8 Surprising Facts About Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward’s Legendary Love Story

When you think about iconic Hollywood couples, Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward are at the top of the list. They tied the knot in 1958 and stayed together until Newman’s passing in 2008, a remarkable feat in an industry where relationships often don’t last. Their love story even inspired a docuseries directed by Ethan Hawke called HBO’s The Last Movie Stars in 2022.

So, what’s the secret behind their enduring love story? Did it live up to the fairy tale romance we all imagine it to be? Let’s dive into some interesting facts about this legendary pair.

First off, Newman and Woodward crossed paths on Broadway in 1953, while Newman was still married to someone else. Despite those initial complications, they eventually found their way to each other after Newman divorced his first wife. They tied the knot in 1958, after Newman and Woodward both handled their previous relationships.

The couple went on to have six children together. Woodward became a stepmother to Newman’s three kids from his first marriage, and they welcomed three daughters of their own. One of their daughters, Clea, now serves as an ambassador for Newman’s charity.

Newman and Woodward each had successful acting careers, but they also made time to collaborate on various film projects. In 1969, they both received Oscar nominations in the same year, a rare feat for any couple. Their final collaboration, the film Mr. & Mrs. Bridge, earned Woodward an Oscar nod for her role.

Family played a significant role in their lives, with Woodward and her daughter Clea graduating from the same college on the same day in 1990, while Newman delivered the commencement speech. Despite the highs, they also went through tough times, like the loss of Newman’s son Scott in 1978.

The couple was also deeply involved in charitable work and founded Newman’s Own, a company known for its salad dressing that donates most of its profits to charity. Their daughter Clea highlighted the importance of giving back, a value instilled in them by their parents.

While some may credit Newman’s looks for keeping Woodward by his side, she revealed that making each other laugh was the key to their relationship. Laughter, she said, was more important than anything else.

For those wondering about the more intimate aspects of their relationship, Newman’s posthumous memoir shed some light on their passionate connection. He shared steamy details of their early days together, highlighting their deep emotional bond.

While Hollywood relationships are often seen as fleeting, Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward proved that true love and laughter can go a long way in keeping a relationship strong. Their story is a reminder that even in the glamorous world of entertainment, genuine love and commitment can withstand the test of time.