Behind the Curtain: 8 Surprising Secrets of Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward’s Legendary Love Affair

When you think of iconic Hollywood couples, Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward undoubtedly top the list.

Their love story, which began in the early 1950s and lasted until Newman’s death in 2008, is a testament to enduring romance, especially in an industry known for fleeting relationships.

Married in 1958, their bond was so strong that it inspired the 2022 docuseries The Last Movie Stars, directed by Ethan Hawke.

But what kept them together for so long?

And was their love story as perfect as it seems?

Here are eight fascinating facts about Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward that reveal the depth of their relationship.

1. They Met on Broadway… While Newman Was Still Married

Newman and Woodward first crossed paths in 1953 during the Broadway production of Picnic.

At the time, Newman was still married to his first wife, Jackie Witte, and Woodward was reportedly engaged to author Gore Vidal.

Despite the complicated circumstances, sparks flew between them.

Newman later admitted to starting a relationship with Woodward before officially divorcing Witte, expressing regret about how he handled the situation, especially regarding their children.

He reflected, “What I did just didn’t have any class. I didn’t take them aside and give them comfort by explanation.”

Their connection deepened, leading to their marriage in 1958.

2. Their Family Grew to Six Children

After their wedding in Las Vegas, Newman and Woodward quickly embraced family life.

Woodward became a stepmother to Newman’s three children from his first marriage, and they welcomed three daughters together: Elinor, Melissa, and Claire “Clea.”

Clea has since become an ambassador for her father’s charitable organization, showcasing the family’s commitment to giving back.

3. They Were Both Nominated for Oscars in the Same Year

In a remarkable twist of fate, Newman and Woodward made history in 1969 by both receiving Oscar nominations for their work on the film Rachel, Rachel.

Woodward starred in the film, while Newman directed it, and their daughter Nell even appeared as a younger version of Woodward’s character.

Woodward was nominated for Best Actress, while Newman was nominated for Best Picture as both producer and director.

Though neither won that year, their nominations highlighted their exceptional talents and collaboration.

4. Woodward and Clea Graduated Together

In another heartwarming family moment, both Woodward and her daughter Clea graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in 1990.

Newman delivered the commencement speech, celebrating the achievements of both women.

Clea’s sister, Lissy, had also graduated from the same college two years earlier, creating a proud legacy for the Newman family.

5. They Endured Tragedy Together

While their marriage is often viewed as a fairytale, it wasn’t without its challenges.

In 1978, Newman’s oldest son, Scott, tragically died from an accidental drug and alcohol overdose at the young age of 28.

The couple faced this heartbreaking loss together, showcasing their resilience and support for one another during difficult times.

6. Their Commitment to Charitable Work

By the late 1980s, Newman and Woodward shifted their focus from acting to philanthropy.

They co-founded Newman’s Own, a food company known for its salad dressing, which donates nearly all its profits to charitable causes.

Their daughter Clea shared that both parents instilled the importance of giving back in their children, emphasizing the values of compassion and generosity.

7. The Secret to Their Relationship Success

While Newman was one of the most handsome actors of his time, Woodward emphasized that looks were secondary to what truly kept them together.

In a 2002 interview on The Today Show, she stated, “What finally is left is if you can make somebody laugh, then that’s very important.”

Newman had a knack for keeping Woodward laughing, which she believed was a cornerstone of their relationship.

8. A Steamy Connection

Despite their deep emotional connection, Newman’s posthumously released memoir revealed some steamy details about their early romance.

He humorously recounted, “We left a trail of lust all over the place—hotels and public parks and Hertz Rent-A-Cars.”

Newman also shared that Woodward referred to their shared bedroom as “the F— Hut,” highlighting the playful and passionate nature of their intimacy, even amidst family life.

Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward’s love story is filled with passion, resilience, and a commitment to one another that transcended the challenges of Hollywood.

Their journey together serves as a reminder that true love can endure, inspire, and create a lasting legacy.

As we celebrate their remarkable relationship, we are reminded that behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood lies a profound connection that can withstand the test of time.