Art Garfunkel – Age, Net Worth, Wife, Son and Biography

Art Garfunkel is one of the most recognisable voices in popular music. As one half of Simon & Garfunkel, he helped define the folk-rock sound of the 1960s. Decades later, his career continues to generate curiosity about his age, his family, and his relationship with Paul Simon.

Born Arthur Ira Garfunkel in Queens, New York, on November 5, 1941, the singer, actor, and poet remains active in music. Here is a clear, fact-based look at his life, work, and legacy.

How old is Art Garfunkel?

Art Garfunkel was born on November 5, 1941, which makes him 84 years old in 2025. This is confirmed by both Britannica and Biography.com. He grew up in the Forest Hills neighbourhood of Queens and attended Columbia University, where he studied mathematics and architecture before pursuing music full-time.

Key insights about Art Garfunkel

• Art Garfunkel is 84 years old as of 2025 and continues to perform and record.
• His estimated net worth is reported in many outlets at approximately $95 million, though no official figure has been confirmed by Garfunkel himself.
• He has been married to Kim Cermak since 1988; the couple has two sons, James and Beau Daniel Garfunkel.
• His most famous work remains with Simon & Garfunkel, including songs such as “The Sound of Silence” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water.”
• Garfunkel and Paul Simon met as schoolboys and performed together as teenagers under the name Tom & Jerry.
• After the duo parted ways, Garfunkel built a successful solo career and also appeared in films such as Carnal Knowledge.
• His 2025 single release shows he remains active in the music industry.

Who is Art Garfunkel’s wife?

Garfunkel married Kim Cermak in 1988. They met in 1985. According to Wikipedia and IMDb, she is also referred to as Kathryn “Kim” Cermak. The couple remains married as of 2025.

Before Kim, Garfunkel was briefly married to Linda Grossman in the early 1970s. Different sources provide slightly different dates; Britannica describes the marriage as brief, while IMDb lists it as lasting from 1972 to 1975.

Does Art Garfunkel have children?

Yes. Garfunkel has two sons with Kim Garfunkel. Their eldest is James Garfunkel, who is also known as Art Garfunkel Jr. and has pursued a career in singing, following his father’s path. The couple’s second son is Beau Daniel Garfunkel, as listed by IMDb and Portuguese Wikipedia.

What are Art Garfunkel’s most famous songs?

Garfunkel’s legacy is anchored in the songs he recorded with Paul Simon. The duo’s major hits include “The Sound of Silence,” “Mrs. Robinson,” “The Boxer,” and “Scarborough Fair.” These tracks are widely considered some of the best-loved recordings of the 1960s and 1970s. The official Art Garfunkel website lists these as key works from the partnership.

As a solo artist, Garfunkel achieved success with songs such as “Bright Eyes,” “All I Know,” and “I Only Have Eyes for You.” These recordings demonstrated that his voice could stand alone, separate from the Simon & Garfunkel catalogue.

What is Art Garfunkel’s connection to Paul Simon?

Garfunkel and Paul Simon met as schoolboys in Queens, New York. They began performing together as teenagers under the name Tom & Jerry, as noted by Encyclopedia.com and the official biography. Their partnership grew into one of the most influential singing duos in popular music history.

The chemistry between Simon’s songwriting and Garfunkel’s soaring tenor produced a string of classic albums and singles. However, the relationship has been marked by periods of tension and separation. The duo split in 1970 after the release of Bridge Over Troubled Water, though they have reunited for several performances over the decades, including a major reunion tour in 2003 and 2004.

Art Garfunkel timeline: Key life events

1. 1941 – Born in Queens, New York.
2. 1956 – Meets Paul Simon at school.
3. 1964 – Release of Wednesday Morning, 3 AM, the first Simon & Garfunkel album.
4. 1965 – “The Sound of Silence” becomes a major hit.
5. 1970 – Bridge Over Troubled Water is released; the duo splits.
6. 1973 – Releases first solo album Angel Clare.
7. 1988 – Marries Kim Cermak.
8. 1990 – Son Beau Daniel Garfunkel is born.
9. 2003 – Simon & Garfunkel embark on a reunion tour.
10. 2025 – Garfunkel releases a new single, continuing his active career.

What is known and what remains unclear about Art Garfunkel?

What is the context of Garfunkel’s career?

Art Garfunkel occupies a unique position in popular music. His vocal style, often described as an ethereal tenor, became the hallmark of the folk-rock movement. The Simon & Garfunkel sound blended Simon’s intricate lyrics with Garfunkel’s precise harmonies, setting a standard for vocal duos.

Beyond music, Garfunkel pursued acting, appearing in Mike Nichols’ film Carnal Knowledge alongside Jack Nicholson. He also published poetry and earned a master’s degree in mathematics education, reflecting a diverse intellectual life. His continued release of music in 2025 suggests he remains creatively engaged.

Sources and notable quotes about Art Garfunkel

Critics and writers have often praised Garfunkel’s voice. The Britannica biography refers to his “angelic tenor,” while the official website notes his “pure, soaring sound.” These descriptions underscore the central role his voice played in the duo’s success.

Garfunkel himself has discussed his approach to singing. In various interviews, he has emphasised the importance of breath control and emotional clarity in his performances. The primary sources for biographical information are the Britannica entry, the official biography, and Wikipedia. For discography details, the AllMusic profile provides comprehensive listings. His film credits are available on his IMDb page.

Summary: What is Art Garfunkel’s legacy in 2025?

At 84, Art Garfunkel remains a towering figure in folk rock. His voice defined an era, and his partnership with Paul Simon produced some of the most enduring recordings in popular music. With a family life that includes his wife Kim and their two sons, and a career that still produces new work, Garfunkel’s story continues to evolve. For readers interested in other iconic musicians, the biography of Janet Jackson – Complete Biography, Net Worth, Songs and Legacy in 2025 offers another deep dive into a legendary artist’s life.

Frequently asked questions about Art Garfunkel