheb, a model and daughter of a Lebanese diplomat. The couple had five daughters: Amelia, Anthea, Alicia, Amanda, and Alexandra. Their marriage lasted nearly 40 years, ending amicably in 2000. Anne passed away in 2017.
One of their daughters, Amanda Anka, is married to actor Jason Bateman, further linking the Anka family to the entertainment world. In his 2013 memoir My Way, Anka expressed deep admiration for his family, acknowledging the challenges of balancing a demanding touring schedule with fatherhood.
Following his first marriage, Anka wed Anna Åberg, a former Miss Sweden and personal trainer, in 2008. They had a son, Ethan, but the relationship ended in divorce in 2010. A lengthy custody battle followed, with Anka eventually gaining full custody of their son.
In 2016, Anka married Lisa Pemberton in a private ceremony in Los Angeles. The couple separated in 2020.
New Relationship and Personal Happiness
Since 2021, Anka has been in a relationship with Michele Kahl, with whom he shares a close bond. While Anka has not remarried, he has spoken positively about finding companionship and contentment in his later years.
Although he keeps many aspects of his personal life private, his partner Michele frequently appears on his social media and attends public events with him. The couple’s photos reflect joy and mutual respect, resonating with fans who continue to follow Anka’s journey.
Celebrating Seven Decades of Music
Paul Anka remains active in the music industry. In 2024, he concluded his “Seven Decades Tour,” a celebration of his extraordinary career that began in the 1950s and continues into the 2020s. Performing across the United States and internationally, Anka’s shows feature his greatest hits and tributes to musical peers.
His enduring appeal crosses generations, and he is regularly featured in interviews and documentaries that highlight his contributions to the history of modern music. According to Variety, Anka’s ability to adapt to changing times while maintaining his signature sound has been key to his longevity.
The Secret to Longevity and Success
In multiple interviews, Anka has credited his sustained vitality to a disciplined lifestyle that includes exercise, a balanced diet, and a strong mindset. He stopped smoking decades ago and avoids excessive drinking—decisions he attributes to observing the toll of excess on fellow entertainers in his early days.
“Taking care of your body and staying mentally sharp has made all the difference,” Anka told AARP, emphasizing that good habits and a positive outlook are central to staying active and creative well into his 80s.
Financial Success and Business Ventures
Paul Anka’s estimated net worth is around $80 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. His financial success stems from a combination of royalties, touring revenue, and savvy business decisions. Over the years, Anka has explored ventures outside of music, including partial ownership of a private jet leasing company and a stake in the Ottawa Senators NHL team in the 1990s.
These investments reflect Anka’s lifelong approach to work: structured, forward-thinking, and focused. In his own words, he attributes his success to being “90% work and 10% genius.”
Cultural Legacy
With a catalog that includes dozens of charting singles and collaborations with music icons, Paul Anka’s legacy is secure. His songs have been featured in countless films, commercials, and television shows, and his influence can be seen in artists who followed him—from crooners to contemporary pop singers.
Anka’s story is not only one of early fame but also of resilience, reinvention, and dedication to the craft of songwriting and performance. He remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry, known not just for his music but also for his professionalism and humility.
Verified Sources:
- Billboard – Paul Anka: Music Milestones
- People Magazine – Paul Anka Family and Career
- AARP – Paul Anka Lifestyle Interview
- Celebrity Net Worth – Paul Anka Net Worth
- Variety – Paul Anka Tour and Music Industry Profile
- Business Jet Traveler – Rat Pack and Legacy Interview
