Naomi Judd was born Diana Ellen Judd on January 11, 1946 in Ashland, Kentucky.
As a single mother on social assistance, Naomi first worked as a registered nurse in her native Kentucky to support her daughters, Ashley Judd and Wynonna Judd. Although youngest daughter, Ashley was the actress of the family, Naomi soon learned that daughter, Wynonna had inherited her mother’s musical abilities, and the two paired up as country music duo, The Judds.
Within six years of their debut in the mid-80s, The Judds sold over 20 million records worldwide and garnered sixty industry awards – including nine Country Music Association Awards, five Grammys, and eight Billboard Music Awards. As country music legends, the Judds have been named two of the "40 Greatest Women of Country Music" by CMT, and still retain a solid fan base despite parting professionally in the early 90s.
In 1991, Naomi was diagnosed with Hepatitis C, which forced her into an early retirement from The Judds. The Judds’ Farewell tour concert became the most successful music event in pay-per-view history, and was highlighted by the emotional performance of their signature hit song, Love Can Build a Bridge.
Now away from the spotlight, Naomi focused on using her name to create awareness of Hepatitis C and raise research funds for the American Liver Foundation. The same year she retired, Naomi went to work founding the Naomi Judd Education and Research Fund. Today, Naomi has been completely cured of Hepatitis C, which she attributes to her spiritual convictions and prayers. Remaining close to the cause, Naomi currently serves as spokesperson for the America Liver Foundation. She is also a frequent guest-speaker on the topics of personal growth, women’s health, and family at various conventions and seminars; in addition to campaigns and Capitol Hill hearings.
Naomi also lends her voice to anti-violence programs such as the Safe School Summit and the Women's World Peace Initiative; as well as serving on the board of M.A.D.D. (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), USA Weekend's Make a Difference Day, and supporting Kids on Stage, a school program that promotes the arts.
In addition to her 1992 best-selling autobiography Love Can Build a Bridge, Naomi has also penned Breakthrough Guide: 20 Choices to Transform Your Life in 2004. The self-help guide encourages readers to gain control of their life by assuming responsibility for their actions.
In 1999 Naomi starred as Lily Waite alongside Andy Griffith and Gerald McRaney in the film A Holiday Romance.
Naomi has been a registered Republican for many years and is a supporter of the George W Bush administration.
In November 2005, Naomi became the host of her own talk show, "Naomi's New Morning", which appears on Sunday mornings on the Hallmark Channel.
