Julie Bowen, best known for her Emmy-winning role as Claire Dunphy on Modern Family, has charmed audiences with her comedic timing and emotional depth. But while her professional life has been widely publicized, her personal life—especially her marriage to Scott Phillips—has remained relatively private. This blog explores the story of Julie Bowen husband, their life together, why they divorced, and where her love life stands today.
Who Is Scott Phillips?
Scott Phillips is a real estate investor and former software developer. He largely stayed out of the spotlight during his marriage to Bowen, preferring privacy over fame. The couple tied the knot on September 9, 2004, beginning a 13-year union that weathered Julie’s rising fame and the demands of parenthood.
Despite his low-key presence in the public eye, Phillips supported Julie through her early career milestones and the hectic years of Modern Family. According to Julie, his support was crucial, though he often chose not to attend Hollywood events, preferring his own space and privacy.
Married Life and Family
Julie and Scott had three sons together:
- Oliver McLanahan Phillips – born April 10, 2007
- Twins: John & Gustav Phillips – born May 8, 2009
Julie has often spoken about how motherhood changed her life, helping her stay grounded amidst the chaos of Hollywood. While she has kept much of her children’s lives private, it’s clear that family became her top priority, even after her marriage ended.
Divorce After 13 Years
In February 2018, Julie Bowen filed for divorce from Scott Phillips, citing irreconcilable differences. The divorce was finalized on September 13, 2018.
Financial Settlement
- Julie and Scott reportedly split $25 million in assets.
- Julie received over $13 million and retained a $3.1 million Los Angeles property.
- Scott walked away with approximately $12.3 million and their former marital home valued at $5.4 million.
This division was amicable, and both parties agreed on joint custody of their children.
Julie on Divorce
Julie has openly discussed how tough the divorce was—but also how motherhood became a powerful source of strength:
“The constant activity of raising three boys kept me from falling apart,” she said in an interview. “There wasn’t much time to dwell.”
She credits her sons for helping her stay strong, keeping her focused, and offering perspective during what was undoubtedly an emotionally taxing period.
Co-Parenting With Respect
Since their divorce, Julie and Scott have kept a respectful relationship focused on raising their children. In 2025, they reunited for their son Oliver’s high school graduation, sharing a light-hearted moment on social media—evidence of their amicable co-parenting dynamic.
Julie continues to show admiration for Scott’s role as a father, and fans appreciate their ability to put their differences aside for the sake of family.
Is Julie Bowen Dating Now?
As of 2025, Julie Bowen is single. She confirmed this during an appearance on The Ellen Show in 2022 and has consistently stated that she’s enjoying the freedom and focus that come with single life.
She jokes about her love life, saying that her sons are the only “men in her life” and that they’re “terrible dates” because “they never pay.”
Past Relationships
David Spade
Before marrying Scott, Julie briefly dated comedian David Spade in the early 2000s. She opened up about their relationship on his Fly on the Wall podcast in 2023, sharing how she was drawn to his humor and personality. Though the relationship didn’t last, they remain friends to this day.
Julie also joked on the Life is Short podcast that her sister was initially skeptical of her attraction to Spade—until attending one of his comedy shows, after which she said, “I’d f*** him too.”
Romantic Interest in a Woman
Julie once revealed on the Quitters podcast that although she identifies as straight, she had fallen in love with a woman in the past. The woman didn’t reciprocate those feelings, but the experience gave Julie a deeper understanding of love and the complexity of human connection.
“I was in love with a woman for a while, but she didn’t love me back,” Julie said. “It wasn’t about labels. It was about connection.”
Julie Today: Family, Philanthropy & Focus
Post-divorce, Julie Bowen has leaned into motherhood and philanthropy. She works with Feeding America and other nonprofits and continues to stay involved in entertainment projects, while balancing a very active home life with her three boys.
She has no current romantic partner and says she’s not actively seeking one. Instead, she’s focused on “this chapter” of her life: raising kind sons, enjoying her freedom, and finding joy in the everyday.
Final Thoughts
Julie Bowen’s love story with Scott Phillips may have ended in divorce, but their relationship left a lasting impact. Together, they built a family, navigated fame, and now co-parent with mutual respect. Her journey is a powerful example of how life after divorce can be full of grace, love, and new beginnings.
Whether single or not, Julie Bowen continues to be a role model of strength, honesty, and resilience—both on screen and off.
