Brenda Warner is Kurt Warner’s Wife and has long been recognized as his greatest supporter — both in football and in life.
As the Hall of Fame quarterback rose from humble beginnings to become a two-time NFL MVP and Super Bowl champion, Brenda stood firmly by his side, embodying resilience, faith, and unconditional love.
Their relationship has weathered triumphs and trials, from financial hardships to the glittering spotlight of fame.
The couple’s enduring love story — immortalized in the 2021 biopic American Underdog — has inspired millions with its message of perseverance, faith, and devotion.
Here’s everything to know about Brenda Warner, the woman whose strength and spirit have shaped the life and legacy of one of football’s most remarkable figures.
A Chance Encounter On The Dance Floor
Born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and raised on an Iowa farm, Brenda’s early life instilled in her a strong work ethic and unwavering sense of faith.
In the early 1990s, fate intervened when she met a young Kurt Warner at a country-western bar in northern Iowa — during a night of line dancing neither initially wanted to attend.
Kurt, then a 21-year-old quarterback at the University of Northern Iowa, was instantly drawn to Brenda.
“Timing, fate — whatever you call it — it-that dance ended with us partnered up,” Kurt recalled. “We both didn’t want to go out that night, and yet everything changed because we did.”
At the time, Brenda wasn’t searching for love. Recently divorced and focusing on her nursing studies after leaving the Marine Corps, she only attended the event at her mother’s encouragement.
Yet that chance meeting marked the beginning of one of sports’ most enduring love stories.
A Mother’s Strength And A Son’s Miracle
Before meeting Kurt, Brenda’s life had already been shaped by profound challenges. She had two children, Zachary and Jesse Jo, from her previous marriage to a fellow Marine.
When Zachary was just four months old, a tragic accident left him blind and with a severe brain injury.
Brenda left the Marines on a hardship discharge to care for her son full-time. Reflecting on that period, she once shared,
“God gave me the strength to raise this boy. It wasn’t the miracle I asked for — but my son is a miracle. He’s changing lives and inspiring others, even with his disabilities.”
Her unshakeable faith and fierce maternal love became hallmarks of her character — qualities that would later anchor her marriage and family with Kurt.
Recognizing True Love In An Unexpected Moment
When Brenda first met Kurt, she was skeptical about romance. “I wasn’t looking for a man,” she admitted. “I was a single mom, on food stamps, trying to survive.”
But Kurt’s compassion changed everything. After their first meeting, he asked a mutual friend for Brenda’s address and showed up at her home to visit. When Brenda introduced him to her 3-year-old son, what happened next solidified her feelings forever.
“When I walked out and saw Kurt wrestling on the floor with Zack — with pure love and no judgment — that’s when I knew,” she said. “He fell in love with my kids before he fell in love with me. That’s how I knew he was worthy of our love.”
A Love Sealed in Faith: The Wedding Of 1997
Brenda and Kurt exchanged vows on October 11, 1997, at St. John American Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa — the same church where Brenda’s late parents had been married before their tragic passing in a tornado a year earlier.
The ceremony was heartfelt and deeply symbolic, celebrating not only love but also faith, healing, and family unity.
Brenda later shared a touching video from the reception showing her young son, Zack, serenading Kurt with Tracy Byrd’s “The Keeper of the Stars.”
In October 2023, the Warners celebrated 26 years of marriage. Brenda marked the milestone on Instagram with a heartfelt caption:
“If I had to choose again, I would still choose you. He sees me completely and loves me fully. Twenty-six years of marriage looks older, feels better, walks slower, and naps regularly — together.”
A Growing Family Of Love
Following their marriage, Kurt adopted Brenda’s two children, Zack and Jesse Jo, officially making them a family.
The couple later welcomed five more children — Kade, Jada Jo, Elijah Storm, and twins Sierra Rose and Sienna Rae — bringing their total to seven children, as well as two grandchildren.
Brenda frequently celebrates family milestones on social media, from graduations and birthdays to red carpet appearances. One family portrait was simply captioned:
“My family. A beautiful mess. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️.”
A Passion For Art And Self-Expression
In her 50s, Brenda discovered a new creative calling — metal art. Inspired by her late mother, who passed away at 50, Brenda decided to pursue something entirely for herself.
“I thought, ‘What would I do if I didn’t care what anyone thought?’ I realized I always loved metal art. So, I watched someone weld, bought the equipment, and taught myself,” she explained.
Today, her art is showcased under the brand MetalArt by B, where she sells her handcrafted pieces and shares her creative journey with followers.
Championing Inclusion Through Treasure House Phoenix
Motivated by her son Zachary’s journey, Brenda and Kurt co-founded Treasure House Phoenix in 2018 — a living community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The organization provides a safe, empowering environment where residents can live independently, build friendships, and thrive.
Brenda, who sits on the board, spoke passionately about the initiative:
“I’m the mother of a child who deserves to be seen, heard, and enjoyed — and to live a full life. Treasure House gives people like Zack that chance.”
Proceeds from Brenda’s art sales help support the organization’s programs, blending her creativity with her advocacy.
Bringing Their Story To The Big Screen
The 2021 film American Underdog — starring Zachary Levi as Kurt and Anna Paquin as Brenda — beautifully captured the couple’s journey from adversity to triumph.
Both Brenda and Kurt served as executive producers, ensuring authenticity in how their love story and family dynamic were portrayed.
Brenda emphasized that the film’s most important element was capturing Kurt’s unconditional love for her children.
“When Kurt met Zack, it was the first time I didn’t have to explain his disability. That was the moment I knew there was something truly special about him.”
Paquin later told PEOPLE:
“Brenda is incredible. She’s even more amazing in person than she seems on paper.”
Faith, Family, And The Written Word
In 2011, Brenda released her memoir, One Call Away: Answering Life’s Challenges with Unshakable Faith, a powerful reflection on her life, motherhood, and the role of faith in overcoming hardship.
She and Kurt had previously co-authored the 2009 New York Times bestseller First Things First: The Rules of Being a Warner, where they shared insights into marriage, parenting, and purpose.
Brenda has also been a motivational speaker, inspiring audiences at events like the Women of Faith Conference with her message of resilience and divine trust.
A Couple Still Going Strong
Even after decades together, the Warners remain a picture of unity. In February 2024, the couple attended the NFL Honors in Las Vegas, with Brenda dazzling in a sequined blue gown beside her husband in a matching two-toned suit.
Now approaching the “empty-nest” phase of life, the couple cherishes the prospect of more time together.
“We’ve never been alone since the day we met,” Kurt shared. “We’re looking forward to just being us.”
FAQ
What Is Treasure House Phoenix?
A non-profit community founded by the Warners that provides independent living opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
What Books Has Brenda Warner Written?
Brenda authored One Call Away: Answering Life’s Challenges with Unshakable Faith and co-wrote First Things First with Kurt Warner.
Was Brenda Warner Portrayed In A Movie?
Yes — actress Anna Paquin portrayed Brenda in the 2021 film American Underdog, which tells the true story of the Warners’ inspiring journey.