While two-time Super Bowl champion Peyton Manning has always been private about his family life, his deep admiration for his wife, Ashley Manning (née Thompson), and their children is undeniable.
Married for over two decades, Ashley has been Peyton’s constant support both on and off the field.
The couple tied the knot in 2001 after being introduced through a family friend and have since welcomed twins, Marshall and Mosley, born a decade later.
When Peyton led the Denver Broncos to victory at the 2016 Super Bowl, he famously told CBS’s Tracy Wolfson, “I want to go kiss my wife and my kids. I want to go hug my family.”
From her career accomplishments to her role as a devoted wife and mother, here’s everything to know about Ashley Manning, the woman who has stood beside one of football’s greatest quarterbacks.
How Peyton And Ashley Met: A College Connection
Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Ashley met Peyton in her hometown during the summer before his freshman year at the University of Tennessee.
The introduction came through her parents’ next-door neighbor, sparking a lifelong relationship.
In his book Manning: A Father, His Sons, and A Football Legacy, Peyton reminisced about their first meeting:
“It was in August, at one of the few fraternity parties I went to. We were introduced and only talked a little while. I didn’t make a big first impression—she later told me my pastel shirt was a turnoff—but I was certainly impressed.”
At the time, Ashley was attending the University of Virginia, and the pair maintained a long-distance relationship throughout their college years. Peyton later said he admired that Ashley “liked me for who I was, not what I was.”
Ashley’s Academic Journey At The University Of Virginia
Ashley graduated from the University of Virginia in 1997, a milestone that Peyton has publicly celebrated on multiple occasions.
During his 2014 commencement speech at UVA, he described his wife as “the smartest person I know” and credited much of her success to her education there.
In a 2006 interview with Indianapolis Woman magazine, Ashley revealed her preference for privacy and independence:
“I like to stay out of the spotlight; people may think I’m aloof, but I’m not. I’m not shy by any means, but I always let Peyton shine.”
A Businesswoman And NBA Team Co-Owner
In 2012, Ashley made headlines when she became a minority owner of the Memphis Grizzlies, Tennessee’s NBA team. Speaking about the opportunity, she said:
“As a native of Memphis, it was important to me that the Grizzlies remain in Tennessee and continue to have a positive impact on the community.”
Peyton expressed his pride in her entrepreneurial venture, telling The Denver Post:
“While my focus is on playing quarterback for the Denver Broncos, I look forward to watching her become involved with her hometown team.”
A St. Patrick’s Day Wedding In 2001
The couple exchanged vows on March 17, 2001, in a grand wedding attended by more than 600 guests. Peyton’s father, former Saints quarterback Archie Manning, described it as “a pretty big wedding.”
Interestingly, Peyton and Ashley kept their engagement secret until after football season to avoid unnecessary media attention. Archie later explained, “Peyton didn’t want it to be a story during football season.”
Proud Parents Of Twins: Marshall And Mosley Manning
In 2011, Ashley gave birth to the couple’s twins, Marshall Williams and Mosley Thompson.
Although Peyton and Ashley have chosen to keep their children’s lives private, the proud dad occasionally shares insights into their personalities.
During an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show in 2021, Peyton revealed he coaches his son’s flag football team and his daughter’s softball team.
He joked that other parents were hesitant to let him coach, referring to his infamous Saturday Night Live skit in which he humorously threw footballs at kids.
Despite his legendary status, Peyton admitted that neither of his children considers him their favorite player—his son prefers Patrick Mahomes, while his daughter cheers for Stefon Diggs.
Giving Back: The PeyBack Foundation
Both Peyton and Ashley share a deep passion for philanthropy. In 1999, they co-founded the PeyBack Foundation, a nonprofit that provides leadership and growth opportunities for at-risk youth.
Ashley also plays an active role in supporting the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St. Vincent, helping fund programs that provide care for children and families in need.
The Woman Behind Peyton’s Comeback
When Peyton faced a career-threatening neck injury in 2011, Ashley was instrumental in encouraging him to continue pursuing his NFL career. Peyton told Sports Illustrated:
“Ashley and I actually had those conversations—more than one. I wanted to retire because I wasn’t seeing any progress. But Ashley was the one saying, ‘Peyton, you’ve got to try.’”
Her unwavering belief helped motivate him to push through rehabilitation, ultimately leading to one of the greatest comebacks in NFL history. Peyton went on to play five more seasons before officially retiring in 2016.
A Stylish Appearance At The 2024 Paris Olympics
In July 2024, Peyton and Ashley were spotted at the Paris Olympics, attending several sporting events alongside their twins and Peyton’s mother, Olivia Manning.
Their presence drew media attention, with fans praising the couple’s enduring bond and low-key family values.
FAQ
What Does Ashley Manning Do For A Living?
Ashley is a businesswoman and minority owner of the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies. She also co-manages the PeyBack Foundation with Peyton.
How Long Have Peyton And Ashley Manning Been Married?
They’ve been married since March 17, 2001, celebrating over two decades together.
Is Ashley Manning Involved In Philanthropy?
Yes. She’s an active philanthropist, co-founding the PeyBack Foundation and supporting numerous children’s health initiatives.