Actor and former Fresno Mayor Alan Autry has been married to his wife, Kimberlee Autry, since 1994. Throughout their decades-long union, the couple has balanced a high-profile life spanning professional sports, television stardom, and municipal politics. They share two children, Austin and Heather, and currently reside in California’s San Joaquin Valley.
The Foundation of the Autry Marriage
The relationship between Alan Autry and Kimberlee Autry (formerly Kimberlee Green) is often cited as one of the more resilient partnerships in the entertainment industry. Married in 1994, the couple has navigated several distinct phases of Alan’s multifaceted career. By the time they wed, Alan was already a household name, having spent years portraying the beloved character Captain Bubba Skinner on the hit television series In the Heat of the Night.
The couple’s union began during a transitional period for Alan. Having moved away from the intense filming schedule of a weekly drama, he was beginning to look toward other avenues of service and creative expression. Kimberlee has been described by those close to the family as a stabilizing force, providing a private foundation that allowed Alan to transition from the world of acting into the demanding arena of California politics.
Their shared commitment to Christian faith has been a cornerstone of their marriage. The Autrys have frequently spoken about how their beliefs guide their personal decisions and professional projects. This shared worldview led them to collaborate on several faith-based media projects through their own production company, ensuring that their professional output aligned with their domestic values.
Who is Kimberlee Autry?
While Alan Autry has spent much of his life in the spotlight—first as a quarterback in the NFL, then as a television star, and later as a politician—Kimberlee Autry has generally preferred a more private existence. However, her influence on their shared business ventures is significant.
Kimberlee has served as a key partner in the Autry Entertainment Group and Dirt Road Productions. Rather than merely being a supportive spouse, she has taken an active role in the development and production of various film and television projects. Her involvement is particularly evident in the "family-friendly" and faith-based content that the couple prioritizes.
During Alan’s two terms as the Mayor of Fresno (2001–2009), Kimberlee stepped into the role of the city’s First Lady. While she maintained a relatively low profile compared to other political spouses, she participated in community outreach and supported initiatives focused on family welfare and youth development. Her ability to navigate the complexities of political life while maintaining the privacy of their children is often highlighted as one of her most significant contributions to the family’s success during that decade.
Alan Autry’s Career Trajectory and Family Support
To understand the context of his marriage to Kimberlee, one must look at the expansive career Alan Autry has led. Born Carlos Alan Autry Jr., he initially found success on the football field. He was a star quarterback at the University of the Pacific and was eventually drafted by the Green Bay Packers.
From the Gridiron to the Screen
After his professional football career ended, Autry moved into acting. His rugged appearance and athletic background made him a natural fit for Westerns and police procedurals. His most famous role on In the Heat of the Night lasted from 1988 to 1995. It was during the latter half of this show’s run and the subsequent television movies that he and Kimberlee built their life together.
Political Ambitions
In 2000, Alan Autry made the surprising leap from entertainment to politics. He ran for Mayor of Fresno, California, as a Republican. His campaign was successful, and he served two terms, leaving office in 2009 due to term limits. Throughout these eight years, the pressures of public office were immense. Fresno, one of California's largest cities, faced significant challenges regarding crime, urban sprawl, and economic development. Kimberlee’s role during this time was primarily one of domestic stability, ensuring that their home remained a sanctuary away from the often-contentious nature of City Hall.
Return to Media
Following his political career, Alan returned to his roots in media but with a different focus. He hosted a successful radio talk show and began producing films that reflected his Christian values. Kimberlee remained his primary collaborator during this era, helping to steer the creative direction of their production company.
The Autry Family and Children
Alan and Kimberlee Autry have two children together: a son named Austin and a daughter named Heather. Additionally, Alan has a daughter named Lauren from his first marriage to Vicky Autry (married from 1980 to 1986).
The Autrys have made a conscious effort to raise their children away from the typical Hollywood environment. By maintaining their primary residence in the Central Valley of California, they provided a more grounded upbringing for Austin and Heather. This geographical choice was intentional; the San Joaquin Valley is where Alan grew up (specifically in Riverdale), and it is where the couple felt their children would have the best opportunity to develop a strong work ethic and a sense of community.
As of 2026, the Autry children have pursued their own paths, largely staying out of the tabloid headlines that often plague the offspring of famous actors and politicians. This privacy is a testament to the boundaries Alan and Kimberlee established early in their marriage.
Collaborative Projects: Autry Entertainment Group
One of the most visible aspects of the partnership between Alan and Kimberlee is their work with the Autry Entertainment Group and Dirt Road Productions. Their mission has consistently been to produce "values-based" entertainment.
| Project Title | Role | Theme |
|---|---|---|
| The Legend of Jake Kincaid | Produced/Directed by Alan | Faith and Redemption in the Old West |
| Forgiven | Produced by Autry Group | Spiritual growth and family conflict |
| Choices | Production Collaboration | Youth guidance and moral decision making |
| In the Heat of the Night | Starring Alan Autry | Social justice and small-town law enforcement |
In these projects, Kimberlee often works behind the scenes in production management and development. By controlling the production process, the couple ensures that the final product adheres to their standards of family-friendly content. This professional collaboration has served to strengthen their bond, as it allows them to spend significant time together while working toward a common goal.
Life in the San Joaquin Valley
In 2026, Alan and Kimberlee Autry remain deeply rooted in the Fresno area. Unlike many celebrities who maintain a presence in Los Angeles or New York, the Autrys have long championed the "Heart of California."
Their commitment to the region goes beyond Alan’s former role as Mayor. They are active members of their local church and frequently participate in regional charity events. For the Autrys, the San Joaquin Valley is not just a place to live; it is a vital part of their identity. This local focus has helped them maintain a long-lasting marriage by insulating them from the pressures and distractions of the entertainment industry's social circuits.
Navigating Public Life and Privacy
The longevity of Alan and Kimberlee’s marriage is particularly notable given the public nature of Alan’s career. Marriages in the entertainment industry often struggle under the weight of travel, long filming hours, and public scrutiny. Similarly, political marriages are frequently strained by the demands of campaigning and governing.
The Autrys appear to have succeeded by following a few key principles:
- Prioritizing Faith: They have consistently identified their religious beliefs as the anchor of their relationship.
- Maintaining Boundaries: Kimberlee’s decision to remain largely out of the tabloid press has allowed the couple to have a "normal" life outside of Alan's fame.
- Geographic Stability: Staying in the Fresno area provided a consistent environment for their family.
- Shared Work: Working together on films and radio projects turned potential time apart into shared creative endeavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alan Autry still married to Kimberlee Autry?
Yes, as of 2026, Alan Autry and Kimberlee Autry remain married. They have been together since their wedding in 1994, marking over three decades of marriage. Their relationship has endured through Alan’s transition from a full-time actor to the Mayor of Fresno and his subsequent return to media production.
How many children do Alan and Kimberlee Autry have?
Alan and Kimberlee have two children together: a son named Austin and a daughter named Heather. Alan also has an older daughter, Lauren, from his previous marriage to Vicky Autry. The family has generally maintained a high degree of privacy regarding their children's adult lives.
What does Kimberlee Autry do for a living?
Kimberlee Autry is a producer and business partner in the Autry Entertainment Group and Dirt Road Productions. She works alongside Alan to develop faith-based and family-oriented film and television content. During Alan’s tenure as Mayor of Fresno, she also served the community as the city's First Lady.
Was Alan Autry married before he met Kimberlee?
Yes, Alan Autry was married once before. His first marriage was to Vicky Autry in 1980. The couple had one daughter, Lauren, before their marriage ended in divorce in 1986. Alan remained single for several years before marrying Kimberlee in 1994.
Where do Alan and Kimberlee Autry live now?
The couple resides in the San Joaquin Valley area of California, specifically in the Fresno region. Alan has deep roots in this area, having grown up in the nearby town of Riverdale. They have chosen to remain in this region rather than moving to Hollywood, citing the importance of community and family values.
What are some movies Alan and Kimberlee Autry made together?
Through their production companies, they have worked on projects like The Legend of Jake Kincaid and Forgiven. These films typically feature Alan in a lead or directorial role, with the production team focusing on themes of Christian faith, personal redemption, and traditional Western values.
Final Recommendation for Fans and Researchers
For those interested in following the ongoing work of Alan and Kimberlee Autry, the best course of action is to monitor the releases from Dirt Road Productions and Alan Autry’s official social media channels. Their work continues to focus on the Central Valley of California and faith-based storytelling. Fans of In the Heat of the Night can also find Alan participating in occasional retrospective interviews where he often speaks fondly of the support his family provided during his years on the show.
