Delilah DiCrescenzo's Husband: The Real Story Beyond 'Hey There Delilah'

Prof. Sigrid Volkman 07 Jul 2025

For many, the name Delilah DiCrescenzo immediately conjures images of a beloved pop song, the iconic "Hey There Delilah" by the Plain White T's. This catchy tune, which flooded airwaves in the summer of 2007, introduced millions to a woman who, for a time, became synonymous with long-distance love and yearning. Yet, beyond the lyrics and the fame, Delilah DiCrescenzo is a real person with a remarkable life, an accomplished athletic career, and a personal story that extends far beyond a hit song. One of the most common questions that arises for those intrigued by her story is: who is Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband? The answer, surprisingly, is often shrouded in misconceptions, fueled by the very song that brought her into the public eye.

This article aims to unravel the true narrative surrounding Delilah DiCrescenzo's personal life, particularly her marital status. We will delve into her impressive background as an American distance runner, clarify the enduring myths surrounding the inspiration for "Hey There Delilah," and definitively answer the question of who her husband is, addressing common confusions along the way. Join us as we explore the life of a woman who is both a celebrated athlete and an unwitting muse, providing a comprehensive and accurate insight into her world.

Who is Delilah DiCrescenzo? A Glimpse into Her Life and Career

Before diving into the details of Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband, it's essential to understand the woman herself. Delilah DiCrescenzo, born on February 9, 1983, in Chicago, Illinois, US, is far more than just the subject of a famous song. She is an accomplished American distance runner, known for her incredible achievements in the world of athletics.

Delilah's journey in sports began early. She attended Queen of Peace High School in Burbank, Illinois, where she graduated in 2001. Her athletic prowess was evident even then, laying the groundwork for her future career. Following high school, she pursued higher education at Columbia University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in sociology in 2005. Her commitment to academic excellence continued, as she later received her master's degree in sports management in May 2011, also from Columbia University.

In her professional athletic career, Delilah DiCrescenzo specializes in the women's 3000 metres steeplechase, a demanding track and field event that combines distance running with obstacles and water jumps. Her dedication and talent have earned her a respected place among American runners. While the song "Hey There Delilah" brought her widespread public recognition, it was her athletic achievements that truly defined her professional identity long before and continued long after the song's peak fame.

Delilah DiCrescenzo: Personal Data & Biodata

To provide a clear overview of this remarkable individual, here is a summary of her personal and professional data:

Category	Detail
Full Name	Delilah DiCrescenzo
Date of Birth	February 9, 1983
Age (as of 2023)	40 years old
Place of Birth	Chicago, Illinois, US
Hometown	Burbank, Illinois
Nationality	American
Height	5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
Profession	Distance Runner
Specialty	3000 metres steeplechase
High School	Queen of Peace High School (Graduated 2001)
Undergraduate Education	Columbia University (BA in Sociology, 2005)
Graduate Education	Columbia University (Master's in Sports Management, 2011)
Spouse	Paul Scarborough
Marriage Year	2016
Children	One child

The "Hey There Delilah" Phenomenon: Fact vs. Fiction

The story of "Hey There Delilah" is perhaps the most famous chapter in Delilah DiCrescenzo's public narrative, yet it's also the source of significant confusion regarding her personal life, including the identity of Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband. The song, a global sensation, earned the Plain White T's two Grammy nominations and captivated audiences with its heartfelt lyrics about a long-distance relationship.

The genesis of the song is well-documented. Tom Higgenson, the lead vocalist of the Plain White T's, was introduced to Delilah DiCrescenzo by a mutual friend in 2006. Higgenson was reportedly smitten upon meeting her. Despite his immediate interest, there was a crucial detail: Delilah already had a boyfriend. This fact, however, did not deter Higgenson. He was so inspired by her that he told her he intended to write a song about her. True to his word, he penned "Hey There Delilah."

What's vital to understand is the disconnect between the song's narrative and reality. While the song depicts a romantic connection between the singer and Delilah, in truth, as Higgenson himself later admitted, he had no romantic connection with her. The lyrics were a romanticized fantasy, a testament to his infatuation rather than a reflection of an actual relationship. This distinction is paramount because the song's immense popularity led many to assume that Tom Higgenson was, or became, Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband, or at least her romantic partner. This is a significant misconception that needs to be clarified.

For Delilah, the summer of 2007 was undoubtedly surreal. Her name, once primarily known within athletic circles, was suddenly being sung by millions worldwide. She became a cultural icon, an unwitting muse for a generation. The fame brought by the song was undeniable, but it also blurred the lines between her real life and the fictionalized one portrayed in the lyrics. This blurring effect has contributed to the ongoing curiosity and sometimes inaccurate assumptions about Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband.

Unraveling the Mystery: Who is Delilah DiCrescenzo's Husband?

Given the widespread fame brought by "Hey There Delilah" and the subsequent public interest in her life, the question of who Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband is has been a consistent point of curiosity. While the song might lead some to believe she ended up with Tom Higgenson, or perhaps another public figure, the reality is grounded in a more private, yet equally inspiring, love story.

The definitive answer to "Who is Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband?" is **Paul Scarborough**. Paul Scarborough is a former professional baseball player, a detail that aligns well with Delilah's own background in professional athletics. The couple exchanged vows in 2016, marking a significant milestone in their lives. Since their marriage, Delilah DiCrescenzo and Paul Scarborough have also welcomed one child together, building a family away from the constant glare of the spotlight that often accompanies celebrity relationships.

Their union represents a partnership built on shared experiences, likely including an understanding of the demands and dedication required in professional sports. While Delilah's fame stems partly from a song that wasn't about her actual romantic life, her real-life partnership with Paul Scarborough is a testament to genuine connection and commitment. This relationship, though less publicized than the "Hey There Delilah" narrative, is the authentic foundation of her personal life today.

Addressing the Misconceptions: Tom Higgenson and Paul "Pauly D" DelVecchio

The journey to accurately identify Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband often involves navigating through several common misconceptions. The internet, while a vast source of information, can also be a breeding ground for misinformation, especially when it comes to public figures. Two names frequently surface in discussions about Delilah DiCrescenzo's romantic life that are incorrect: Tom Higgenson and Paul "Pauly D" DelVecchio.

The Tom Higgenson Misconception

As discussed earlier, the most prevalent misconception is that Tom Higgenson, the lead singer of the Plain White T's, is Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband. This belief is entirely understandable, given that he wrote a hugely successful song bearing her name and seemingly about a romantic pursuit. However, as established, the song was a product of Higgenson's infatuation and creative license, not a reflection of a reciprocal romantic relationship. At the time the song was written, Delilah already had a boyfriend, and she and Higgenson had no romantic connection. This fact is crucial for understanding the true nature of their interaction and for debunking the myth that they eventually married. While their names are inextricably linked in pop culture history, their relationship was never romantic, and certainly, he is not Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband.

The Paul "Pauly D" DelVecchio Confusion

Another, perhaps more perplexing, misconception that sometimes appears online is the claim that Delilah DiCrescenzo is married to Paul "Pauly D" DelVecchio, an American television personality and DJ, famous for his role in the reality show *Jersey Shore*. This claim is demonstrably false and appears to be a case of mistaken identity, likely due to the shared first name "Paul" and the general confusion that can arise in online biographical data.

Paul "Pauly D" DelVecchio has a very public profile and his relationships have been widely documented in the media. There is no credible information or evidence to suggest any romantic involvement, let alone marriage, between him and Delilah DiCrescenzo. Their careers and public personas are vastly different, with Delilah rooted in professional athletics and Paulie D in reality television and music entertainment. It's important for readers to be aware of such inaccuracies and to rely on verified information when seeking details about public figures like Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband.

Delilah DiCrescenzo and Paul Scarborough: A Partnership in Life

While the world might know Delilah DiCrescenzo through the lens of a famous song, her true story, particularly concerning Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband, lies in her life with Paul Scarborough. Their marriage in 2016 and the subsequent arrival of their child signify a deep and meaningful partnership that extends beyond the public eye. Understanding the dynamics of their relationship offers a more complete picture of Delilah's life.

Both Delilah and Paul have backgrounds in professional sports, which likely provides a unique foundation for their relationship. They understand the discipline, dedication, and sacrifices required to pursue excellence in a highly competitive field. This shared experience can foster a profound level of empathy and support for each other's endeavors, whether those are athletic pursuits, career transitions, or the challenges of family life.

In a world where celebrity relationships are often scrutinized, Delilah and Paul appear to maintain a relatively private life. This discretion allows them to build their family and relationship away from the constant speculation that Delilah experienced during the peak of "Hey There Delilah's" fame. Their ability to navigate public interest while safeguarding their personal space speaks volumes about their grounded approach to life.

The support they provide each other is undoubtedly mutual. For Delilah, having a partner who understands the unique pressures and triumphs of an athletic career, and who also navigates the complexities of post-professional life, is invaluable. Similarly, Paul likely benefits from Delilah's resilience, determination, and her unique perspective shaped by both athletic achievement and an unexpected brush with pop culture immortality. Their love story, though not immortalized in a chart-topping song, continues to inspire those who appreciate genuine partnership and the quiet strength of a shared life.

The Enduring Legacy of Delilah DiCrescenzo

Delilah DiCrescenzo's legacy is multifaceted. On one hand, she is forever etched into pop culture history as the muse behind one of the most memorable songs of the 2000s. This connection has ensured her name remains recognizable to millions, far beyond the confines of the athletic world. The fact that people are still talking about "the girl from the popular tune" years after its release, even as it was in the running for two Grammy awards, is a testament to its enduring impact.

However, it is crucial to remember that her primary legacy is that of an accomplished athlete. Her career as an American distance runner, particularly in the 3000 metres steeplechase, showcases years of rigorous training, perseverance, and competitive spirit. She achieved her master's degree in sports management, demonstrating a continued commitment to the world of athletics beyond active competition. Her life before, during, and after the song's fame was and continues to be defined by her dedication to her sport and her personal growth.

Delilah DiCrescenzo's story serves as a fascinating case study in how public perception can diverge from personal reality. She navigated the unexpected surge of fame with grace, maintaining her focus on her athletic goals and eventually building a family life with Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband, Paul Scarborough. Her journey highlights the importance of looking beyond superficial narratives to appreciate the depth and complexity of an individual's true identity and accomplishments. She is a name that resonates with athletes and fans alike, not just because of a song, but because of her genuine achievements and the authentic life she has built.

Frequently Asked Questions About Delilah DiCrescenzo

Here are some frequently asked questions that shed more light on Delilah DiCrescenzo and her life, particularly concerning Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband:

Is Delilah DiCrescenzo still running professionally?
While Delilah DiCrescenzo had a distinguished career as a distance runner, information on her current professional competitive status is less public. Like many athletes, she transitioned from full-time competition, but her connection to the sport likely remains strong, especially given her master's degree in sports management.
Did Delilah DiCrescenzo ever meet Tom Higgenson after the song became famous?
Yes, they did meet. As the Today Show reports, the real Delilah, Delilah DiCrescenzo, was introduced to Tom Higgenson by a mutual friend. Even after the song's success, they maintained an acquaintance, though their relationship never became romantic, reinforcing that he is not Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband.
How did Delilah DiCrescenzo react to the song "Hey There Delilah"?
Initially, she was surprised and perhaps a bit overwhelmed by the song's sudden fame and its personal nature. However, she has generally handled the situation with good humor and grace, acknowledging the song's impact while also clarifying the reality of her relationship with Tom Higgenson.
What does Delilah DiCrescenzo do now?
Beyond her athletic career, Delilah DiCrescenzo holds a master's degree in sports management. While specific current professional roles are not widely publicized, she likely remains involved in the sports industry in some capacity, balancing her professional interests with her family life with Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband, Paul Scarborough, and their child.
How many children does Delilah DiCrescenzo have with her husband?
Delilah DiCrescenzo and her husband, Paul Scarborough, have one child together.

Conclusion

Delilah DiCrescenzo's story is a compelling blend of athletic achievement, unexpected celebrity, and a grounded personal life. While the catchy tune "Hey There Delilah" brought her name into millions of homes, it also inadvertently created a web of misconceptions about her romantic life. We've clarified that the song's inspiration, Tom Higgenson, was never Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband, nor was the reality TV star Paul "Pauly D" DelVecchio.

The truth, as often is the case, is both simpler and more profound. Delilah DiCrescenzo's husband is Paul Scarborough, a former professional baseball player. Their marriage in 2016 and the birth of their child signify a genuine partnership built on shared experiences and mutual support, far removed from the fictionalized romance of a pop song. Delilah continues to be an inspiration, not just for her athletic prowess but for her ability to navigate public curiosity with grace, maintaining her true identity as an accomplished individual and a devoted family woman.

We hope this article has provided a comprehensive and accurate insight into the life of Delilah DiCrescenzo, shedding light on her incredible journey and definitively answering the question of who her husband is. If you found this information insightful, we encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments below or explore other articles on our site that delve into the lives of inspiring public figures.

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