Kristen Tomassi may have initially gained public attention as the first wife of British billionaire and Virgin Group founder Richard Branson, but her life and achievements extend far beyond that high-profile marriage.
A talented architect and interior designer in her own right, Tomassi has built a respected career while leading a relatively private and accomplished life.
Profile Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kristen Tomassi |
| Profession | Interior Designer, Architect |
| Famous For | Ex-Wife of Richard Branson |
| Date of Birth | March 17, 1952 (age 72 as of 2024) |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christian |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Net Worth | $1–$5 million (estimated) |
| Ex-Husbands | Richard Branson (1972–1979), Kevin Ayers (second husband), Axel Ball (current husband) |
| Children | Galen Ayers (daughter), Nicholas Ball (son) |
Early Life and Background
Kristen Tomassi was born on March 17, 1952, in Southport, Connecticut, into a well-off American family.
Her father, Joseph H. Tomassi, was a prominent businessman, known for his work in mergers and acquisitions and as the head of international marketing for Libby International.
Her mother, Jacqueline Tomassi, is a visual artist whose work has been publicly exhibited. Kristen grew up with three sisters—Merril Delaney, Jacquelyn Richardson, and Lowell McHugh—in a household that valued education, creativity, and enterprise.
Education and Career
Kristen attended the prestigious Concord Academy in Massachusetts before attending Fairfield University.
Her passion for design led her to study at the Parsons School of Design in New York and later at the Arizona State School of Architecture, where she developed her skills in architecture.
Over the years, she established herself as a respected interior designer and architect, recognized for her innovative and elegant designs.
Kristen’s body of work and dedication to her craft earned her a reputation in the design world that stands apart from her celebrity connections.
She also appears to be involved in luxury real estate. She may be affiliated with Finca Son Salas, a vacation property in Mallorca, Spain, which hints at a diversified income stream.
Marriages and Personal Life
Kristen Tomassi has been married three times, with her first marriage being the most publicized due to her union with Richard Branson.
1. Marriage to Richard Branson (1972–1979)
Kristen married Richard Branson on July 22, 1972, in a ceremony at the Holy Cross Church in Shipton-on-Cherwell, England. At the time, Branson was a budding entrepreneur, having just founded Virgin Records.
However, their marriage faced unexpected challenges. In his autobiography, Losing My Virginity, Branson revealed that Kristen had a rare allergic reaction to his bodily fluids, causing severe rashes whenever they were intimate.
Despite seeking medical help, the issue persisted, leading to their divorce in 1979 after seven years of marriage.
They did not have any children together.
2. Marriage to Kevin Ayers (Second Husband)
After her divorce from Branson, Kristen married Kevin Ayers, an English singer-songwriter and founding member of the psychedelic band Soft Machine. They had a daughter, Galen Ayers, who followed in her father’s musical footsteps.
However, this marriage also ended in divorce, reportedly due to differing lifestyles and priorities.
3. Marriage to Axel Ball (Current Husband)
Kristen later married Axel Ball, a German property developer who once worked with Richard Branson. The couple has a son, Nicholas Ball, who is now a real estate agent.
Kristen and Axel reside in Mallorca, Spain, where they enjoy a peaceful life away from the public eye.
Children and Family
- Galen Ayers (Daughter): A musician, born from her marriage with Kevin Ayers.
- Nicholas Ball (Son): A real estate agent, born from her marriage with Axel Ball.
- Kristen is also a loving grandmother to Adriana Ball and Alexander Ball.
She has three sisters: Merril Delaney, Jacquelyn Richardson, and Lowell McHugh, and she remains close with her mother.
Physical Appearance
- Age: 73 (as of 2025)
- Height/Weight: 5’4″ (approx), 50 kg
- Body Measurements: 34-27-34 inches
- Hair/Eye Color: Brown
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Net Worth
Kristen Tomassi’s net worth is estimated between $1 million and $5 million as of 2024. Her wealth primarily comes from her architectural and design career, as well as real estate investments.
While she may have received a settlement from her divorce from Branson, the amount remains undisclosed. In contrast, her ex-husband Richard Branson is worth an estimated $5 billion.
Her second husband, Kevin Ayers, had an estimated net worth between $1 and $10 million, and her current husband, Axel Ball, is believed to be financially well-established due to his involvement in property development.
Lifestyle and Interests
Kristen enjoys a serene lifestyle, often engaging in hiking, art, and environmental causes. She’s known for her deep appreciation of music and fashion, and has been seen at events like London Fashion Week.
She maintains a low profile on social media and is not active on public platforms like Instagram or Twitter.
Social Media Presence
Kristen maintains a low public profile and is not active on mainstream social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook in any public capacity. She prefers a quiet, family-oriented life.
Facts
- Kristen and Richard Branson did not have any children.
- She is an advocate of eco-friendly design and sustainability.
- Kristen splits her time between the U.S. and Mallorca, where she enjoys family life and nature.
Where Is Kristen Tomassi Now?
Kristen lives in Mallorca, Spain, with her husband, Axel Ball. She remains active in design projects while enjoying time with her family. Unlike her ex-husband Richard Branson, who is a global celebrity, Kristen has chosen a quieter, more reserved life.
Conclusion
Though known to many as the former wife of a global business icon, Kristen Tomassi has created her legacy through creativity, resilience, and dedication to her vessel.
From elite educational institutions to leading architectural work and a life surrounded by art, design, and family, Kristen remains an inspiring figure who has gracefully stepped beyond the shadows of fame into her spotlight.
FAQs:-
Q1- Who is Kristen Tomassi?
Ans -Kristen Tomassi is an American architect and interior designer, widely recognized for her innovative design work. She is also known as the first wife of British billionaire Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group.
Q2- Who was Richard Branson’s first wife?
Ans- Kristen Tomassi, married in 1972 and divorced in 1979.
Q3- How old is Kristen Tomassi?
Ans- Kristen Tomassi was born on March 17, 1952, which makes her 73 years old as of 2025.
Q4- Did Kristen Tomassi have children with Richard Branson?
Ans- No, Kristen Tomassi and Richard Branson did not have any children together. However, Kristen has two children from her later relationships: daughter Galen Ayers and son Nicholas Ball.
Q5- Who is Kristen Tomassi married to now?
Ans- After divorcing Richard Branson and a brief marriage to musician Kevin Ayers, Kristen Tomassi is currently married to German property developer Axel Ball. They reside in Mallorca, Spain.
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