Denzel Washington and his wife Pauletta recently celebrated a milestone in both their personal and professional lives. At the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), the couple proudly attended the premiere of their son Malcolm Washington’s directorial debut, marking yet another accomplishment for their family. As they spoke with PEOPLE, the couple shared insights into their 41-year marriage, focusing on love, dedication, and the challenges of a long-lasting relationship.
On September 10, Denzel, 69, and Pauletta, 73, walked the red carpet for the premiere of The Piano Lesson, directed by Malcolm. In an interview, Pauletta reflected on her and Denzel’s four decades of marriage, revealing that there is no “secret” to their success. Instead, she highlighted the importance of effort, prayer, and forgiveness.
“We work at it. It’s work,” Pauletta told PEOPLE. “There are a lot of prayers for strength, staying in a mode of forgiveness, and that applies to both of us. But, at the core, it’s the basic love we have for each other.”
The couple’s love story began in 1977 when they met on the set of Denzel’s first movie, Wilma. However, it wasn’t until months later, at a mutual friend’s party, that they started talking and eventually began dating. Six years later, in June 1983, they tied the knot and now have four children—John David, 40, Katia, 37, and twins Malcolm and Olivia, 33.
In addition to celebrating their son Malcolm’s directing debut, the TIFF premiere was a family affair. Their eldest son, John David, stars in the film, and their daughter, Katia, serves as a producer. Denzel also co-produced the movie, which is an adaptation of August Wilson’s 1987 play The Piano Lesson. Malcolm dedicated the film to his mother, Pauletta, acknowledging her as the heart of the project.
“This movie is so personal to me, and the people I got to make it with are the closest people in my life,” Malcolm shared with PEOPLE at the Telluride Film Festival, adding that his mother was “at the center” of the film.
When asked at the TIFF premiere about the secret to his parents’ enduring marriage, Malcolm admitted he was still searching for the answer. “I don’t know,” he said with a laugh. “They love each other, but I don’t know what the secret is. I’m trying to find out.”
Denzel, meanwhile, expressed pride in his son’s accomplishments and shared his excitement for what lies ahead. “I’m happy that people will get to see Malcolm’s talent as a filmmaker,” Denzel said at the premiere. “I’m looking forward to our future work together with August Wilson.”
For the Washingtons, family, love, and storytelling remain at the heart of their lives, and their bond continues to grow stronger with each passing year.