Finding a marriage that works in Hollywood, sometimes can be a huge challenge. Cheating, Separation and Divorce cases have been on the rise- one scandal after another. But Denzel Washington and his actress wife Pauletta are a true inspiration, having been together for 36 years.

When asked what make theirs work having celebrated 36 years together as a couple, the super star (Denzel) told People magazine: “There’s too many things!” said Washington of what he appreciates most about his better half. “What pops into my head: security, food, a beautiful home. The difference between a house and a home, it’s a big difference. You can buy a house, but that doesn’t make it a home – and not to say a man can’t make a home a home, but my wife has made our house a home, and raised these beautiful kids [John David,33, Katia, 30, twins Olivia and Malcolm, 27] and protected them and sacrificed for them, she did the heavy-lifting.”

This marriage has truly stood out over the years and has not only served as one of Hollywood’s longest lasting relationships but has also been one of the most successful marriages in the black community in the U.S.

In a 2010 interview then with The Guardian, Denzel said: “There is no secret to the perfect marriage. I have been married 27 years to Pauletta. Everybody has their ups and downs; we’ve had ours. It’s hard work, you know. But we made a commitment. A spiritual foundation helps everything—marriage, work, peace of mind.”

64-year-old Denzel Washington is an Academy award-winning actor, director, and producer while his wife, 68-year-old Pauletta Pearson is an actress and producer.