Bridget Rooney is a woman whose life story intersects with American sports history, Hollywood stardom, and billionaire business circles. As a member of the legendary Rooney family—the founders and longtime owners of the Pittsburgh Steelers—she was born into a legacy of tradition, wealth, and community influence. While her family name is synonymous with NFL royalty, Bridget became a figure of national media fascination in the mid-1990s following a high-profile relationship with Academy Award-winning actor Kevin Costner. This period of her life, marked by the birth of their son, Liam, placed her under a persistent public spotlight that she navigated with characteristic privacy and strength.
Beyond her ties to famous men and sports dynasties, Bridget Rooney has established herself as a sophisticated socialite and a dedicated philanthropist. Her marriage to billionaire Bill Koch in 2005 further cemented her status in the upper echelons of American society, where she has leveraged her influence to support numerous charitable causes. Known for her poise and refusal to engage in tabloid sensationalism, she has focused her energy on raising her family and contributing to the arts and social welfare. In 2026, she remains a respected figure in Palm Beach and beyond, representing the quiet power of a woman who manages a public legacy with private grace.
Profile Table
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Bridget Rooney Koch |
| Date of Birth | April 26, 1962 |
| Age | 63 Years Old (As of 2026) |
| Place of Birth | California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Socialite and Philanthropist |
| Years Active | 1990s to Present |
| Education | Graduate Studies in Fine Arts |
| Religion | Christian (Catholic Roots) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Net Worth | $10 Million (Personal) / $1.5 Billion (Family) |
Family
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Bill Koch (Husband): A billionaire businessman, collector, and America’s Cup winner who married Bridget in 2005.
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Liam Costner (Son): Born in 1996 from her relationship with Kevin Costner; he primarily stays out of the public eye.
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Kaitlin Koch (Daughter): The daughter she shares with Bill Koch, born into the billionaire family lineage.
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Timothy Rooney (Father): A prominent member of the Rooney family who managed the Yonkers Raceway.
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Art Rooney (Grandfather): The iconic founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers and a legendary figure in sports history.
The Heritage of the Pittsburgh Steelers
Bridget Rooney’s identity is deeply rooted in one of the most respected families in American professional sports. Her grandfather, Art Rooney, founded the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1933, and the family has maintained a standard of excellence and community loyalty ever since. Growing up as a Rooney meant being part of a dynasty that valued tradition, resilience, and the “common man” spirit of Pittsburgh. This heritage provided Bridget with a unique worldview, balancing immense wealth with a grounded appreciation for hard work and family values.
The Rooney family is known for its sprawling network of cousins and siblings, including notable figures like her late uncle Dan Rooney, who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland. This environment instilled in Bridget a sense of social responsibility and a deep connection to her Irish-Catholic roots. Even as she moved into different social circles in California and Florida, the “Steelers’ Way”—characterized by loyalty and quiet dignity—remained a core part of her personality and how she approached her public life.
The Kevin Costner Relationship and Son Liam
In the mid-1990s, Bridget Rooney entered the global spotlight during a brief but highly publicized relationship with Kevin Costner. Coming off his massive success in films like Dances with Wolves and The Bodyguard, Costner was one of the biggest stars in the world. When it was revealed that Bridget was pregnant with his child in 1996, the media attention was intense. Bridget famously stated in interviews at the time that she was “110% sure” of the paternity, showing a firm and confident stance during a media storm.
Their son, Liam Costner, was born in November 1996. While the relationship with Kevin did not lead to marriage, Bridget was praised for her independence. Unlike many in similar situations, she did not seek financial gain from the actor, relying instead on her own family’s substantial resources to provide for her son. Kevin Costner eventually acknowledged Liam and set up a trust fund, but Bridget remained the primary force in Liam’s upbringing, ensuring he grew up with a sense of privacy and stability far removed from the Hollywood “brat pack” lifestyle.
Marriage to Billionaire Bill Koch
In 2005, Bridget Rooney began a new chapter of her life when she married William “Bill” Koch, a member of the influential Koch family and a billionaire in his own right. The wedding, held in Colorado, was a major social event, uniting two of America’s most powerful families. Bill Koch, known for his business acumen with the Oxbow Group and his passion for wine and maritime history, found a partner in Bridget who matched his social standing and intellectual curiosity.
The couple became staples of the Palm Beach social scene, where they are known for their lavish yet tasteful lifestyle. Their marriage has been a partnership of mutual support, particularly in their shared philanthropic endeavors. Together, they have navigated the complexities of managing a multi-billion dollar estate while raising their daughter, Kaitlin. Bridget’s role as the wife of a billionaire has allowed her to expand her influence in the world of high-society charity, where she is frequently seen hosting events that benefit the arts and local community projects.
Philanthropy and the Palm Beach Social Scene
Bridget Rooney Koch is widely recognized as a pillar of philanthropy in Palm Beach, Florida. She is deeply involved in several charitable organizations, often focusing on children’s welfare, education, and the arts. Her work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County is particularly well-known, where she has helped raise millions of dollars through the annual Winter Ball and other high-profile events. Her approach to charity is hands-on; she is often involved in the planning and execution of events rather than just lending her name.
In addition to her work for children, Bridget is a vocal supporter of the arts. Drawing on her own background in fine arts, she has helped fund museum exhibitions and educational programs that bring artistic opportunities to underserved communities. In the Palm Beach social hierarchy, she is regarded as a woman of immense influence who uses her platform for positive change. Her social calendar is filled with some of the most exclusive events in the country, yet her focus remains steadfastly on the impact her presence and resources can make for those in need.
Legacy and Private Life in 2026
As of 2026, Bridget Rooney continues to live a life that balances public influence with private fulfillment. She has successfully raised her children to be independent and well-adjusted individuals, a feat she considers her greatest accomplishment. Her son Liam and daughter Kaitlin have both benefited from her protective parenting and her emphasis on personal character. Bridget remains a frequent guest at major cultural milestones, always appearing with the poise and elegance that have become her trademark.
Her legacy is one of modern resilience. She navigated a high-profile scandal in the 90s with her head held high, maintained her dignity through a billionaire marriage, and has dedicated her later years to giving back to society. In 2026, she stands as a symbol of the “new American aristocrat”—one who values tradition and family but isn’t afraid to forge their own path. Whether in the boardroom, at a charity gala, or at a Steelers game, Bridget Rooney remains a woman of substance whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
FAQs
Who is Bridget Rooney?
Bridget Rooney is a socialite and philanthropist from the famous Rooney family, owners of the Pittsburgh Steelers. She is also the former partner of Kevin Costner and the current wife of billionaire Bill Koch.
How many children does Bridget Rooney have?
She has two children: a son named Liam Costner (with Kevin Costner) and a daughter named Kaitlin Koch (with husband Bill Koch).
What is Bridget Rooney’s connection to the Pittsburgh Steelers?
She is the granddaughter of Art Rooney, the founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Her father, Timothy Rooney, also held significant roles within the family’s business empire.
Is Bridget Rooney still married to Bill Koch?
Yes, as of 2026, Bridget Rooney and Bill Koch remain married. They have been together since their wedding in 2005.
Conclusion
Bridget Rooney’s life is a fascinating blend of sports heritage, celebrity connection, and billionaire philanthropy. From the football fields of Pittsburgh to the social galas of Palm Beach, she has moved with a level of grace and independence that is rare in the public eye. By prioritizing her children and her charitable work, she has ensured that her legacy is defined by her own actions rather than just her famous associations. In 2026, Bridget Rooney remains a powerful example of how to manage a public identity with private integrity, proving that true wealth is found in family, heritage, and the service of others.
