Asake Bomani is an American author, jazz singer, and cultural advocate who rose to prominence through her creative work and her influential partnership with legendary actor Danny Glover. Born in 1945, Bomani has dedicated her life to the promotion of African American arts and literature. While many recognize her as the woman who stood by Glover during his meteoric rise to stardom in the 1980s and 90s, she is a distinguished figure in her own right. She is an American Book Award winner and was the driving force behind the Bomani Gallery in San Francisco, which served as a vital hub for Black artists during its operation.
In 2026, Bomani is celebrated as a matriarch of the San Francisco creative community. Her journey is a testament to the power of intellectual partnership; she met Danny Glover while they were both students at San Francisco State University during the height of the civil rights and Black Power movements. Their 25-year marriage was not just a domestic union but a collaborative effort in social activism and artistic patronage. Today, she remains a respected voice in the literary world, having successfully bridged the gap between personal privacy and professional advocacy.
Asake Bomani Profile
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Asake Bomani |
| Date of Birth | July 1, 1945 |
| Age | 80 Years Old (As of 2026) |
| Place of Birth | Wilmington, Delaware, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Author, Jazz Singer, Art Gallery Owner |
| Years Active | 1970s to Present |
| Education | English Major, San Francisco State University |
| Notable Award | American Book Award (1993) |
| Marital Status | Divorced (m. Danny Glover, 1975–2000) |
| Net Worth | $1 Million – $5 Million (Estimated) |
Family
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Danny Glover (Ex-Husband): The world-renowned actor and activist. Despite their divorce in 2000, they have maintained a friendly relationship over the decades.
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Mandisa Glover (Daughter): Born in 1976, Mandisa is the couple’s only child and has worked in the film industry as a staff assistant and costumer.
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Adesola (Grandson): Asake’s grandson, born in 2004, whom she and the family cherish.
The San Francisco Roots and “Sake”
Asake Bomani, often affectionately called “Sake” by those close to her, spent her formative years in the vibrant cultural landscape of San Francisco. Her academic pursuits at San Francisco State University were pivotal, as the campus was a center for revolutionary thought and the birth of Black Studies in the late 1960s. It was here that she met a young economics student named Danny Glover.
Their connection was immediate and deeply intellectual. Bomani was an English major with a passion for jazz and literature, while Glover was finding his voice in local theater. She is widely credited as the person who encouraged Glover to quit his stable city administration job to pursue acting full-time—a decision that changed the course of cinematic history. They married in 1975, beginning a partnership that balanced the demands of a burgeoning Hollywood career with a commitment to their community in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood.
Literary Success and the Bomani Gallery
In 1993, Asake Bomani achieved a significant milestone in her own career when she won the American Book Award for her work on Paris Connections: African American Artists in Paris. The book explored the historical and cultural significance of Black American creators who found refuge and inspiration in France. This achievement solidified her reputation as a serious scholar and advocate for the African American diaspora.
Beyond the written word, Bomani was a pioneer in the art world. She established the Bomani Gallery in San Francisco, which focused on showcasing contemporary African American art. At a time when mainstream galleries often overlooked Black artists, Bomani provided a prestigious space for their work to be seen and collected. Her gallery was not just a business; it was a cultural mission that reflected her belief in the “strong sense of morality” her ex-husband once praised her for having.
Life After the Spotlight
The divorce of Asake Bomani and Danny Glover in 2000 marked the end of an era for one of Hollywood’s most respected power couples. However, unlike many high-profile splits, theirs was handled with remarkable maturity and mutual respect. Since the divorce, Bomani has continued to live a life centered on her passions—literature, music, and her family. She has successfully maintained a private life while continuing to support cultural initiatives in the Bay Area.
In 2026, she is frequently seen at events supporting her daughter, Mandisa, and her grandson, Adesola. Her legacy is one of intellectual independence; she never allowed herself to be defined solely by her husband’s fame. Instead, she used her position to uplift other artists and writers, ensuring that the stories of African American excellence were documented and preserved.
Legacy and Reflection in 2026
At 80 years old, Asake Bomani remains a figure of quiet dignity and immense cultural influence. Her story is a reminder of the vital role that partners play in the success of iconic figures—not just as supporters, but as intellectual equals and catalysts for change. Her work in the 1990s continues to be a resource for art historians, and her contributions to the San Francisco art scene are remembered as foundational.
In 2026, she is celebrated as a woman who mastered the art of “living well.” From her early days as a jazz singer to her success as an award-winning author, she has lived with a strong sense of self. Asake Bomani’s life proves that true success is found in the integrity of one’s work and the strength of the family bonds one builds along the way.
FAQs
Who is Asake Bomani?
Asake Bomani is an American author, jazz singer, and former art gallery owner. She is the ex-wife of actor Danny Glover.
What did Asake Bomani win an award for?
She won the American Book Award in 1993 for the book Paris Connections: African American Artists in Paris.
How many children does Asake Bomani have?
She has one daughter, Mandisa Glover, born in 1976.
Is Asake Bomani still active in the art world?
While her primary gallery operations have concluded, she remains a respected advisor and advocate for African American art and literature in 2026.
Conclusion
Asake Bomani’s life is a tapestry of artistic passion and steadfast advocacy. She is a woman who chose to build her own legacy while supporting one of the greatest actors of our time. From the university campuses of the 60s to the literary stages of the 90s and her private life in 2026, she has walked her path with grace. Her influence continues to be felt through the artists she championed and the family she continues to anchor.
