Denzel Washington’s marriage to Pauletta Washington, 73, is a testament to the fact that relationships can withstand pressure when both parties are committed to putting in the necessary effort, according to experts in Hollywood marriages. The couple has been married for approximately 40 years.
“We work at it,” said Pauletta Washington during an interview with PEOPLE at their son’s directorial debut at the Toronto Film Festival on September 10. “There are a lot of prayers for strength and forgiveness on both our parts. But it’s the fundamental love that we have for each other.”
The couple’s identities are closely intertwined in public. For instance, they walked the red carpet together at the film festival this week to support their youngest son Malcolm Washington’s premiere of “The Piano Lesson,” which he directed.
According to relationship consultant Stephanie Mintz, effort is crucial regardless of how long a couple has been married. “Effort is needed to maintain strong communication, connection, passion, intimacy, and most importantly, fun!” she explained.
Denzel Washington himself has had a successful acting career spanning four decades and has received numerous accolades including an Academy Award for Best Actor in 2002. In fact, The New York Times named him the greatest actor of the 21st century in 2020.
Mintz emphasized that teamwork and open communication are imperative for couples. It is essential that they are completely honest with each other and discuss how they handle situations as well as their individual needs and desires.
Nicole Moore, a celebrity love coach and relationship expert, suggested that Denzel Washington’s enduring presence in Hollywood may be attributed partly to his wife’s constant support. A successful marriage serves as a status symbol boost for actors since audiences tend to trust them more if they believe they have found love successfully.
Pauletta Washington acknowledged her strong connection with her husband during her interview with PEOPLE. The couple tied the knot in June 1983 and have four children together: John David (40), Katia (37), Malcolm (33), and Olivia (33).
“The origins of this strong connection lie within two people who have chosen to pursue it,” stated divorce attorney Diana Arnone. She added that once couples stop pursuing their relationship actively, it begins deteriorating.
“The Piano Lesson” is an adaptation of August Wilson’s Broadway play by the same name. It stars John David Washington alongside non-family members Samuel Jackson, Matrell Smith,and Erykah Badu.The film revolves around what decisions the Charles family makes regarding their heirloom piano.
Making a marriage work with a movie star requires patience,trusting one’s spouse,and understanding about Hollywood career demands,said Moore.MalcolmWashington declinedto speculate further about his parents’relationship but mentionedthatthey genuinely love each otherandheis tryingto learntheir secret saucefor success.
