Heather Locklear's Storied Dating History Includes Rockstars and Co-Stars

The Melrose Place actress has been linked to a number of high-profile partners over the decades.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 6:06am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme macro photograph of shimmering sequins and glittering disco ball fragments, captured in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting to create a glamorous, high-fashion aesthetic without depicting any literal objects or people.The dazzling textures of celebrity culture are captured in this abstract close-up, hinting at the high-profile relationships that have defined Heather Locklear's storied dating history.Santa Barbara Today

Heather Locklear's dating history reads like a who's who of 1980s and 1990s celebrity culture, with the actress being linked to musicians like Tommy Lee and Richie Sambora, as well as her Melrose Place co-star Jack Wagner. After two marriages and several high-profile engagements, Locklear has remained on good terms with many of her former partners.

Why it matters

Locklear's dating history provides a glimpse into the personal lives of celebrities from an era when tabloid culture was exploding. Her marriages to Lee and Sambora, in particular, captured public attention and fascination. The story also highlights the ability of some former couples to maintain amicable relationships after the end of their romantic involvement.

The details

Locklear's first high-profile romance was with Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee, whom she met at a REO Speedwagon concert. The pair married in 1986 but divorced in 1993 after less than a decade together. Following the split, Locklear moved on with another rockstar, Aerosmith guitarist Richie Sambora. Locklear and Sambora wed in 1994 and welcomed a daughter, Ava, in 1997, before separating in 2006 and finalizing their divorce the following year.

  • Locklear and Lee met at a REO Speedwagon concert and married in 1986.
  • Locklear and Lee divorced in 1993 after less than a decade of marriage.
  • Locklear and Sambora married in 1994 and welcomed daughter Ava in 1997.
  • Locklear and Sambora separated in 2006 and finalized their divorce in 2007.

The players

Heather Locklear

An American actress best known for her roles on the television shows Melrose Place and Spin City.

Tommy Lee

The drummer for the heavy metal band Mötley Crüe, who was married to Locklear from 1986 to 1993.

Richie Sambora

The guitarist for the rock band Aerosmith, who was married to Locklear from 1994 to 2007.

Jack Wagner

An American actor who co-starred with Locklear on the television series Melrose Place and was briefly engaged to her in 2011.

Chris Heisser

Locklear's former high school boyfriend, with whom she rekindled a relationship in the 2010s before quietly splitting in 2025.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You know in Risky Business where he does that dance in his underwear and does the splits? We were dancing at a club and he went into that. He started doing the splits. You just kind of stand there and don't know what to do. Do you dance around him?”

— Heather Locklear

The takeaway

Locklear's dating history provides a fascinating look at the personal lives of celebrities during the height of tabloid culture, with the actress navigating high-profile relationships with musicians, co-stars, and former flames. Despite the ups and downs, Locklear has maintained amicable relationships with many of her ex-partners, showcasing the ability of some former couples to move forward in a positive way.