Suzanne Elrod
| Suzanne Elrod | |
|---|---|
| |
| ' | |
| Born | 1950s |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Artist |
| Known for | Former partner of Leonard Cohen, mother of Adam and Lorca Cohen |
| Website | |
Suzanne Elrod is an American artist best known as the former partner of Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen and the mother of his two children, Adam Cohen and Lorca Cohen. She was a significant influence on Cohen's personal life and artistic work during the 1970s.
Early Life[edit]
Suzanne Elrod was born in the United States in the early 1950s. Little is publicly documented about her early life prior to meeting Leonard Cohen in the late 1960s.
Relationship with Leonard Cohen[edit]
Elrod met Leonard Cohen in 1969 when she was around 19 years old. According to several sources, their relationship began in New York City, where they are said to have met during a Scientology course. Though they never legally married, Cohen referred to Elrod as his “wife” in some interviews.
The couple had two children:
- Adam Cohen (b. 1972), a musician and producer
- Lorca Cohen (b. 1974), a photographer and videographer
They lived together in various locations, including New York, Nashville, and the Greek island of Hydra. Their relationship ended around 1978.
Influence on Leonard Cohen[edit]
Although often confused with the subject of Cohen’s song “Suzanne” (which was inspired by Suzanne Verdal), Elrod influenced other aspects of Cohen's songwriting. The track “The Gypsy's Wife” from his 1979 album Recent Songs is believed to be a reflection on the breakup of their relationship.
Life After Separation[edit]
After the separation, Elrod continued to raise their children, reportedly spending time in France. She has largely remained out of the public spotlight and leads a private life. As of 2025, no public record indicates that she is deceased.
Legacy[edit]
Though not a public figure herself, Suzanne Elrod remains notable in the cultural memory of Leonard Cohen's fans due to her direct impact on his family life and artistic output. Her children have also maintained a presence in the creative industries.
External Links[edit]
References[edit]
- https://marriedceleb.com/suzanne-elrod
- https://marriedwiki.com/wiki/suzanne-elrod
- https://dailytopnotch.com/opinion/is-suzanne-elrod-still-alive/
- https://thejc.com/life/being-leonard-cohens-son-its-not-all-hallelujahs-cuanl0kk
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Gypsy%27s_Wife