Being the mom of two teenagers can be a whirlwind, but for television legal expert Nancy Grace, it's a whirlwind she cherishes deeply. "To be honest, I never imagined I'd ever get married or have a family. And now, I'm overwhelmed with blessings," she reveals in an exclusive interview with Closer, talking about her life alongside her husband, David Linch, and their 13-year-old twins, John David and Lucy.
Nancy, now 61, faced unimaginable heartbreak when her fiancé was tragically shot and killed by a co-worker back in 1979. This devastating event set her on a path she never anticipated. The pain and trauma she endured became a driving force for her to become a prosecutor, later transitioning into a television legal analyst, author, and advocate for victims' rights. Today, she's also wearing the hat of executive producer with The Good Father: The Martin MacNeill Story. This compelling true-crime tale, told through the eyes of Alexis Somers, MacNeill's daughter who fought for justice for her mother, aired on Lifetime on October 2.
Scroll down to dive into Closer's insightful Q&A with Nancy Grace.
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Why Did You Feel Passionate About Turning the Martin MacNeill Story Into a Film?
It's not just a story—it's real life. These are real people living through real pain and real triumphs. I became completely captivated by Michele MacNeill, a mother of four biological children who also adopted four more. She was so loving, so trusting, that she never suspected her husband was a con artist. The film is a tribute to her strength and resilience.
How Do You Handle the Emotional Weight of the Cases You Cover?
It's hard not to get emotionally invested, especially when you know it's not just a movie—it's reality. Imagine the weight Alexis Somers carried, suspecting her own father, the man she admired so much? She went to medical school, inspired by her father, only to discover his entire life was a lie. It's gut-wrenching, and it reminds me why this work is so crucial.
Your Career Began Amid Personal Tragedy. Tell Us About That.
After the murder of my fiancé, Keith Griffin, I was lost. School felt meaningless, and I didn't know where to turn. Eventually, I decided to return to school with a new purpose: to become a felony prosecutor. That decision changed everything for me.
What Do You Remember Most About That Difficult Time?
It's a blur, honestly. My parents drove me to court every day, which was a two-hour trip from our home. I barely remember the trial itself. What sticks with me is testifying on the stand, seeing the man who killed Keith in court, and noticing he couldn't look me in the eye. I remember seeing Keith's bloodied clothes and the defense attorneys avoiding me as I walked past their table.
Do You Ever Reflect on How Your Life Might Be Different if That Tragedy Hadn't Happened?
Occasionally, I do reflect, but not often. My life took a beautiful turn when I met my husband, David, and we had our twins, John David and Lucy. In the past 14 years, I've experienced more joy than I ever imagined. So, instead of dwelling on what could have been, I focus on what I have and how I can make the most of it.
Before Court TV Came Calling, Did You Ever Imagine a Career in Television?
Not at all. I grew up in rural Georgia, on a dirt road with a well dug by my grandfather. My dream was to lock up bad guys and support crime victims. When Court TV first approached me about hosting a show, I actually declined. I was content with my life as it was.
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What Made You Change Your Mind?
When my district attorney announced his retirement, I realized my career path might need a pivot. I reached back out to Court TV, packed up two boxes of clothes, a curling iron, and $300, and moved to New York. What could go wrong, right?
Are There Other Cases You'd Love to Turn Into Movies?
Absolutely. There are a few in the works, and there will always be cases that deserve to be highlighted—not just for the story they tell but for the messages they carry. Each one has the potential to educate and inspire.
Have You Ever Been Starstruck Meeting Someone Famous?
Oh, definitely. Meeting Angela Lansbury was a moment I'll never forget. But she was gracious and kind, which made the experience even more memorable.
What Do You Enjoy Doing Outside of Work?
I love cooking, reading, running, camping, RVing, snorkeling, and diving. Traveling is a passion of mine. I want to explore the world with my husband, David, and our twins. There's so much beauty out there waiting to be discovered.
What's Your Secret to a Happy Marriage?
Marriage isn't without its challenges, but David and I have something special. We argue, sure—we're both thinkers, and I am a trial lawyer by trade. But David has a way of making me laugh, even in the toughest moments. Trust is key. I know I can count on him, no matter what. That's what makes our relationship strong.
Was Motherhood Always Part of Your Plan?
I always dreamed of being a mother, but after Keith's murder, I thought that dream would never come true. Seeking justice became my world. For years, I couldn't risk losing it all again. But when it did happen, it was the most rewarding experience of my life.
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What Are the Biggest Challenges of Being a Mom Later in Life?
Let me tell you, keeping up with boy/girl twins is no small feat! I thought things would get easier as they grew older, but they don't. If anything, they get more demanding in different ways.
What Are You Most Proud Of in Your Career?
Giving a voice to crime victims is what I'm most proud of. I spent about a decade in the district attorney's office, where we handled around 100 new cases each week. Each one of those cases involves a victim who needs to be heard, and I'm honored to have been part of that process.
— Reporting by Amanda Champagne-Meadows
