Ann Leary and Denis Leary have been married for over three decades, and their relationship continues to captivate those who follow their lives. Despite their very busy careers—Ann as a writer and Denis as an actor and comedian—the couple has managed to maintain a strong and enduring marriage. In a recent interview on The Martha Stewart Podcast, Ann opened up about the secret behind their successful marriage: space.
Their ability to thrive in a relationship despite their professional commitments speaks volumes about their deep connection. As they celebrate over 30 years of marriage, Ann Leary’s insights into their dynamic relationship offer a glimpse into the intricacies of maintaining a successful partnership in the public eye.
A Unique Marriage Dynamic
Ann Leary, 61, and Denis Leary, 66, first met in the late 1980s and married in 1989. Their relationship has withstood the test of time, with both individuals enjoying thriving careers. Denis, known for his iconic roles in Rescue Me, The Ref, and stand-up comedy specials, is often away for work, especially given his involvement in projects filmed in different locations, including Canada. Ann, on the other hand, is a published author and essayist, with her most recent work being the collection I’ve Tried Being Nice (2023). Her ability to balance her writing career with her family life is part of what makes their relationship work.
During the July 2024 podcast interview with Martha Stewart, Ann shared how the couple’s busy schedules and time apart have allowed them to grow as individuals while maintaining a strong connection. “What is it like living with Denis, who comes and goes?” Martha Stewart asked Ann. Ann responded, “I think that’s the key to a successful marriage.”
Ann expressed that having the space to focus on individual passions and interests has contributed significantly to their happiness. “I’m fascinated by him,” she laughed, adding that their time apart, especially early in the marriage, had worked in their favor. This space, she revealed, has allowed them both to flourish professionally while continuing to appreciate and enjoy each other’s company.
Constant Communication
While their time apart has provided a sense of independence, Ann and Denis have made sure to stay connected through constant communication. This open line of communication has been crucial to their relationship. Ann shared that even when Denis is away, the couple stays in touch regularly. “We’ve been together so long, no matter where he is, he’ll call me and say, ‘Turn on CNN,’ or ‘Turn on this channel,’ because it’s somebody,” she revealed, emphasizing the fun and comfort they find in sharing those moments.
Their constant communication goes beyond the professional realm. In their personal lives, they have built a rich history together, and their ability to share inside jokes and reminisce about shared experiences is something that strengthens their bond. As Ann put it, “It’s just fun to have that kind of history.” This deep connection is part of what makes their relationship unique.
A Shared Love for Humor
Humor is another essential component of Ann and Denis’s successful marriage. Both share a love for comedy and find each other’s company funny, which adds an element of lightheartedness to their relationship. Denis is known for his sharp wit and observational humor, which has resonated with audiences for years. Ann, too, has a comedic touch, and her writing reflects this. She often writes about the dynamics of her family and her experiences in a humorous yet thoughtful way, and her ability to laugh at life’s challenges brings a refreshing balance to their relationship.
In fact, Ann’s latest book I’ve Tried Being Nice touches on her life with Denis and the complexities of being in a marriage with someone as well-known as Denis Leary. In an interview promoting the book, Ann shared that writing about her family and their private lives always involves getting their consent before publishing. “Anything that I write about my family, they get to see before it’s published anywhere,” Ann explained, ensuring that everyone’s privacy and feelings are respected. This thoughtful approach to writing reflects Ann’s awareness of the personal nature of her relationships and her commitment to protecting her family’s privacy.
A Legacy of Support and Privacy
Despite the public nature of their careers, Ann and Denis have managed to keep much of their personal life private. They have rarely been in the media spotlight outside of their professional accomplishments. Their ability to maintain privacy, especially in an industry that often thrives on public disclosure, is a testament to their strong relationship. While Denis has been a household name for years, Ann has chosen to keep a lower profile, focusing on her writing and family life rather than the public eye.
Their dedication to protecting their personal lives has likely played a role in the longevity of their marriage. Ann’s approach to balancing public and private life through thoughtful communication and mutual respect has allowed them to create a stable, grounded family life. The couple’s privacy is also reflected in their interactions with others. Ann is careful about how much she reveals in her work, always mindful of the feelings of her loved ones. “You have to tell your truth, but I like to be mindful of the privacy of people in my life,” she said, acknowledging the importance of maintaining boundaries.
Family Life and Children
Ann and Denis’s family life remains an important part of their dynamic. The couple has a strong relationship not only with each other but also with their children. Both Ann and Denis have prioritized creating a stable, loving environment for their family. While their children’s lives are kept largely private, it is clear that the couple values the importance of nurturing their family bonds, just as they prioritize their relationship.
Their ability to navigate the demands of their respective careers while maintaining a close family unit is a model for other couples in the spotlight. It’s clear that the foundation of their marriage is built on mutual respect, shared humor, and the understanding that both partners need space to thrive.