Late Country Star Naomi Judd’s Widower Recalls Gun Incident

Naomi Judd‘s song “Have Mercy” has taken on a new significance for her widower, Larry Strickland, who revealed a shocking moment from their turbulent past where she once fired a bullet at him. This revelation sheds light on the complexities of their relationship, filled with both love and turmoil, which makes the song resonate even more deeply with their shared experiences.

This weekend marks the premiere of the much-anticipated two-part Lifetime docuseries titled “The Judd Family: Truth Be Told.” In this revealing series, Naomi’s widower, Larry Strickland, opens up about his life with the late country music star. During the show, he discusses a compelling incident recounted in Naomi’s 1993 memoir, “Love Can Build a Bridge,” which provides an intimate look into their tumultuous relationship and the challenges they faced together.

In her memoir, Judd expresses that she and Strickland, who became her husband in 1989, were “wildly, madly, passionately in love.” However, she reveals that their marital bliss was often overshadowed by betrayal, as she accused him of infidelity throughout their relationship. This candid account gives readers insight into the emotional struggles that colored their time together, highlighting both the deep affection and the painful challenges they faced as a couple.

In a dramatization of her memoir, Naomi, portrayed by Kathleen York, confronts Larry, played by Bruce Greenwood, and, in a fit of rage upon discovering his infidelity, shoots at him. This intense scene, which reflects the real-life struggles of their marriage, is something that Strickland witnesses in the new docuseries, adding a layer of complexity to his reflections on their past.

When Larry Strickland was prompted to share his thoughts on the dramatic reenactment, he simply stated, “Well, it really happened. That’s all I can say. That’s all I’m gonna say. It happened.” His brief yet poignant response underscores the reality of their tumultuous relationship, marked by both love and conflict, revealing the raw emotions tied to their shared history.

Despite the tumultuous moments, Naomi and Larry managed to weather the storms of their relationship together. Their bond endured for an impressive 33 years, until Naomi tragically passed away in 2022 due to suicide. This long-lasting partnership, marked by both struggles and triumphs, reflects the complexities of love and commitment in the face of adversity.

“The Judd Family: Truth Be Told” explores Naomi’s challenging childhood, her relationship with her daughter Wynonna, and the numerous trials and triumphs they faced on their journey to becoming the Grammy-winning duo, The Judds. This compelling narrative dives deep into the personal and professional struggles that shaped their legendary careers.