**Robert Wagner Reflects on 36-Year Marriage to Jill St. John: A Lasting Love Story**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Jill-St.-John-and-Robert-Wagner-attend-NINETY-YEARS-OF-GALLAGHERS-101926-3988515721c04478bf2a06e01f82224c.jpg)
Robert Wagner, the beloved star known for his iconic role in *Hart to Hart*, has opened up about the key to maintaining a successful marriage with his wife, Jill St. John, as they celebrate an impressive 36 years together. The couple, who exchanged vows in April 1990 at Wagner’s home in Pacific Palisades, California, have a love story that has captivated fans and observers alike.
Wagner, now 96, recently shared insights into their enduring relationship during an interview with *Entertainment Weekly*. At the heart of his advice was a simple yet profound principle: “being interested in life and in your relationship.” He expressed his admiration for St. John, aged 86, stating, “I find Jill very interesting, a very interesting person,” and highlighted the significance of maintaining curiosity in the context of partnership.
Their paths first crossed in the 1950s when both were under contract at 20th Century Fox. However, it wasn’t until November 1981—following the tragic death of Wagner’s late wife, the famed actress Natalie Wood—that St. John reached out with a sympathy card and flowers, leading to their eventual reconnection. Months later, after a dinner party, the spark between them reignited, paving the way for their romance.
A close friend of St. John, Jayne Smith, reminisced about the early days of their relationship. “That was it,” she recalled in a 1982 interview with *PEOPLE*, explaining how Wagner began calling St. John frequently, leading to a deepening bond that blossomed quickly.
Their wedding in 1990 marked the fourth marriage for both, with each bringing previous relationships and children into their union. Over the years, Wagner has been outspoken on social media about his love for St. John. In a heartfelt message celebrating their 35th marriage anniversary last year, he posted a collection of their cherished moments together, writing, “35 years of love, laughter, and partnership with my beautiful Jill. Every day by your side has been a blessing.”
Wagner’s affection for St. John extends beyond anniversaries; he frequently commemorates her birthdays with touching tributes. On her recent birthday in August, he shared a nostalgic photo of the couple by a lake, captioning it, “Wishing the happiest of birthdays to my beautiful wife Jill. I’m so blessed to love you and to do life with you.”
In addition to the personal glimpses of his life with St. John, Wagner balances his public persona with family life. As a father of three, he often shares moments with his children and grandchildren on his social media platforms. His daughter Katie, 62, is from his second marriage to actress Marion Marshall, while his daughter Courtney, 52, was born during his marriage to Wood. Following Wood’s untimely passing, Wagner adopted Natasha Gregson, the daughter of Wood and film producer Richard Gregson.
Recently, Wagner celebrated his daughter Natasha’s birthday with a rare social media post. Sharing a joyful photograph of the two, he expressed his pride and love, writing, “Jill and I are so proud of the woman you are and the joy, laughter, and love you bring into our lives.”
Wagner and St. John’s enduring partnership is a testament to their commitment and affection. After more than three decades, they continue to inspire those around them, offering wisdom on love and companionship. Their journey showcases not only the importance of interest and admiration in a relationship but also the beauty of shared experiences across a lifetime.
As they navigate their golden years together, both Wagner and St. John serve as reminders that love, nurtured through sincerity and curiosity, can thrive in the face of challenges, enriching not just their lives, but also those of their family and fans alike.