Introduction
Shania Twain’s journey has been one of incredible highs and devastating lows. Born Eileen Regina Edwards in Ontario, Canada, she faced a difficult childhood marked by poverty, family instability, and abuse. Her parents’ tragic death when she was 22 forced her to take care of her younger siblings. Despite these challenges, she found solace in music from a young age, performing in bars to help support her family.
In her teens and early career, Shania persevered through industry rejection before finally finding success with her second album, The Woman in Me, produced by Robert John “Mutt” Lange. Their collaboration not only launched her to superstardom, but also blossomed into a romance. They married in 1993, and Mutt helped shape her musical style, leading to hits like Come On Over, which became one of the best-selling albums of all time.
However, her success was interrupted by serious personal struggles. Shania was diagnosed with Lyme disease, which severely damaged her vocal cords and left her fearing she’d never sing again. Around the same time, her world was further shattered when she discovered that Mutt had been having an affair with her close friend, Marie-Anne Thiébaud. The betrayal led to their divorce in 2008 and caused deep emotional turmoil.
Despite this heartbreak and her health challenges, Shania eventually found healing. She even married Frédéric Thiébaud, the ex-husband of the woman who had the affair with Mutt. Shania has used her experiences — both painful and triumphant — to fuel her music and inspire others, reclaiming her voice and her life.
After enduring heartbreak from her divorce and a battle with Lyme disease, Shania Twain found strength and love again, marrying Frédéric Thiébaud in 2011. The emotional and physical toll from her illness and divorce led her to temporarily step away from the music industry to focus on healing. During this hiatus, she worked on her recovery and leaned on the support of her loved ones, struggling with the loss of her voice and self-doubt.
Shania made a major comeback with her 2017 album Now and her Las Vegas residency “Still the One” (2012–2014). Her return showcased resilience and creativity, drawing critical acclaim and fan support. Her 2019 acting debut in Trading Paint and her bestselling memoir From This Moment On further cemented her influence beyond music.
In 2023, she released her sixth studio album Queen of Me, her first with Republic Records and the first to carry a Parental Advisory label. Though reviews were mixed, the album achieved commercial success, charting highly in Canada, the US, the UK, and other countries. She also toured in support of the album and announced her third Las Vegas residency set for 2024.
Shania Twain’s story is one of resilience and empowerment. She has inspired millions—especially women—by challenging industry norms, overcoming adversity, and embracing her identity. Through her music and personal journey, she continues to be a symbol of strength and hope.