These 13 Celebrity Couples Waited Years — or Decades! — to Get Married

In a world where celebrity relationships often seem fleeting, a number of high-profile couples have taken the scenic route to marriage, often waiting years, or even decades, before finally saying “I do.” This trend highlights a growing recognition of the importance of solidifying a partnership through time spent together rather than rushing into matrimony.

One notable example is actress Michelle Yeoh, who recently married her long-term partner, Jean Todt, after a remarkable engagement of nearly 19 years. The couple first met in 2004 at a Ferrari event in Shanghai, where Yeoh was a brand spokesperson and Todt served as CEO. Their relationship blossomed quickly, and Todt proposed just a month later. However, it would take almost two decades before they tied the knot in a low-key ceremony in Geneva on July 27, 2023. Celebrating their union, guest Felipe Massa shared a joyful message on social media, noting the significance of the occasion after 9,662 days of engagement.

Similarly, reality television stars JoJo Fletcher and Jordan Rodgers, who found love in the spotlight, also had their share of delays. After initially becoming engaged during her season of “The Bachelorette” in 2016, the couple extended their engagement over six years due to several postponements, including interruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. They finally exchanged vows on May 14, 2022. Fletcher has expressed that every moment leading up to that day was worthwhile, as their journey only strengthened their relationship.

In a tale of on-screen romance blossoming into real-life love, actors Tim Daly and Téa Leoni made headlines when they wed in July 2025. After meeting on the set of “Madam Secretary” in 2014, their relationship progressed slowly, culminating in marriage over a decade later. Their private New York City wedding was attended only by close family, reflecting the couple’s preference for intimacy over public spectacle.

Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart represent yet another enduring couple in the entertainment industry. The two have been together for over two decades, but they did not marry until 2010. Their unlikely romance began in 2002 at the Golden Globes, and after a unique progression that included an unconventional first date, they became engaged in 2009. Reflecting on their partnership, Ford has often credited Flockhart for providing him with purpose and support throughout his life and career.

Tina Turner’s story is one of persistence and love found later in life. The musical icon initially met Erwin Bach at an airport in Germany, which sparked a relationship lasting 27 years before they married in 2013. Their bond proved remarkably strong, with Bach even donating a kidney to Turner in a testament to his devotion. Tragically, Turner passed away in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience.

Josh Hartnett and Tamsin Egerton also exemplify a long-term partnership that culminated in marriage. The couple first met on set in 2011 and spent over a decade together before tying the knot in a discreet ceremony in November 2021. Hartnett has shared his belief in the importance of commitment and nurturing each other within a relationship, a philosophy he credits for their success.

The route to matrimony can be filled with twists and turns, as highlighted by the comedic duo of Joy Behar and Steve Janowitz. The two met in an unconventional setting and took nearly 30 years to marry. Their wedding in 2011 was influenced by the changing landscape of marriage laws in New York, demonstrating how societal shifts can intersect with personal milestones.

In a more recent instance, India Hicks and David Flint Wood finally sealed their long-standing relationship by marrying in September 2021, after 26 years together. With multiple postponements due to the pandemic, their wedding was described as “magical,” a celebration of their enduring commitment to one another.

The increasing acceptance of delayed marriages among celebrities showcases a shift in attitudes towards commitment and partnership. Many couples are prioritising a solid foundation built over time rather than succumbing to the pressures to conform to traditional timelines. As these stories illustrate, sometimes, waiting for the right moment can truly enhance the value of saying “I do.”