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Dame Joanna Lumley is one of our most recognisable and iconic British stars, with a career spanning nearly half a century. But one of Joanna’s proudest achievements is her long and happy marriage – later this year, she’s celebrating her 37th wedding anniversary with husband Stephen Barlow.
Joanna and musician and conductor Stephen are now also working together, having just launched their podcast, Joanna and the Maestro, in which the pair affectionately discuss their passion for classical music.
And Joanna (76), shares the secret to her joyful partnership. “They say the secret to a long marriage is not to get divorced – a perfect answer,” she says.
“But the real secret is starting off with respect. Don’t marry someone if you don’t respect them, know that you admire them for what they do and who they are. Have courtesy and be kind to your partner. Stephen and I love and respect each other, and I think that’s what you need. The second most important thing is that they must be your best friend. Your real go-to and trusted friend.”
Joanna & The Maestro is available every Tuesday on all major podcast platforms.