Pat Boone, 91, Refused to Kiss Shirley Jones, 92, in “April Love” for Fear of Upsetting His Wife. Decades Later, They Finally Had Their Moment

Renowned singer and actor Pat Boone has taken a moment to celebrate the 92nd birthday of his former co-star, Shirley Jones, with whom he starred in the beloved 1957 romantic musical *April Love*. Boone, now 91, shared a heartfelt video message along with warm wishes for Jones, recalling the strong friendship they cultivated over the years following their film collaboration.

In his heartfelt tribute, Boone reflected on his time working with Jones, stating, “Many of you remember that Shirley and I made the film *April Love* together, and from that time on, we became very dear friends.” His message further highlighted their shared experiences, including a memorable moment that included an iconic photograph of both stars posing with others who have their names immortalised on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He expressed gratitude for their enduring friendship, stating, “Shirley, I’m so grateful for our friendship all these years. Happy birthday to you, and many more!”

Interestingly, despite the romantic nature of their film, Boone and Jones never shared a kiss while filming. This was largely due to Boone’s apprehension about how his wife, Shirley Boone, would react to him kissing another actress. Boone, who lost his wife in 2019, explained that he wanted to ensure that he had her blessing before engaging in such intimate scenes.

Recalling the production of *April Love*, Boone said, “This was my second movie, and what was to be my first movie kiss was 50 years in coming.” He admitted that he had not previously discussed his wife’s feelings regarding kissing scenes with actresses. Consequently, he laid bare his hesitation, expressing that he was concerned about the director’s suggestion to film the kiss as it was not part of the script.

Despite his initial hesitation, Boone was determined to consult his wife before proceeding with any on-screen romance. He said, “When I asked for time to discuss it with my wife and get her permission, with the promise that I wouldn’t enjoy it, the time to do it in the film had passed.” Thus, the intimate moment they were supposed to share never materialised.

Decades later, during a film screening commemorating the musical’s anniversary at the Egyptian Theatre, Boone and Jones finally had the opportunity to kiss. In a touching agreement with their spouses, both Boone and Jones were allowed to share the kiss they had long missed. “After 50 years, Shirley and I, and Shirley Jones and her husband, Marty, agreed that we owed each other that one kiss. They both granted permission,” Boone recalled.

The moment came during a question-and-answer session following the restored film screening, where the audience’s request to see the long-awaited kiss prompted a light-hearted reaction from Boone. He recounted, “When the movie ended, the request came in the Q&A, and with both mates looking on, I directed that teenage kiss with Shirley Jones.”

To Boone’s surprise, he confessed that he enjoyed the kiss, breaking the promise he had made to his late wife. “I kissed dear Shirley Jones and I did enjoy it, I must confess,” he said candidly, eliciting both laughter and applause from those present during the momentous occasion.

Boone’s affectionate tribute and the story of their long-awaited kiss not only underscore the deep bond formed during the making of *April Love* but also highlight the genuine, lasting friendships that can emerge from shared experiences in the entertainment industry. As Boone continues to reflect fondly on memories with Jones, both of their legacies as icons of film endure.

Jones’s birthday celebration served as a reminder of the timeless appeal of classic cinema and the enduring friendships that can blossom from it. Boone’s fond recollections reveal not only the charm of their past work together but also the respect and affection that have developed throughout their extensive careers in the industry.