Every marriage faces its own challenges, but when you add the pressures of fame, constant travel, and public scrutiny, even the strongest unions can feel the strain. Many celebrities know this all too well, yet some have defied the odds. 26Stars Open Up About

Take Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell, for instance, or Rob Lowe and Sheryl Berkoff. Then there’s Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, who have all successfully maintained their relationships for decades. These couples attribute their longevity to a mix of good communication, knowing when to de-escalate disagreements, and an unshakeable bond that no external forces can weaken.

So, what are the relationship rules that keep these Hollywood couples thriving? From prioritising quality time together to respecting each other’s individuality, these stars have established essential ground rules that help them navigate the complexities of love in the limelight.

Dive into the insights of these 26 celebrity couples and discover the secrets to their enduring partnerships.

The Enduring Romance of Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell

Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell: The Secrets Behind Their Enduring 40-Year Love Story

Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell are true icons of Hollywood, and according to Hawn, the key to their remarkable 40-plus-year relationship is surprisingly straightforward: exceptional intimacy.

In a September interview with E! News at MindUP’s The Goldie Hawn Foundation charity event, Hawn emphasized the importance of a fulfilling sexual connection. “You have to have great ultimate,” she said. “It fosters a sense of connection and belonging. Couples who maintain healthy sxual relationships tend to stay together much longer.”

Hawn further elaborated that it’s not just about the physical act itself; it’s the warmth and intimacy it fosters that deepens their bond. This perspective sheds light on the foundation of their lasting partnership, proving that love thrives on both emotional and physical connection.

Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen Share Secrets to Their 29-Year Marriage

After nearly three decades of marriage, Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen attribute the strength of their relationship to honesty, shared responsibilities, and a quick resolution to conflicts.

In a 2021 interview with PEOPLE, Danson emphasized the importance of truthfulness. “The only time I get upset with Mary is when I know I’m wrong,” he shared. Steenburgen playfully chimed in, saying, “But he’s wrong a lot!” Danson agreed, adding, “Anger usually arises from defensiveness or fear.”

When disagreements occur, Danson admitted that he’s often the first to extend an apology. “Although I usually start with, ‘Stop being mad,’ within the first few minutes of my apology,” he joked. Their lighthearted approach to conflict underscores the deep bond they share, showcasing how communication and humor contribute to their lasting partnership.

Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban: The Key to Their 17-Year Relationship

After 17 years together, Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban believe that the strength of their relationship lies in mutual contribution and commitment.

In a 2018 interview with PEOPLE, Kidman emphasized the importance of actively participating in their partnership. “It’s about recognizing that you need to keep adding to what we call the ‘us.’ You ask yourself, ‘Does this work for us?’” she explained.

Kidman elaborated that creating an “us” means developing a unique bond that belongs solely to the two of them. “What you build together is something no one else has—it’s your special connection,” she shared. This understanding has been fundamental to their lasting love, highlighting the significance of shared effort in a relationship.

Barbra Streisand and James Brolin: Navigating Love with Patience and Understanding

Barbra Streisand and James Brolin may have embarked on their romance later in life—Brolin was 56 and Streisand 54—but that hasn’t stopped them from fine-tuning their relationship over the years.

In a 2022 cover story for PEOPLE, Brolin shared insights on the importance of negotiation in a successful partnership. “Everyone needs to be a negotiator,” he remarked. “Patience is key, and knowing when to step away can make a difference.”

He added that understanding the sources of frustration and anger is crucial. “Recognizing where your emotions come from helps you calm down and find common ground,” Brolin explained. “No couple is immune to challenges, no matter how perfect they may appear.” Their approach highlights the significance of communication and empathy in maintaining a lasting love.

Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey: Their Key to Family Time Amidst Busy Schedules

Many successful celebrity couples adopt a version of the “two-week rule,” allowing them to maintain their connections despite hectic lifestyles. Susan Downey, married to Robert Downey Jr. since 2005, shared how this guideline has been essential for their family in an interview with PEOPLE.

“We adhere to a two-week rule, which can often feel like too long,” Susan revealed. “But we make sure not to go more than two weeks without seeing each other and being together as a family.” She emphasized the importance of establishing some fundamental routines while remaining flexible with the rest of their commitments. This approach helps them prioritize their relationship and family time amidst their busy lives.

Jamie Lee Curtis and Christopher Guest: Celebrating 40 Years of Marriage

As Jamie Lee Curtis and Christopher Guest approach their 40th wedding anniversary this December, Curtis recently shared a valuable lesson about their enduring relationship: “You don’t leave.”

In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, the Halloween actress reflected on her journey of sobriety and how it parallels marriage. “In recovery, we say, ‘If you stay on the bus, the scenery will change,’ and that applies to marriage,” she explained, noting the constant evolution of their partnership.

Curtis described how emotions can shift rapidly within a marriage. “One moment you might feel like you want to hate each other, and the next day, something sweet happens—like your dog being adorable or your child doing something cute—and suddenly you’re filled with love again,” she said.

With a touch of humor, she added, “So I believe perseverance, patience, gentleness, and a healthy dose of reality—and yes, even a bit of hatred—is essential.” Their lighthearted approach highlights the resilience and adaptability that have defined their long-lasting bond.

Bobby Berk and Dewey Do: Celebrating Love Every Day

For Bobby Berk and Dewey Do, the secret to their relationship lies in making each other feel cherished every single day.

“We celebrated our 20th anniversary in May, but we’ve never been big on anniversaries or birthdays,” Berk shared with PEOPLE at the One House Toast to the Emmys event in September. He humorously noted that they often relied on Facebook reminders to remember their anniversary.

The couple’s approach to special occasions is rooted in their belief that everyday celebrations matter more. “We love to take little weekend trips whenever we can,” Berk explained. “For instance, we recently traveled to Ireland, and around our anniversary, we were exploring Asia. So while we didn’t do anything specific for our anniversary, we celebrate each other daily.” Their commitment to daily affection showcases a beautiful philosophy of love that transcends traditional milestones.

Adam Brody on His Marriage to Leighton Meester: The Key to Lasting Love

For Adam Brody, marrying Leighton Meester was undoubtedly the best decision he’s ever made.

During a recent appearance on Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager’s show, Brody, who has been happily married to the Gossip Girl star for a decade, shared his insights on maintaining a strong marriage. He emphasized that the foundation of a successful relationship starts with making a wise choice of a partner.

When asked about the secret to their enduring union, Brody replied, “It’s all about picking the right person. Be fortunate enough to fall in love with someone amazing, and then just listen to them.”

He elaborated, “If you’re with someone great, you’re already ahead. Of course, it requires sacrifice, humility, and a willingness to grow together. You can’t stay exactly the same, but if you’re with someone wonderful, you’re already on the right path.” His reflections highlight the importance of mutual respect and adaptability in a lasting relationship.

Jerry and Jessica Seinfeld: The Key to Their Lasting Relationship

Jerry and Jessica Seinfeld’s love story began in 1998, and they have been happily married since December 1999. The couple attributes the strength of their relationship to their exceptional communication skills.

At the Good + Foundation’s 2019 Bash in Central Park, Jessica shared insights into their dynamic. “We’re all just regular people, and every relationship, especially in Hollywood, can be challenging, especially with the travel demands,” she explained. “Jerry travels frequently, which makes it essential to prioritize our time together and actively work on our relationship. He’s an incredible communicator, and he excels at nurturing our bond.”

She added, “Another important aspect is that we’re not codependent. We both have a strong work ethic and a deep passion for what we do.” Their commitment to open communication and independence has been fundamental in maintaining their enduring partnership.

Ree and Ladd Drummond: Secrets to a Happy Marriage

Ree Drummond, known as the Pioneer Woman, and her husband Ladd have been happily married for nearly 30 years. One of their key relationship rules is never to go to bed angry. They also have a unique way of staying connected.

“We don’t usually fall asleep in each other’s arms—we appreciate our space—but we always make sure our feet touch,” Ree shared with PEOPLE. “I believe that if our feet are touching before we drift off, it means we’re not going to bed upset. Even after a little disagreement, as long as our feet connect, everything is fine.”

This simple yet meaningful practice helps them maintain harmony and closeness in their relationship.

Elton John and David Furnish: The Key to Their Lasting Love

After more than 30 years together, Elton John and David Furnish adhere to a fundamental rule that keeps their relationship strong: “never go to bed angry.” Furnish shared this important principle with PEOPLE.

He explained that even if it means staying up until 3:00 a.m. to resolve a disagreement, they prioritize communication. “Before we go to bed, if there’s any tension or unresolved feelings, we make sure to address it,” he said. “We don’t want to carry any negativity into the next day.”

This commitment to resolving conflicts before sleep has been crucial in maintaining their deep connection.

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds: Prioritizing Togetherness

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds understand the challenges of maintaining a relationship in the entertainment industry, especially with their busy schedules as working actors. To stay connected, they established a crucial agreement early on: they wouldn’t work at the same time.

“When Ryan and I got together, we decided to make a rule about not working simultaneously to prioritize our personal life,” Blake shared with Entertainment Tonight. “It requires a lot of effort and careful planning to make that work, but it’s all about finding the right balance.”

This commitment to each other helps ensure that their relationship remains strong, even amidst the demands of their careers.

Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue: Lessons from a 40-Year Love Story

Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue shared a remarkable 40-year partnership until the beloved talk show host passed away on August 18, 2024, at the age of 88. In a 2020 interview with AARP Magazine, they reflected on the keys to their enduring relationship.

“Over the years, you come to realize that not everything is a big deal, and most issues won’t break us apart. We’ve learned to just say, ‘Let’s talk it out,’” Marlo explained.

Phil added a lighthearted touch to their communication strategy, saying, “The secret to good communication? Sometimes screaming helps! At least then you know the other person is listening. After that, take a moment and count to ten in another room.”

Their approach emphasizes that a little humor can go a long way in nurturing a strong marriage.

Rob Lowe and Sheryl Berkoff: The Foundation of a Lasting Marriage

Rob Lowe emphasizes the importance of marrying the right person as a cornerstone of a successful relationship. During his appearance on the iHeartPodcast Table for Two with Bruce Bozzi, the West Wing star shared how his deep friendship with his wife, Sheryl Berkoff, has been vital to their 33-year marriage.

“Marriage is challenging everywhere, not just in Hollywood,” Rob explained. “Sheryl is my best friend. If you marry someone for any reason other than that friendship, you’re starting at a disadvantage. That bond helps you weather the ups and downs.”

Rob also highlighted the importance of maintaining passion in their relationship. “You need that spark,” he noted. “I still feel that with Sheryl, but it can fluctuate. There are times when the chemistry is strong, and other times when it may feel less intense. Keeping the heat alive is essential.”

Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz: The Power of Quality Time

For Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz, maintaining their 14-year marriage hinges on prioritizing quality time together. In a March 2023 interview with the Wall Street Journal, Alicia shared the challenges couples face in today’s busy world.

“It’s essential to carve out time for each other,” she said. “With so much to juggle—school, kids, and career ambitions—it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind. But making time for your partner is invaluable.”

Alicia emphasized that dedicating time to each other helps rekindle love and appreciation. “It’s during those moments that you remember why you fell in love and what makes each other interesting,” she added. “That focus truly enriches the relationship.”

Snoop Dogg and Shante Broadus: Secrets to a Lasting Marriage

Snoop Dogg and Shante Broadus have been together for 27 years, a journey that began in the halls of Long Beach Polytechnic High School in the ’80s. Through all of life’s challenges, their bond has remained strong.

In a conversation with PEOPLE, Snoop shared his insight into maintaining a successful marriage. “To keep your relationship thriving, it’s important to intentionally make your partner happy,” he advised. “Discover what they love most and focus on doing that. That’s what true love is all about.”

Tim McGraw and Faith Hill: The Balance of Partnership in Marriage

For Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, equality is essential in their long-lasting relationship. When asked about the dynamics of their marriage, Tim humorously remarked, “Well, the car I drive, but she drives the relationship,” during a 2017 appearance on Today.

He emphasized the importance of making decisions together. “We approach things differently, but we always discuss them before taking action. With three daughters, we often find ourselves leaning on Mom for those decisions,” he shared.

Conflict, according to McGraw, is a natural part of their 27-year marriage. They believe in facing disagreements head-on. “It’s crucial to be able to argue or have intense discussions,” he explained. “But the key is that your first thought shouldn’t be, ‘Should I be in this relationship?’ That should be the last thing on your mind during an argument.”

Denzel and Pauletta Washington: The Key to Their Enduring Love

Pauletta Washington shared with PEOPLE that there are no shortcuts to sustaining her 41-year marriage to Denzel Washington—it’s all about commitment and love.

“We put in the effort. It’s a continuous process,” she explained. “We rely on prayers for strength and focus on forgiveness from both sides. But at the core, it’s the fundamental love we share that keeps us together.” 26 Celeb Couples Reveal

Luke Bryan and Caroline Boyer: Navigating Love with Balance

For Luke Bryan and Caroline Boyer, nearly two decades of marriage have taught them the importance of choosing their battles wisely.

“There’s some ‘opposites attract’ going on,” Bryan shared with PEOPLE in 2021. “It can drive us a bit crazy, but it also brings us closer. We’ve learned to recognize when it’s time to talk things out and when it’s best to forgive and move on. Life’s too short to hold onto grudges!”

Caroline echoed his sentiments, saying, “Like any couple, we have our disagreements and tough days. But we always communicate about our issues. Marriage isn’t always a fairy tale; it requires both partners to put in the effort. Whether we’re feeling joyful or facing challenges, we continually fight for one another.” 26 Celeb Couples Reveal

Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas: The Secret to Their Enduring Love

Catherine Zeta-Jones recently shared with WSJ. Magazine that one of the key elements sustaining her 20-plus-year marriage to Michael Douglas is their shared sense of fun.

With a 25-year age difference, Zeta-Jones acknowledges that no relationship is without its ups and downs. “The foundation of our relationship is love and respect. We’ve never lost our sense of humor and genuinely enjoy each other’s company,” she explained.

She elaborated on their unique lifestyle: “Unlike many couples, we don’t have a traditional 9-to-5 routine. Our schedules are often erratic, with periods of intense work followed by downtime. This has allowed us to spend significant quality time together.”

Having raised their children in Bermuda for 12 years, Zeta-Jones emphasized the importance of respecting each other’s space while maintaining a lasting bond through laughter. 26 Celeb Couples Reveal

Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka: The Key to Their Lasting Love

Neil Patrick Harris recently shared the secret behind his 20-year relationship with David Burtka, and it boils down to one essential quality: perseverance.

In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, the “How I Met Your Mother” star explained, “The secret to a strong relationship is simply sticking it out. It’s not always perfect… but he’s pretty, which makes it a lot easier!”

Harris’s lighthearted take highlights the importance of resilience and humor in maintaining a loving partnership. 26 Celeb Couples Reveal

Pink and Carey Hart: The Secret to Their Strong Marriage

In an interview with Extra in 2021, pop star Pink opened up about her enduring relationship with husband Carey Hart. “For us, the answer is there’s no quit button. Unless we find one. Right now, we don’t have one,” she revealed.

The singer also highlighted the importance of communication, and sharing, “It’s about couples’ counseling and learning how to speak the same language. We don’t always speak the same language.”

Pink and Carey Hart first met in 2001, and despite their relationship’s ups and downs, they have always managed to reconnect. The couple has now been married for 18 years, proving that with effort and commitment, love can last. 26 Celeb Couples Reveal

The Remarkable 77-Year Love Story of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter

Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter shared one of the longest marriages in U.S. history, spanning an incredible 77 years before Rosalynn passed away in 2023. The secret to their enduring bond? Balancing independence with shared passions.

In a 2021 interview with Good Morning America, President Carter reflected on their long-lasting relationship, saying, “We’ve survived this long together because, first of all, we give each other plenty of space to do our own thing.”

However, the former president noted that what made their marriage work was embracing common interests, such as fly fishing, which they enjoyed as a couple. “We share as much as we possibly can,” he said, making their mutual love for outdoor activities, including bird watching and fishing, an integral part of their life. 26 Celeb Couples Reveal

Salma Hayek and François-Henri Pinault: The Key to Their Strong Marriage

In a 2021 episode of Red Table Talk, actress Salma Hayek shared the secret behind her successful marriage with billionaire businessman François-Henri Pinault. Instead of placing blame during disagreements, they focus on finding solutions together.

“When there’s conflict, all our energy goes into solving the problem,” Hayek explained. “We never waste time pointing fingers or saying, ‘You should have done this or that.'”

This positive approach has helped them maintain a healthy relationship, with Hayek adding, “We’ve never said anything nasty to each other. No resentment.” 26 Celeb Couples Reveal

Kathy and Rick Hilton: The Secret to 43 Years of Marriage

Kathy Hilton and her husband Rick Hilton, parents to Paris and Nicky Hilton, have been married for an impressive 43 years. Unlike the saying, “distance makes the heart grow fonder,” the couple has rarely spent time apart, despite their hectic schedules.

“We haven’t been away from each other for more than two weeks in 43 years of marriage,” Kathy, star of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, told PEOPLE.

Kathy also believes in the importance of ending each day on a positive note with her partner. “I don’t think you should go to bed without saying, ‘I love you’ and giving each other a kiss,” she shared. “If there’s been a disagreement, always make it before you sleep. Keep things fun, and exciting, and never lose that little bit of mystery. 26 Celeb Couples Reveal

Jessica Alba and Cash Warren: How They Keep Their Marriage Strong

For actress Jessica Alba and her husband, Cash Warren, maintaining their 16-year marriage is all about prioritizing quality time and staying connected.

In an interview with PEOPLE, Alba shared, “It’s something you have to choose to do. You need to make the time for each other, no matter how busy life gets.”

She emphasized the importance of not just going through the motions of everyday life but making each other a priority. “We make sure to have moments where we just connect—laugh together, put the phones down, and focus on us.”

Alba also reflected on how their relationship keeps her grounded. “Even in our toughest times, I realize I’m better off with you,” she revealed. “You have to ask yourself, ‘Would my life be better if we weren’t together?’ And the answer is always, ‘No.’ We’re friends at the core.” 26 Celeb Couples Reveal