Who Is Maxine Sneed? Inside The Life Of Tommy Chong’s Ex-Wife

Introduction: Who Is Maxine Sneed?

The name Maxine Sneed often comes up when talking about legendary comedian and actor Tommy Chong, best known as one-half of the comedy duo Cheech & Chong. While Tommy’s fame has been built through decades of acting, music, and activism, his personal life has long fascinated fans—especially his first marriage to Maxine Sneed. Despite being connected to one of the most recognizable entertainers in North America, Maxine has lived a remarkably private life. Yet, her story remains interesting not because of fame or scandal, but because of her quiet strength, resilience, and influence on the family that helped shape pop culture.

This article takes an in-depth look at Maxine Sneed’s life, from her early beginnings to her marriage with Tommy Chong, her career, her children’s success, and her legacy as a woman who stayed true to herself despite the limelight surrounding her.

Quick Bio Information

Full Name: Maxine Sneed
Gender: Female
Nationality: Canadian
Ethnicity: African-Canadian
Religion: Christianity
Occupation: Former Editor
Famous For: Being the first wife of Tommy Chong
Ex-Husband: Tommy Chong
Children: Rae Dawn Chong, Robbi Lynn Chong
Residence: Reportedly resides in Canada or the United States
Known For: Private lifestyle and motherhood of two successful actresses

Early Life And Background

There is very little public information available about Maxine Sneed’s early life, which is part of what makes her so intriguing. Born in Canada, she is of African-Canadian descent, and while her exact date of birth remains unknown, her life before meeting Tommy Chong is described by those who knew her as grounded and driven. Maxine preferred a quiet existence and has rarely spoken publicly about her upbringing, parents, or education.

Her early years likely shaped her disciplined personality and strong sense of independence, which later helped her navigate the challenges of being connected to a rising entertainer. Before her marriage, she reportedly pursued a career in communication and editing—an interest that would eventually lead her to work with Black Radio Magazine, a platform that supported and celebrated Black voices in broadcasting and entertainment.

People Also Read: Who Is Nila Ermey? Everything To Know About R. Lee Ermey’s Wife And Family

Maxine Sneed’s Career And Professional Life

While most of the world recognizes her as Tommy Chong’s first wife, Maxine Sneed carved her own small but meaningful professional path. She worked as an editor at Black Radio Magazine, a publication that highlighted African-American culture, radio personalities, and entertainment figures. Although little is documented about her specific contributions, being an editor during that time meant Maxine was part of a vital cultural movement, giving voice to underrepresented communities and supporting diversity in media.

Her work showed her commitment to creative communication and cultural storytelling, qualities that she may have passed on to her daughters, both of whom pursued artistic careers. Despite being surrounded by fame, Maxine never sought the spotlight for herself. She maintained a quiet, respectful image that won admiration from those who knew her personally.

The Love Story: How Maxine Sneed Met Tommy Chong

The love story between Maxine Sneed and Tommy Chong began in Canada in the late 1950s, long before Tommy became an international star. At the time, Tommy was pursuing music and performing with local bands. The two fell in love, sharing a connection built on creativity and ambition. They married in 1960, at a time when Tommy was still working to find his path in the entertainment world.

Their early years together were filled with hope and partnership. Maxine supported Tommy’s artistic aspirations, even as his career path began shifting from music to comedy. The couple became part of a dynamic cultural scene that celebrated artistic experimentation, social change, and freedom of expression.

However, as Tommy’s fame began to grow, the pressures of public life started to take a toll on their marriage, ultimately leading to their separation.

Marriage To Tommy Chong: Challenges And Divorce

Maxine and Tommy Chong’s marriage lasted for a decade, from 1960 to 1970, and though it started with love and shared dreams, it was not without difficulty. The pair’s relationship became strained as Tommy’s entertainment career accelerated. According to reports, their marriage ended due to infidelity, which brought emotional challenges and media attention that Maxine had never sought.

A significant controversy arose when it was revealed that Tommy had fathered a child, Rae Dawn Chong, with another woman named Gail Toolson. However, despite the circumstances, Tommy later fought for and won custody of Rae Dawn—who was then raised lovingly by Maxine. This episode showed Maxine’s grace and strength; she chose compassion and stability over resentment, providing both of Tommy’s daughters with a nurturing and supportive home environment.

Their divorce in 1970 marked the end of their marriage but not the end of Maxine’s quiet influence on the Chong family. Even after the separation, she remained a respected figure, admired for handling the breakup with dignity and maturity.

Maxine Sneed’s Children: Rae Dawn Chong And Robbi Lynn Chong

If there is one lasting legacy that defines Maxine Sneed, it is her role as the mother of two highly accomplished daughters — Rae Dawn Chong and Robbi Lynn Chong.

Rae Dawn Chong, born on February 28, 1961, became one of Canada’s most recognizable actresses in the 1980s. She made her film debut in Stony Island (1978) and gained critical acclaim for her performance in Quest for Fire (1981), earning the Genie Award for Best Actress. Her later roles in The Color Purple, Commando, and Soul Man solidified her place in Hollywood history.

Robbi Lynn Chong, born May 28, 1965, followed a similar path but began her career as a model. She signed with Click Modeling Agency at 19 and modeled internationally, including in Paris. Later, she transitioned into acting, appearing in popular TV series and films such as Dave’s World, The Cosby Show, and Far Out Man.

Through both daughters, Maxine’s influence is visible. They credit their upbringing for teaching them resilience, integrity, and cultural pride. It’s clear that Maxine Sneed’s nurturing spirit played a vital role in shaping their confidence and success.

Life After Divorce: Where Is Maxine Sneed Now?

After her divorce from Tommy Chong, Maxine Sneed largely stepped away from the public eye. While Tommy remarried actress and producer Shelby Chong in 1975 and continued building his career, Maxine chose privacy over publicity.

She has reportedly continued living either in Canada or the United States, maintaining close ties with her daughters and grandchildren. Maxine has avoided interviews, social media, and Hollywood events, preferring a quiet and peaceful lifestyle. This decision has only deepened the public’s respect for her, as she stands as an example of someone who values authenticity and peace over fame and attention.

Even though she hasn’t appeared in the media for years, her name still evokes curiosity and admiration, proving that dignity and self-respect can make a lasting impression.

Maxine Sneed’s Net Worth And Financial Status

There is no publicly available information about Maxine Sneed’s net worth. She is not known to have accumulated wealth from Hollywood, nor has she ever sought fame for financial gain. Her income likely came from her professional work as an editor and from her life as part of Tommy Chong’s family during his early years.

While her personal fortune remains private, her ex-husband Tommy Chong has an estimated net worth of around $20 million, largely from his comedy and acting career. However, Maxine’s value can’t be measured in money—it lies in her legacy of integrity, motherhood, and independence.

Maxine Sneed’s Legacy And Influence

Even though she stayed out of the spotlight, Maxine Sneed’s influence can be felt through her family’s continued contributions to entertainment and culture. Her daughters’ success speaks volumes about the values she instilled—discipline, grace, and self-confidence.

As a woman of color navigating life during a time when diversity in media was limited, Maxine’s quiet resilience made her a role model. She proved that strength doesn’t always need to be loud. Her journey reflects the power of staying true to oneself while standing gracefully in the shadow of fame.

Today, when people look back on Tommy Chong’s remarkable life, they also remember Maxine as the woman who shared his early years and helped raise two exceptional artists.

Final Thoughts

Maxine Sneed may not have sought fame, but her story continues to resonate because of her quiet strength and lasting influence. As Tommy Chong’s first wife, she witnessed the early struggles and triumphs of an artist who became a cultural icon. Yet, her identity extends beyond that relationship—she is a mother, professional, and woman of substance who chose dignity over drama.

Her legacy is reflected in her daughters’ achievements, her unwavering grace, and her decision to live life on her own terms. In a world that celebrates loud personalities, Maxine Sneed stands as a reminder that true strength often shines in silence.

FAQs About Maxine Sneed

Who Is Maxine Sneed?
Maxine Sneed is a Canadian former editor best known as the first wife of comedian and actor Tommy Chong and the mother of actresses Rae Dawn Chong and Robbi Lynn Chong.

When Did Maxine Sneed And Tommy Chong Get Married?
They married in 1960 in Canada and were together for a decade before divorcing in 1970.

What Happened To Maxine Sneed After Her Divorce?
After her separation, she chose to live a private life, away from media attention. She reportedly lives quietly in North America and maintains close relationships with her daughters.

Did Maxine Sneed Work In The Entertainment Industry?
While her family is known for acting, Maxine herself worked in media as an editor at Black Radio Magazine but did not pursue an on-screen career.

Who Are Maxine Sneed’s Children?
She is the mother of actresses Rae Dawn Chong and Robbi Lynn Chong, both of whom have had successful careers in film, television, and modeling.

Is Maxine Sneed Still Alive?
Yes, as of 2025, there have been no public reports of her passing. She remains a private individual living outside the spotlight.

What Is Maxine Sneed’s Net Worth?
Her exact net worth is unknown, but she is believed to have lived a comfortable, modest life through her editorial career and personal independence.