Denzel Washington has had an incredible career in Hollywood, and has received tremendous recognition and countless accolades for his hard work. His wife, Pauletta, has always stood by him as a pillar of strength, yet she has not once compromised her own career.
Pauletta has a very impressive portfolio of acting jobs and has maintained her own path to success. The Washingtons have worked very hard to be respected, not just in the entertainment industry, but also at home. They keep the lines of communication open and have truly created a family of high values that is built on a platform of true love.
10 They Met On The Set Of A TV Series
This power couple met on the set of the television series Wilma, in 1977. Shortly after connecting on the show, a wrap up party was thrown, during which time they connected and began the early steps of their relationship. Their romance quickly became serious, and as the two discovered, they were able to work on life's ups and downs together, they decided to spend their lives with one another.
9 They Have 4 Beautiful Children
Denzel and Pauletta were beyond themselves with excitement when they revealed to the world that they were pregnant with their first child. Their first born son is John, then they went on to welcome a daughter named Katia. As they pursued having one more child, it turned out that they were blessed with not one, but two! They soon added twins Malcolm and Olivia to their perfect family.
8 Denzel Says There's A Secret To Marriage
Couples that have been married for a long time are a true testament to what it takes to make a marriage work. Every couple transitions through their own life lessons and usually has some advice to share with others. In Denzel's case, his lesson is light-hearted and humorous, with a touch of realism that leaves all married couples silently nodding in agreement.
The secret to keeping his marriage strong lies in the fact that he "does what he's told," he joked, and he went on to say to People; "I keep my mouth shut."
7 Paulette's Hard Work At Home Is Appreciated
Perhaps one of the most endearing qualities of their relationship is the fact that Denzel seems to be tenderly appreciative of Paulette's efforts and contributions to their family. During an interview with Closer Weekly, Denzel was asked what his favorite thing was about his wife, and his response was; “There are too many things!”
He then went on to say that she did the "heavy lifting" when it came to creating a loving home for their family and raising their children.
6 Pauletta Is A Successful Actress
Pauletta has been credited for her homemaking skills, but it's important to note that this didn't come at the expense of her career. Truly modeling superstar qualities, she was able to also continue to develop her career while being the best mom and wife to her family.
She has really made a name for herself in theater, film, and television, and IMDb reports she is best known for her work in Philadelphia, Antwone Fisher, Steps, She's Gotta Have It and The Parkers.
5 They Support One Another In Every Way
Truly devoted to creating the best lives for one another, this couple sets marriage goals with every turn. Denzel and Pauletta support and encourage one another in every way.
During an interview with The Root, Pauletta told the interviewer that she was not at all intimidated by Denzel's success. She said: “Any woman behind an influential man has always been there. Maybe the public, and the media, is now saying we recognize you, but take it from me, I’ve been on the scene a long time,” she shared.
4 Pauletta Turned Down Denzel's Proposals.... Twice!
It's true what they say... the third time is always the charm!
As it turns out, Denzel proposed to Pauletta not once, not twice, but three times, before she agreed to take the plunge!
While it hasn't been revealed why the first two attempts were unsuccessful, the third time definitely was, and for that, these two lovebirds are truly grateful.
3 Paulette Is A Trained Musician
Paulette has many hidden talents that the world needs to know about and credit her for. She happens to be a graduate of Julliard, and is an exceptionally talented vocalist.
As if that were not enough, she also happens to be a classically trained pianist as well. Her artistic talents consist of genuine, consistent, artistic creativity, which is appreciated by not just her fans but her family, too.
2 Their Marriage Survived Controversy
Every marriage goes through its fair share of challenges, and 2013 was not the easiest year for Denzel and Paulette. They suffered through rumors of infidelity and the media was relentless in attacking them for more information.
Denzel denied all the rumors, but he did reveal that his marriage went through a difficult time that required work, as every marriage does. Pauletta also contributed a cryptic social media message to the same effect, but ultimately, whatever their issue was, they seemed to have the maturity to handle it and came out stronger, as a result.
1 They Still Know How To Laugh
The Washingtons are a very close knit family, and their tight bond is absolutely undeniable. They truly love one another deeply and are committed to the betterment of their family, as a whole.
Perhaps one of the most admirable qualities of Denzel and Paulette's marriage is the fact that they have managed to always remember how to laugh. They quip and poke at one another during interviews, and keep a light-hearted, open-minded perspective.
Couples everywhere admire their devotion.