Matthew Lillard, the renowned actor known for roles in “Scream” and “Scooby-Doo,” recently found himself in the spotlight not just for his cinematic endeavours, but also for his candid remarks about actor Jacob Elordi. During an interview at the Elton John AIDS Foundation’s 34th Annual Academy Awards Viewing Party, Lillard’s light-hearted comments about Elordi caught the attention of not only fans but also that of his wife, Heather Helm.
Lillard, 56, and Helm have been married since August 2000 and have built a life together, raising three children: daughters Addison, 23, Macey, 21, and son Liam, 17. As he chatted with podcast host Danny Pellegrino, Lillard endorsed Elordi as a contender for the title of PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive 2026. The actor described the younger star as “delicious,” a compliment that elicited a quick reaction from his wife.
“My wife’s like, ‘You can’t say that. You’re married to me for 26 years,’” Lillard chuckled, acknowledging the playful banter between them. Despite the jest, he did not refrain from expressing his admiration for Elordi’s looks, stating simply, “But Jacob Elordi’s legit a really handsome man.”
The couple’s solid relationship has been built on open communication and mutual respect, attributes that Lillard attributes to their lasting partnership. In a previous conversation with PEOPLE, the actor shared some insights into the dynamics of their marriage. One key element he emphasised is the importance of resolving disagreements effectively, stating that he genuinely believes in never going to bed angry.
Reflecting on their two-and-a-half-decade union, Lillard quipped about the longevity of their marriage in the Hollywood scene. “I mean, we’ve been married 25 years, which is over a hundred years in Hollywood,” he joked, highlighting the challenges many couples face in the entertainment industry.
Lillard elaborated that he and Helm don’t adhere to traditional “rules” for their marriage; instead, they focus on fostering an environment where disagreements can be resolved amicably. “When you are fighting, or when you have those moments where you’re bickering, you find the end of it in clear space — which is an apology a lot of times, taking responsibility for how you behaved,” he explained.
This approach not only strengthens their bond but also models accountability to their children. Lillard believes that this method allows his family to delve deeper into the issues at hand. “It’s never about cleaning the kitchen, it’s about something else,” he said, emphasising the significance of uncovering the underlying problems instead of merely addressing the superficial conflicts.
In a world where relationships can often be strained, Lillard and Helm seem to demonstrate a unique framework for maintaining a healthy partnership—a blend of humour, honesty, and a commitment to understanding each other.
As the evening unfolded at the Oscars viewing party, it was clear that Lillard’s remarks were not simply about Elordi but were representative of his wider views on admiration and loyalty within relationships. Balancing familial responsibilities and the complexities of public life, Lillard continues to embody a sense of stability that is often sought after in Hollywood.
As the couple celebrates nearly 26 years of marriage, their approach to love and family serves as a refreshing reminder of what can be accomplished with patience and understanding. In an age where relationships often grab headlines for their quick endings, the Lillards stand out as a testament to enduring love.