Rita Wilson, the celebrated actress and singer, has recently shared insights into the enduring union she shares with actor Tom Hanks. In a cover story for PEOPLE magazine, Wilson discusses the surprising ‘secret’ behind their 38-year marriage, coinciding with the release of her new album, *Sound of a Woman*.
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Reflecting on their long-lasting bond, Wilson highlights a rather unexpected source of comfort and understanding in their relationship: their shared bathroom. She explains, “That’s where you download everything.” The actress believes that such moments allow them to connect and share details from their daily lives, fostering a sense of partnership. She elaborates, “In the mornings, you’re thinking about, ‘What are you doing today? Where are you going to be? Great, I want you there.’”
Though Wilson finds humour in this notion, she asserts that it holds significant truth. The couple’s success can also be attributed to their aligned values, with Wilson emphasising the importance of open communication. She states, “You have to be able to communicate to each other the things that are changing in your life — and also the things that are still staying the same so that you’re always working together for the greater good.”
Their relationship rule, “Never go to bed mad,” is another cornerstone of their marriage. Wilson admits that she learnt this early in their relationship and has found it to be sound advice. “You don’t want to wake up in the morning and have that lingering feeling,” she notes. The couple makes it a priority to resolve issues before retiring for the night, a practice which Wilson believes contributes to their enduring happiness.
In her new album, *Sound of a Woman*, Wilson explores themes of love and commitment, offering a candid glimpse into her marriage through the whimsical country song titled “Marriage.” With lyrics like, “One minute you’re in love with him, the next you wish he’d die,” she captures the complexities of long-term relationships. Through this track, she reflects on the ebbs and flows of staying committed over the years.
Wilson poignantly observes, “You’re not the same person you were when you got married.” She acknowledges that personal growth is inevitable over the years, both physically and emotionally. “Who you are physically, who you are emotionally, spiritually is very different than who you are 10 years later, 20 years later, 30 years later,” she explains.
This adaptability is crucial for a healthy marriage, according to Wilson. “You need to have the ability to grow, change and evolve together and support each other over time.” Despite the transformations they have both undergone, she expresses gratitude for the depth of their shared journey. “I still look at my husband, and I still see him the way we were when we were 20,” she says, underscoring the enduring nature of their affection.
The couple’s history dates back to their initial meeting on the set of the ABC sitcom *Bosom Buddies* in 1981. After a rekindled connection years later, they made their relationship public in 1986 and eventually wed in 1988. Their partnership has thrived amidst the challenges of Hollywood, with Wilson jokingly referring to their 38 years together as “110 dog years.”
For fans eager to learn more about Rita Wilson, her journey, and her views on love and marriage, the latest issue of PEOPLE magazine will be available on newsstands, featuring her insights alongside the promotion of her new album, *Sound of a Woman*, which was launched on May 1st.
As the couple continues to share their lives together, Wilson’s reflections serve as a testament to the hard work and commitment required to maintain a loving, healthy marriage, even after decades together.