Christine Taylor Reflects on ‘Very Difficult’ Separation from Ben Stiller and How They Found Their ‘Way Back’ to One Another

Christine Taylor has opened up about the journey she and her husband, Ben Stiller, have taken since their separation in 2017, revealing how their relationship has emerged strengthened from the experience. In a recent episode of The McBride Rewind podcast, the actress reflected on their past struggles and the unconventional circumstances that helped them reconnect.

The couple, who had been married for 17 years, publicly announced their separation in May 2017. Stiller, now 60, confirmed that the pair had rekindled their romance during an interview in February 2022. “We got back together, we found our way back during COVID,” Taylor disclosed during the podcast recording on May 26. She recalled first meeting Stiller when she was just 28 and described how life’s various phases can challenge a relationship.

“Kids grow and have their own stages, and I think that applies to adults as well, especially women,” Taylor explained. She elaborated on how their personal growth diverged at times, stating, “We were just not on the same page with a lot of things.” This recognition led them to take a step back, allowing them to reassess their situation.

Reflecting on the challenges of their separation, Taylor admitted that the decision was not taken lightly. “It was very difficult to come to that decision,” she shared. Despite the emotional toll, the couple remained in contact and co-parented their two children, Ella, now 24, and Quinlin, 20. Throughout this period, the couple was supported by their commitment to family, which ultimately facilitated their reunion.

Taylor noted that the COVID-19 pandemic inadvertently played a pivotal role in their reconciliation. “If there’s a silver lining for us during COVID, that was the little gift,” she remarked. The family spent significant time together during lockdown, allowing Taylor and Stiller to reflect on their relationship.

As they navigated this unique moment, Taylor and Stiller utilised therapy sessions to work on their marriage. “We had nothing but time, so Ben and I spent a lot of time working on us with a therapist,” she explained. This proactive approach not only helped them heal but also helped re-establish their bond.

Describing their current relationship, Taylor expressed gratitude for their renewed connection, indicating they now take time to nurture their intimacy. She highlighted a recent instance where Stiller made a five-hour trip to visit her on a film set, a gesture she described as an affirmation of their commitment to one another. “I feel really lucky that we found our way back for us,” Taylor said.

Stiller himself has also expressed sentiments about their relationship dynamics. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal in October 2025, he highlighted shared humour as a cornerstone of their connection. “When you’re with somebody for many years, a sense of humour is just the most important thing,” he stated, emphasising the joy they find in each other’s company.

Their relationship began in 1999 while filming Heat Vision and Jack, a sitcom that never broadcast. Following a whirlwind romance, they tied the knot less than a year later. Since then, the couple has collaborated on multiple films, including popular titles like Dodgeball and Zoolander.

As Taylor illustrated in her recent podcast appearance, the journey from separation to reconnection can be fraught with challenges but also rich with opportunities for growth and understanding. Their story resonates with many couples navigating similar paths, underscoring that with effort and commitment, it is possible to emerge from adversity even stronger.