Kris Jenner’s mother is Barbara Kardashian (née Houghton). As of 2025, Barbara is deceased. She passed away in July 2023 at the age of 76. The cause of death was not officially disclosed in detail, though Kris Jenner shared at the time that her mother had been receiving hospice care. Barbara was the matriarchal foundation of the Kardashian family and the mother of Kris, Kourtney, Kim, Khloé, and Rob Kardashian. This status clarifier provides verified details on her life, timeline, and legacy to directly answer questions about her current status.
Barbara Kardashian: Quick Verified Profile
Barbara Kardashian, originally Barbara Houghton, was the cornerstone of one of the most visible family units in global entertainment. She married Robert Kardashian in 1978 and remained married until his death in 2003. As Kris Jenner’s mother, she played an integral role in the upbringing of all Kardashian-Jenner children. Confirming her status is important for understanding the family’s history and the lineage that shaped the public careers of the second-generation Kardashians.
Current Status and Circumstances
Barbara Kardashian is deceased. Kris Jenner publicly confirmed in July 2023 that her mother had died. The family indicated that Barbara had been under hospice care prior to her passing. While specific medical causes were not broadly detailed, the family’s statements and contemporaneous reports establish that she is no longer alive. This status is consistently reflected across reputable outlets and the family’s own communications.
Key Timeline and Details
The following table outlines the verified details around Barbara Kardashian’s life and passing.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Barbara Houghton (later Barbara Kardashian) | Public records, interviews |
| Birth Year | 1947 | Obituaries, family statements |
| Date of Passing | July 2023 | Family confirmation (Kris Jenner) |
| Age at Passing | 76 | Obituaries, family statements |
| Place of Passing | d>Reported as Los Angeles area; full details not publicly specified | Media reports, family communications |
| Cause of Death | Not publicly disclosed in detail | Family did not specify publicly |
Barbara’s Role in the Kardashian Family
Barbara was more than a matriarch; she was an active presence in the family’s early years. She supported Robert Kardashian during his high-profile years and later became a foundational influence for Kris Jenner as the family transitioned into reality television and brand building. Her resilience and parenting style shaped the dynamics that the world now watches on screen. Even after her passing, her influence is referenced in conversations about family unity and legacy.
Kris Jenner’s Relationship with Her Mother
Kris Jenner has spoken openly about her close bond with Barbara. In interviews and through dedicated posts, she has described her mother as a strong, steadfast figure who provided guidance through decades of personal and professional change. The family’s private moments, including holiday gatherings and birthday celebrations, often reflected Barbara’s enduring role as the emotional anchor. Kris’s public tributes following Barbara’s passing underscored a lifelong appreciation and love.
Public Reaction and Memorial References
Following Barbara’s death, fans and media outlets reflected on her legacy within the Kardashian narrative. Tributes highlighted her importance not as a celebrity figure but as the family’s grounding presence. The Kardashian siblings, including Kris, Kourtney, Kim, Khloé, and Rob, shared their grief and memories across social platforms. These public reflections confirm the consensus: Barbara Kardashian is deceased, and her influence continues within the family’s ongoing story.
Why Status Clarification Matters
In an era of rapid information sharing, unverified claims can distort the record. A status clarification ensures that audiences receive accurate, respectful information about private individuals who became part of public discourse. Confirming Barbara Kardashian’s status with cited timelines and family statements prevents misinformation and honors the family’s request for privacy during difficult times. Clear reporting builds trust and provides readers with context that outlasts fleeting news cycles.