Sunny Hostin, co-host of ‘The View’, recently opened up about the key factors that have sustained her nearly three-decade-long marriage to Emmanuel “Manny” Hostin. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Hostin highlighted that the essence of their relationship lies in “friendship and compromise.” With their 28th wedding anniversary celebrated this summer, the couple’s bond appears to have matured alongside their journey together.
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At the heart of Hostin’s perspective on marriage is the realisation that being right is not always necessary. She shared how her marriage has evolved over the years, revealing that debates with her husband have significantly diminished. “One thing that my husband mentioned is how I just don’t argue anymore,” Hostin said. This shift in their dynamic reflects a greater understanding of what truly matters in their partnership.
The co-host recounted everyday scenarios where disagreements are brushed aside in favour of togetherness. She gave an example of a minor dispute over a phone call, stating that whether it was Jimmy or John who made the call doesn’t hold substantial weight anymore. “I don’t need to win any argument or anything,” she noted, indicating that her priority lies with her partner rather than trivial disagreements.
Friendship, according to Hostin, has always been an integral part of their relationship. “I just need my friend by my side,” she emphasised, citing this deep connection as the bedrock of their marriage. The couple’s mutual affection and camaraderie have endured since the beginning of their union, which Hostin celebrated with a throwback photo of their wedding day—where she famously wore a Vera Wang gown.
Hostin reminisced about her wedding day, highlighting the importance of capturing genuine moments over the typical posed photographs. Opting for a photojournalist instead of a conventional photographer allowed her to enjoy the day without being frequently interrupted for posed shots. This decision resulted in what she describes as her favourite wedding photo: a candid moment of laughter shared between the newlyweds, perfectly encapsulating their joyful spirit.
As she reflected on their early days, Hostin noted that laughter has remained a constant in their relationship, with friends often noting the couple’s strong bond. “We’re the couple that people separate at dinner parties because we giggle so much,” Hostin shared with a warm smile. Their laughter has not only endured but has become a hallmark of their connection, emphasising the joy they find in each other’s company.
In her anniversary post, she described Manny as her “greatest love,” “best friend,” and “safest place.” She highlighted the enduring nature of their relationship by playfully mentioning how friends still try to keep them apart at social gatherings, only for the couple to eventually find their way back to one another, laughing all the while.
Beyond her personal life, Hostin is also marking a significant professional milestone as ‘The View’ is celebrating its 30th season, while she enters her 11th year at the Hot Topics table. She expressed disbelief at how swiftly time has passed, declaring, “It feels really improbable, and impossible, and beautiful.” Hostin recalled her early experiences on the show, particularly her audition with the late Barbara Walters, underscoring the profound memories created throughout her tenure.
Reflecting on her time on ‘The View’, Hostin has recognised the impact that her words can have on viewers. She expressed appreciation for the feedback she receives and the connections she feels with the audience. “People generally will tell me, ‘Thank you for saying that. That’s what I was thinking,’” she noted, realising the platform’s power to resonate with diverse audiences.
For Hostin, the privilege of sharing her voice and connecting with viewers is what makes her role special. She stated, “People feel seen, and they feel heard,” affirming the significance of creating a space where true feelings can be articulated.
As ‘The View’ continues to captivate audiences with its engaging discussions, Hostin’s narrative of love, laughter, and connection serves as a heartwarming reminder of the enduring power of friendship in both marriage and career. The show airs on weekdays at 11 a.m. ET on ABC.