A British relationship expert, Kate Mansfield, says that a large age difference between partners could be the magic formula for a lasting relationship, and gives examples of some famous Hollywood couples.
Sean Penn and his young Moldovan girlfriend, Valeria Nicov. Photo: mirror
A movie star dating a younger, more glamorous partner is a cliché as old as Hollywood, but lately the age gap seems to be widening.
Celebrity couples like Sean Penn, 64, and actress Valeria Nicov, 30, and Dennis Quaid, who is nearly four decades older than his wife Laura, have become the norm. and this rule works both ways, with women also preferring younger partners, writes the DailyMail.
Director Sam Taylor Johnson married husband Aaron in June 2012 and says she barely notices the 23-year age difference, while Cruz Beckham, 19, recently went public with model Jackie Apostel , for 30 years.
According to British relationship expert Kate Mansfield, the age gap can be the secret ingredient to a successful love, thanks to a sense of adventure and increased security.
“Relationships in which there are large age differences between the partners often have a bad reputation and are suspected of manipulation and the fact that the older person takes advantage of the younger one or vice versa, but they can have some unique advantages.” said Kate Mansfield.
“Often, older partners bring a level of maturity and emotional stability that can foster a healthier relationship. They may have more life experience, which can help them face challenges more effectively. An older partner may have developed skills in communication, conflict resolution, and financial management that contribute to a more stable foundation for the relationship.” she continued.
The relationship expert also says that such relationships can also provide the ideal conditions for learning and growth.
“An age difference often means different generational perspectives. This can lead to interesting conversations that bring new information and opportunities for personal growth as you learn from each other’s experiences. The older partner can act as a mentor, sharing insights gained from their life experiences that can help you develop personally and professionally.” she explained.
Another argument brought by Kate Mansfield in favor of relationships where the age difference between the partners is significant is the fact that the older person knows better what they want from life and can give a healthy dynamic to the relationship.
“Older people are often more settled in their lives and know what they want. This clarity can lead to a healthier relationship dynamic, reducing potential drama or toxicity“, she appreciates.
In addition, the expert says, in such relationships, partners can discover that they have complementary values and desires.
“Couples with an age gap may find that they have complementary values, especially if the older partner is in a phase of life where they seek stability and companionship rather than casual dating. The older partner’s life experience can create an enabling environment where both partners feel supported in their aspirations”.
Famous couples
On the red carpet of the Venice Film Festival last month, there were several famous couples, new or old, where there are significant age differences between the partners.
Thus, Brad Pitt made his debut on the red carpet with Ines de Ramon, 31, whom he has been dating for about two years, the ex-wife of “Vampire Diaries” star Paul Wesley, who is his first serious relationship since the divorce from Angelina Jolie.
Brad Pitt and his girlfriend, on the red carpet in Venice. Archive photo
George Clooney, 63, long-time friend and colleague of Brad Pitt, was accompanied by his wife Amal, 46, who, dressed in a bright yellow dress, attracted all eyes on him.
Amal and George Clooney. Archive photo
And Justin Theroux, the ex-husband of Jennifer Aniston, and Nicole Brydon proved that the age difference can be the key to a successful love in Hollywood, with some sources stating that an engagement will follow shortly. The two are a fairly recent couple, but have been dating for over a year, having been spotted together for the first time in February 2023.
Another recent couple, Emma Corrin, 28, and Rami Malek, 43, who have been dating for about a year, looked very much in love at the festival.
Richard Gere, who is 75, and his wife Alejandra Silva, 41, are 34 years apart, but that is not a barrier to their happy relationship, as the actor was caught bowing to his wife his, marveling at her beauty, before taking her in his arms for a kiss.
Richar Gere, happier than ever. Photo: Profimedia