Holland Taylor is shedding light on the key to her enduring age-gap relationship with Sarah Paulson. The 80-year-old actress, renowned for her roles in hit films and TV shows, including “Two and a Half Men” and “The Morning Show,” has been romantically involved with the 48-year-old Paulson since 2015, sparking curiosity due to their 32-year age difference.
Despite the initial surprise, Taylor and Paulson’s relationship has stood the test of time, with the couple openly expressing their love for each other over the past eight years. Taylor emphasized their strong bond during an appearance on Sandra Bernhard’s SiriusXM show, proclaiming herself as the luckiest person in the world.
Paulson, equally smitten, described Taylor as “the most exquisitely beautiful woman” she had ever seen in an interview with the New York Times. Unfazed by public opinions, Paulson asserted, “If anyone wants to spend any time thinking I’m strange for loving the most spectacular person on the planet, then that’s their problem. I’m doing just fine.”
So, what’s the secret behind their enduring relationship? Taylor revealed to Page Six that allowing each other space to follow their individual paths is the key. Recognizing their differences, Taylor explained, “She’s much more social, and I like a little bit of alone time, so I have that. She spends some time with friends and not with me, so it’s a good balance.”
Despite their close bond, the couple has faced scrutiny and skepticism about their age-gap union. Paulson admitted to initially considering the potential impact on her career but ultimately dismissed those concerns, stating, “But then, you know, I did it anyway.”
Addressing the backlash, Paulson acknowledged receiving “horrifying” and “cruel” messages about their relationship. However, she emphasized her resilience, noting that she tries not to let negative comments affect her.
In response to critics, Paulson defiantly declared that she doesn’t care about people’s opinions regarding their age difference. Drawing a parallel with other celebrity couples with significant age gaps, she questioned the double standards, stating, “I don’t remember people going nuts about Michael Douglas and Catherine-Zeta Jones, in terms of their age difference,” referring to the couple’s 25-year age gap.
Interestingly, the couple’s approach to maintaining a sense of self in the relationship aligns with expert advice. Taking time for oneself and allowing personal space are recognized as crucial elements for a happy and healthy relationship. Taylor’s recommendation to balance shared time with moments apart is echoed in the broader advice that a partnership should be a significant relationship but not the sole focus, encouraging individuals to maintain their hobbies, interests, and personal connections.
