Audra McDonald Reveals the Keys to Her 13-Year Marriage to Husband Will Swenson and What ‘Rule’ They Follow (Exclusive)

**Audra McDonald and Will Swenson: Secrets to a Strong Marriage Amidst Stardom**

Tony Award-winning actress Audra McDonald, a stalwart of Broadway, recently opened up about the keys to her successful marriage with fellow performer Will Swenson. The talented duo first crossed paths in 2007 during the Broadway revival of “110 in the Shade.” They eventually tied the knot in 2012 and have since built a life together that emphasises love, communication, and time spent together despite their demanding careers.

During an appearance at the New York Women in Film and Television Muse Awards at Cipriani 42nd Street, McDonald highlighted the importance of staying connected. Addressing the challenges actors face with busy schedules, she noted, “We really try to go no more than three weeks apart with work. If you do, things can kind of crumble. So we make that rule.” This approach appears to serve them well, as they celebrate nearly 15 years of marriage and shared experiences.

The couple’s commitment to open dialogue also plays a pivotal role in maintaining their relationship. “Communication, communication, communication,” McDonald emphasised. “You have to be friends. You have to be friends first. If you don’t have the friendship base, then I don’t think that marriages can survive.” This sentiment reinforces the notion that strong partnerships are built on mutual support and understanding.

McDonald (55) and Swenson (53) began their journey together as colleagues, though it was clear from the outset that their connection was more profound than mere friendship. They made their red carpet debut as a couple in 2009 at the American Theatre Wing’s Spring Gala. Throughout their time together, they have welcomed a daughter, Sally James McDonald-Swenson, born in 2016. McDonald is also a mother to Zoe Madeline Donovan, born in 2001 during her previous marriage to Peter Donovan, while Swenson has two sons, Sawyer and Bridger, from his former marriage with Amy Westerby.

In a heartfelt Instagram tribute celebrating their 12th anniversary, McDonald expressed her enduring affection for Swenson, stating, “Here’s to twelve more and then twelve more after that.” This light-hearted yet sincere message captures the spirit of their relationship as they continue to celebrate milestones together. Recently, she marked their 13th anniversary with a casual note, reflecting on their time as a married couple.

Swenson, a graduate of Brigham Young University, has carved out a successful career on Broadway since making his debut in the musical “Brooklyn” in 2004. His impressive credits include performances in popular productions such as “Hair,” “Waitress,” “Les Misérables,” and “A Beautiful Noise.” Despite his roots in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he disclosed in a 2021 podcast interview that he no longer identifies as a practising Mormon.

Conversely, Audra McDonald remains a prominent figure in the theatre world, holding the record for the most Tony Awards, with six to her name. Her remarkable performances in “Carousel,” “Ragtime,” “Porgy and Bess,” and many other productions have solidified her status as a theatre legend. Additionally, she has earned two Grammy Awards and an Emmy, and was inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 2017.

In a joint interview with Entertainment Weekly in 2022, McDonald and Swenson candidly discussed the unique pressures of performing. McDonald shared her emotional vulnerability, stating, “The scariest audience for me is always the audience where you’re sitting, because I feel loved and supported, but I still want you to like me.” Swenson responded by acknowledging the same feeling, expressing that while he is comfortable performing before large crowds, he experiences nerves when it comes to gaining McDonald’s approval.

Currently, McDonald stars as Dorothy Scott in HBO’s period drama “The Gilded Age,” which showcases her remarkable talent alongside a stellar cast that includes Carrie Coon, Morgan Spector, and Cynthia Nixon. As Season 4 begins filming, viewers are eager to witness the story’s evolving narratives and character developments.

With partnership values centred on time spent together, open communication, and foundational friendship, Audra McDonald and Will Swenson exemplify a supportive relationship that thrives in the face of the unique challenges posed by their illustrious careers in the performing arts. As they continue to navigate their lives together, their enduring bond offers a refreshing perspective on love in the spotlight.