Challenges Faced by Tina Turner: Obstacles and Turning Points

Life is full of challenges, and Tina Turner faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Tina Turner, the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll", was a celebrated singer, songwriter, and actress, distinguished by her powerful vocals, distinctive raspy voice, and captivating stage presence. Initially gaining fame as the lead vocalist of the duo Ike & Tina Turner, her career was marked by a difficult marriage that eventually led to a divorce in 1976. Turner then embarked on a hugely successful solo career, solidifying her status as a global icon. Her resilience and talent made her one of the most influential entertainers of all time.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1950: Mother Leaves

In 1950, when Anna Mae Bullock was 11 years old, her mother Zelma left the family without warning to escape an abusive relationship.

1968: Suicide Attempt

In 1968, Tina Turner attempted suicide by overdosing on Valium pills due to her abusive relationship with Ike Turner.

July 1, 1976: Leaving Ike Turner

On July 1, 1976, Tina Turner abruptly left Ike after a bloody fight on their way to a hotel in Dallas, fleeing with only 36 cents and a credit card.

1976: Headlining at Waldorf Astoria and TV deal

By the mid-1970s, Ike's cocaine addiction strained his relationship with Tina. In 1976, Ike & Tina Turner headlined at the Waldorf Astoria New York and signed a television deal with CBS-TV. Ike also planned to move them from United Artists Records to Cream Records.

March 29, 1978: Divorce Finalized

On March 29, 1978, Tina Turner's divorce from Ike Turner was finalized. This marked the end of their tumultuous personal and professional relationship.

1978: Release of 'Rough' Album

In 1978, Tina Turner released her third solo album, 'Rough', on United Artists with distribution in North America and Europe on EMI. The album failed to chart.

1978: Diagnosis of High Blood Pressure

In 1978, Tina Turner was diagnosed with high blood pressure, which remained largely untreated for many years.

1979: Release of 'Love Explosion' Album

In 1979, Tina Turner released 'Love Explosion', which included a brief diversion to disco music. The album failed to chart, leading to a parting of ways with United Artists Records.

1989: Estrangement from Sons

In 1989, Tina Turner mentioned that she was still there for her sons, but reports indicated an estrangement from them in the years before her death.

2013: Stroke After Wedding

In 2013, three weeks after her wedding to Erwin Bach, Tina Turner suffered a stroke and had to learn to walk again.

2016: Diagnosis of Intestinal Cancer

In 2016, Tina Turner was diagnosed with intestinal cancer.

April 7, 2017: Kidney Transplant Surgery

On April 7, 2017, Tina Turner underwent kidney transplantation surgery after her husband, Erwin Bach, donated a kidney.

July 2018: Death of Son Craig

In July 2018, Tina Turner's eldest son, Craig Raymond Turner, was found dead in an apparent suicide.

2018: Memoir Revealing Health Struggles

In 2018, Tina Turner revealed in her memoir "My Love Story" that she had multiple life-threatening illnesses, including high blood pressure, a stroke, and intestinal cancer.