Aaah, weddings. Two happy souls, starry-eyed and in love, vowing to stay together until the end. It’s a dream we all love to root for—though in Hollywood, marriages tend to come with a heavy dose of drama. More often than not, couples are better known for dramatic splits than for saying “I do” to forever. Yet, there are some A-list pairs who have not only made it work but have shown us what Hollywood romance can look like at its best. So, here’s a toast to love that lasts. Let’s dive into these legendary marriages that stood the test of Tinseltown!
Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, 1988
America’s sweetheart Tom Hanks met his match in the delightful Rita Wilson in 1981 on the set of Bosom Buddies. Though it started as friendship—Tom was still married to Samantha Lewes—Hanks and Wilson just “clicked,” and by 1988, they were hitched! Tom, who says marriage isn’t magic but hard work, credits Rita with helping him grow into a man he’s proud to be. And for Rita, his humor and storytelling have kept her smitten ever since.
Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan, 1988
Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan’s love story is one that could rival any Hollywood romance. The two first met in 1985 when Pollan guest-starred as Fox’s girlfriend on Family Ties. They had instant chemistry, and when they reconnected a couple of years later, it was clear they were meant to be together. They tied the knot in 1988 and have been each other’s rock ever since.
Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne, 1982
Ozzy Osbourne and Sharon didn’t just find each other; they survived each other. Ozzy was notoriously unpredictable and struggled with addiction, even getting arrested in 1989 for attempting to harm Sharon in a blackout. But somehow, these two continued to find their way back to each other. Their marriage is messy, intense, and proof that sometimes, “till death do us part” is a challenge they’re still figuring out together.
Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross, 1984
When Sam Elliott first laid eyes on Katharine Ross in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid in 1969, he was in awe—she was the leading lady; he was “Card Player #2.” Fast forward to 1978’s The Legacy, and this time Sam made his move, and the two finally connected. They’ve been together ever since, radiating a timeless Hollywood glamor that never goes out of style.
Jamie Lee Curtis and Christopher Guest, 1984
Jamie Lee Curtis saw a photo of a man in a magazine and declared, “I’m going to marry that man.” That man was comedian Christopher Guest. Though it took a few chance encounters to get them on the same page, they tied the knot in 1984. Jamie’s marriage advice? Treat it like a bus ride. Stick it out, even when the scenery isn’t what you wanted—it’ll change soon enough.
Denzel and Pauletta Washington, 1983
Denzel and Pauletta Washington’s love story began in 1977 on the set of Wilma. It took a couple of proposals (according to Pauletta) before she said yes, but in 1983 they became one of Hollywood’s longest-standing couples. Pauletta says Denzel’s charm isn’t just his looks—it’s his incredible personality. We’d say they’re a powerhouse couple in every sense.
Samuel L. Jackson and LaTanya Richardson, 1980
Samuel L. Jackson and LaTanya Richardson are living proof that love can withstand anything—even Samuel’s colorful language! The two met in college, and since 1980, they’ve been a team through thick, thin, and everything in between. LaTanya was Samuel’s rock during his struggles with addiction, and together, they’ve championed the idea that commitment means working through the hardest parts.
Dolly Parton and Carl Dean, 1966
The legendary Dolly Parton and her incredibly private husband Carl Dean are opposites in every way. Dolly’s a superstar; Carl’s a quiet guy who stays out of the spotlight. They first met outside a laundromat in 1964, and Carl knew immediately he’d marry her. Their secret? Despite Dolly’s fame, they keep their private lives just that—private. And for Dolly, there’s nobody else but Carl.
Bob Newhart and Virginia Quinn, 1963
Comedian Bob Newhart and his wife, Virginia Quinn, made each other laugh since they met on a blind date set up by a friend in 1962. Married for nearly six decades, Bob credited humor as their secret ingredient. Laughter, he said, is a pretty great foundation for a lifelong partnership, and we have to agree. Sadly, both have since passed, she in April 2023, and he the following year, but in addition to their wickedly creative minds, they also left behind a standard that all couples can aspire to.
Alan Alda and Arlene Weiss, 1957
Alan Alda met his wife, Arlene, at a college party over a fallen rum cake they decided to eat off the floor. A year later, in 1957, they were married. Alan says that a promise is a promise, and the “deal” he and Arlene made to stay together has held true through it all. They’re a testament to the belief that when you find the right one, you hold on.
It’s easy to be cynical about Hollywood love stories when we see breakups left and right. But these couples remind us that real love is possible—even in Tinseltown! Whether through laughter, resilience, or just sheer devotion, they made it last. Do you have a favorite Hollywood couple who’s still going strong? Who’s their secret sauce for love that lasts?
