Although the couple has been happily married for almost 4 decades, Denzel had to propose 3 times for Pauletta to finally say, “Yes!”

Years later, in an interview with Access Hollywood, even Denzel Washington was confused as to why the first 2 attempts had failed. “Because I said no,” was his now wife’s straightforward answer.

When Pauletta was eventually ready to tie the knot, the 2 Hollywood stars got married in 1983. Their wedding reception held a few surprises as well,

as the newlyweds were so busy entertaining their guests that they ran out of food by the time they sat down to eat. To appease their hunger, they went to get an early breakfast at a local diner.

3. They made sure to still appreciate each other’s company while building a family.

Throughout the years, both Pauletta and Denzel stressed that there is no one secret to a successful marriage, but being committed to each other and working on issues that might arise is key. “It’s not all the honeymoon, it doesn’t last forever, so you work at it. And hopefully, you’re good friends first, that might help!” said Denzel Washington in a 2013 interview.

After being married for 12 years and building a family together, the pair renewed their vows in 1995 during a romantic ceremony in South Africa.

4. Denzel became the father he never had.

 

Denzel revealed that his parents got divorced when he was 14 years old. He was left with his single mother and was a rebellious teenager. Although they weren’t well off, Denzel’s mother decided to send him to a private school around this time, as she didn’t like the people her son was hanging out with. Despite this strict upbringing, the actor later came to appreciate the sacrifices his mom made for him while his father was absent after the divorce.

Despite his own difficult childhood, Denzel and his wife, Pauletta, made sure to raise their children in a happy, stable home. “My children are good people. They are not perfect but they are generous and humble and kind. My wife did that.”

5. Their children are following in their footsteps.

Pauletta and Denzel Washington welcomed their first child a year after getting married. John David Washington, who has since become a Hollywood A-lister, was followed by Katia, and in 1991, by twins, Olivia and Malcolm. All of the Washington children have budding careers in the movie industry just like their parents.

6. “My wife has made our house a home…she did the heavy lifting.”

While Denzel’s acting career took off and put him more in the public eye than Pauletta, she says this didn’t negatively affect their connection, as they only grew closer. “As you climb, you grow deeper in the foundation, so it makes our foundation deeper.”

And Denzel has always made sure throughout the years to give Pauletta credit where it was due. “My wife has made our house a home, and raised these beautiful kids, and protected them and sacrificed for them. She did the heavy lifting.”

How long have you been together with your partner? Do you have any other tips for how to make a relationship last?