Candy Montgomery today remains a name that continues to stir curiosity decades after the infamous axe murder of Betty Gore in 1980. Her story, which blends suburban secrets, a brutal crime, and a controversial trial, has inspired documentaries, books, and dramatized series like Hulu’s Candy and HBO Max’s Love & Death. But what has become of Candy Montgomery since the sensational headlines faded?
In this in-depth article, we explore where Candy Montgomery is now, her life after the trial, and the long-term societal impact of her case. From her low-profile lifestyle to renewed media interest, here’s everything you need to know about Candy Montgomery today.
The Candy Montgomery Case: A Quick Recap
Before we dive into Candy Montgomery’s present-day status, it’s important to understand the crime that catapulted her into the national spotlight.
In June 1980, Candy Montgomery was accused of brutally murdering her friend and fellow church member, Betty Gore, in Wylie, Texas. According to court records, Gore was struck with an axe 41 times. Candy claimed she acted in self-defense after an altercation over an extramarital affair with Betty’s husband, Allan Gore.
Her trial was a media spectacle. Despite the gruesome nature of the crime, Candy Montgomery was acquitted of murder charges, sparking outrage and disbelief across the country.
Where Is Candy Montgomery Today?
Post-Trial Life and Name Change
After her 1980 acquittal, Candy Montgomery quickly faded from public view. She reportedly moved from Texas to Georgia and resumed life under a new identity. It’s widely believed she changed her name to Candace Wheeler, using her maiden name and avoiding media attention.
New Career Path in Mental Health
Candy didn’t return to her former life as a housewife. Instead, she pursued a career in mental health counseling, working alongside her husband Pat Montgomery — who initially stood by her during the trial. As of recent reports, she has been working as a family therapist or counselor, helping others navigate trauma — a striking turn given her past.
Is Candy Montgomery Still Alive?
Yes, Candy Montgomery is alive today, and while she maintains a private life, public records and journalist investigations confirm her continued existence. She is believed to be living in Georgia, well into her 70s, and has remained mostly outside the spotlight — until the recent media revivals brought her story back into focus.
What Happened to Her Family?
Her Husband: Pat Montgomery
Following the trial, Candy’s husband, Pat Montgomery, who had supported her throughout the case, reportedly divorced her a few years later. His current whereabouts remain private, and he has never spoken publicly about the incident since.
Her Children
Candy had two children — a son and a daughter — who were young at the time of the murder. Out of respect for their privacy, their names and current lives have been mostly withheld from public documentation. They were shielded from media coverage at the time, and little is known about them today.
Media Resurgence: Hulu’s Candy and HBO’s Love & Death
The story of Candy Montgomery has been the subject of renewed interest in the 2020s. Two major dramatized series focused on the events of 1980:
Hulu’s Candy (2022)
Starring Jessica Biel, this five-episode series explored the lead-up to the crime and trial. It painted a psychological portrait of Candy and drew attention to the societal norms of 1980s suburban life.
HBO Max’s Love & Death (2023)
Starring Elizabeth Olsen, this dramatization took a slightly more empathetic approach, delving into Candy’s emotional state, upbringing, and the mental unraveling that led to Betty Gore’s murder.
Both series have reignited debates about justice, morality, and the psychology of female violence, especially in domestic settings.
Public Reaction and Cultural Impact
The Candy Montgomery case remains one of the most debated true crime stories in U.S. history. Key points of ongoing interest include:
- Self-defense in domestic crimes
- Media bias in female-led violent crimes
- Mental health discussions in courtrooms
Her acquittal shocked the public then — and still does today. Many see it as a case study in how race, gender, and social standing influence legal outcomes.
Why the Case Still Resonates Today
Even over four decades later, people continue to Google “Candy Montgomery today” for several reasons:
- True crime fascination: With the popularity of crime podcasts, documentaries, and shows, her case is a prime subject.
- Moral ambiguity: The case isn’t black and white, which intrigues many.
- Psychological complexity: Her story opens up discussions around mental health, marriage, and suppressed emotions.
Recent Sightings and Public Information
There are no confirmed photos or interviews of Candy Montgomery post-1980, but various journalists and investigators claim she’s kept a low profile. A few tabloids and blog reports have alleged recent sightings, but none have been authenticated.
Attempts to contact her for interviews have been largely unsuccessful, reinforcing the perception that Candy wants to remain completely out of the public eye.
FAQs About Candy Montgomery Today
Q1: What is Candy Montgomery’s new name?
A: She now goes by Candace Wheeler, which is her maiden name.
Q2: Is Candy Montgomery still married?
A: No, she and her husband Pat Montgomery reportedly divorced after the trial.
Q3: Where does Candy Montgomery live now?
A: She is believed to be living in Georgia, maintaining a private life.
Q4: What does Candy Montgomery do now?
A: She reportedly works as a mental health counselor or therapist.
Q5: Are there any interviews with Candy Montgomery today?
A: No verified interviews or recent photos of her have surfaced publicly.
Conclusion
Candy Montgomery today lives far from the spotlight that once engulfed her. Despite her infamous past, she appears to have carved out a new, quiet life centered around helping others — a profound contrast to the horror she was once associated with. Her story continues to captivate and confuse the public, reminding us of the fragile boundaries between ordinary lives and extraordinary crimes.
What do you think of Candy’s current life? Do you believe justice was served? Let us know your thoughts or explore our related articles for more true crime deep dives.
