Paul Newman, the American actor whose famous blue eyes stole the hearts of ladies everywhere, had a career that spanned decades. At the time of his passing in 2008 at age 83, he was in over 60 films.

In addition to his accomplishments in the entertainment industry, he was also a philanthropist. His food company, Newman’s Own, continues to donate all of its profits to charitable causes. But there is one more thing the actor was known for: his long marriage to fellow actor Joanne Woodward.

The two first met in 1953 while working on a play together, and Paul was still married to his first wife, Jackie. It wasn’t until 1957 when they reconnected during a film project that the two started a romance. Joanne and Paul got married in 1958 after his divorce.

Funnily enough, Woodward didn’t find him attractive when they first met, but said she thought he was just another “pretty face”. He, however, thought she was gorgeous, and by the time they made things official, they couldn’t get enough of each other— and that continued for decades.

Nicknamed “Hollywood’s Golden Couple”, they stayed married for fifty years up until Paul’s death from lung cancer. During that time, the couple raised three daughters and, with the exception of their work in the entertainment field, stayed out of the spotlight. Together, they worked on 15 movie and TV projects.

Knowing how uncommon it is to see long-term relationships in show business, people have always held the couple in high regard for maintaining a healthy marriage for so long. Though the two were private about their relationship, over the years they spoke to reporters about the secret to its longevity. Paul once famously said:

“I don’t like to discuss my marriage, but I will tell you something which may sound corny but which happens to be true. I have steak at home. Why should I go out for hamburger?”

And they both admitted to having an enormous amount of physical chemistry that lasted well into their mature years. But Joanne was also quick to point out that they had a strong friendship built on trust, and looks weren’t everything:

“Sexiness wears thin after a while and beauty fades, but to be married to a man who makes you laugh every day? Ah, now that’s a real treat.”

People who met them often remarked how much they could see they were in love, and still gazed and touched one another like a couple of newlyweds. Paul and Joanne lived an active life, taking care of family, immersed in charitable campaigns, and dabbled in politics.

Their farmhouse in Westport, Connecticut was their home from early in their marriage, a beautiful country estate away from the prying eyes and ears of Hollywood. It was always home, even for a few years after Paul’s death. Watch this video to hear more about their love-filled union. A love story that lasted this long was no accident, and like Paul said, happened because they wanted it to.

Were you already a fan of Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward’s love? What are your thoughts on their marriage secrets?

Sources:
Country Living
The Coffeelicious