Oprah Winfrey and Stedman Graham have been together for almost four decades, which is a rarity in Hollywood. But here’s the twist: they’re not exactly known for their public appearances as a couple. Surprisingly, that might be the key to their long-lasting relationship.
Since they became a couple in 1986, Winfrey and Graham have shunned the conventional relationship rulebook. Case in point: They got engaged in 1992 but never tied the knot.
In a 2020 Oprah Daily article, the TV icon revealed that while they knew they wanted to be together, she just wasn’t cut out for a traditional marriage. However, in the early days of their relationship, they didn’t mind attending events together. So, what changed? It all comes down to Oprah’s approach to handling her public persona.
What sets Winfrey and Graham apart from other celebrity couples and gives them staying power is their ability to keep the media at bay. And no, this isn’t about avoiding interviews. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words, and Oprah isn’t keen on letting anyone else dictate her narrative.
Oprah and Stedman’s Secret to a Strong Relationship
In the former years, Oprah Winfrey and Stedman Graham used to make appearances together at numerous events. However, in an episode of “The Goop Podcast” with Gwyneth Paltrow, Winfrey revealed that she had an epiphany. She realized that the smallest facial expression or any subtle moment between them could be twisted into tabloid gossip.
She explained, “Every time a new photo surfaced, a new story was born.” Even though she knew that these stories were far from the truth, it wasn’t worth the emotional stress and strain on their relationship. Consequently, Graham’s public appearances dwindled.
So, did this embargo on public appearances affect their relationship? It seems to have worked wonders. Both Winfrey and Graham have stressed the importance of maintaining their individuality within the relationship.
Speaking on Ellen DeGeneres’ show in 2019, Graham elaborated, “
When you have a good partner that’s able to self-actualize their potential, and you’re able to self-actualize yours, then, you know, one and one equals about six.” This sentiment aligns with what Winfrey has frequently shared, as she wrote for Oprah Daily, “Our relationship works because he created an identity beyond being ‘Oprah’s man.'”
Almost 40 years together, and it’s hard to argue with their approach.