From Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher to J.Lo and Marc Anthony, a string of
Hollywood’s celebrity couples have recently parted ways. These relationships (among many others) prove that even the rich and famous have trouble dating and sticking it out in the long-term. But despite the demise of more than a few tabloid-worthy marriages, there are still some A-list pairs who seem to know what it takes to make a relationship work.

We take a closer look at some of our favourite famous couples and find out what makes their relationships go the distance.

The wholesome couple: Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck

Started dating: 2004
Married: June 2005

Though both longtime members of the A-list, this duo remains heavily involved in family life, often photographed holding their kids, picking them up from school and classes and providing them with a seemingly natural and spotlight-free upbringing. Unlike many other celebrity couples in the limelight Affleck and Garner manage to stay under the radar and don’t often provide the rumor mill with too much fodder. The key to their success so far seems to be their devotion to their daughters and the fact they avoid the Hollywood scene (you’ll never see Garner falling out of a cab at 4 a.m.) and not engaging in or prompting much gossip. They continue to make hit Hollywood films but have found a way to balance work, the spotlight and being a happy family.

The light-hearted pair: Nicole Richie and Joel Madden

Started dating: December 2006
Married: December 2010

These two aren’t in the spotlight much but when they are it’s clear from photos depicting a laughing, smiling couple that they have fun together. This playful nature keeps things interesting and likely keeps them both on their toes, which is an important part of keeping any relationship strong and avoiding a rut. They are also able to both maintain their own independence, with Richie running her various jewellery and fashion lines and Madden promoting his band and working on his music. Many couples need to have their own lives outside of the relationship in order to feel a sense of purpose, something Richie and Madden seem to do. So far they have been able to maintain a level of love and devotion that isn’t dependent on being together every waking minute.

More happy celebrity couples on the next page… 

The supporters: Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt

Started dating: summer 2005

Considered Hollywood’s golden couple, these mega stars have more than just good looks, kind hearts and a love for their children that unites them. Just listening to any of their independent interviews, it becomes clear they respect and admire one another a great deal. In a recent issue of Parade magazine, Pitt describes Jolie as a great mother and says starting a family with her was "one of the greatest, smartest things I ever did." Good relationships thrive on mutual support and Pitt and Jolie never miss a chance to rally for each other. They are one another’s biggest fan and you can tell that they are both on the same page. Relationships work best when the balance of power is equal.

The free spirits: Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell Started dating: 1983

One of Hollywood’s longest lasting couples, Hawn and Russell have been together for an almost unprecedented 28 years (a lifetime by celebrity standards). The two stars have a son together and Hawn’s children from a previous relationship with Bill Hudson, Kate and Oliver, consider Russell their dad. Hawn has been quoted about her decision not to wed saying: "It really is waking up every day and making the decision that you want to be there. And I like that freedom. I like the ability to make that decision. And I think it’s really good. We don’t lose each other. We don’t lose ourselves." Instead of worrying and wondering about where they stand, the take a much more easy-going, low-key approach that works for them.

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