The American Gangster actor sat with People to reveal how he and his wife, Pauletta, have kept their marriage alive for 35 years and counting. It goes without saying that his first tip on maintaining longevity in a relationship should be etched into every man’s eyelids across the globe:

“I do what I’m told. I keep my mouth shut.” . Respect to the king and his queen.  With those gems, this couple has one of if the longest lasting marriage in Hollywood today, 35 years and counting. Some of you can’t keep a relationship a full thirty five hours let alone years lol. 

“I don’t know if it’s show business that has a monopoly on divorce, it’s just that you hear about it. I just think that you have to work at it. Not give up on each other. It’s a commitment. 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!” 

Pauletta said being married to a man who was a worldwide sex symbol was a challenge initially, but love always prevails. This woman set the foundations for The Washington Family. Denzel adds “She has done the heavy lifting. She has been the consistent one. She has given the daily religious instruction. She was the one taking them to school, while I was out providing.”

The People magazine asked Denzel what he appreciated most about his wife, he said:

“There’s too many things! What pops into my head: security, food, a beautiful home.” That he was taught from the Five Heartbeats that a heart is a house full of love. That’s beautiful.