Actress Sarah Michelle Gellar has offered a candid glimpse into the enduring success of her marriage with fellow actor Freddie Prinze Jr., revealing a surprisingly simple domestic choice that has played a pivotal role in their relationship.
A Simple Yet Effective Strategy
Speaking at the premiere of Netflix's Star Search, where she serves as a judge, Gellar disclosed the one small practice she believes has made a significant impact on their marital happiness. "Separate bathrooms. That's what I always say," the 48-year-old actress shared with E! News. This revelation highlights how practical arrangements at home can contribute to personal space and harmony within a partnership.
Interestingly, fellow judge Chrissy Teigen echoed a similar sentiment at the same event, explaining that she and her husband, John Legend, also maintain designated spaces to "keep the sexy and preserve the sexy." This suggests that such boundaries are valued by other high-profile couples navigating busy lives in the public eye.
Building on a Foundation of Friendship and Respect
Gellar and Prinze Jr., who tied the knot in 2002, have now been married for over two decades. They are parents to two children: daughter Charlotte Grace, born in 2009, and son Rocky James, born in 2012. Over the years, both have been open about the principles underpinning their strong union.
In July 2025, Prinze Jr. told Variety that marriage requires consistent effort, regardless of profession. "Marriage is hard, no matter what business you’re in. What works for us might not work for everyone else," he stated. He emphasised mutual respect, acknowledging, "We work at it. I’m not perfect. She’s not perfect. We piss each other off, but we respect one another."
The actor also credited their enduring connection to having been friends before becoming romantically involved, while noting that every relationship is unique. Their professional collaboration on films like Scooby-Doo (2002) and its 2004 sequel, where they portrayed Daphne and Fred, allowed their on-screen chemistry to flourish off-screen, helping them navigate Hollywood's challenges together.
Prioritising Quality Time and Presence
Looking back to 2016, during their 13th year of marriage, Gellar told PEOPLE that being attentive and carving out small daily moments was crucial. "Take the 10 minutes. Put the phone down. Have a cup of coffee together. Walk the dog at the end of the night. Read a story with your kids. Make the most of the time that you have," she advised.
She added a poignant reminder about mindfulness in relationships: "We are all pulled in so many directions, so make sure that, whichever one you are focusing on, you’re present." This focus on quality over quantity has been a recurring theme in their shared philosophy.
The Bigger Picture of Marital Success
As they approach their 24th wedding anniversary, Gellar and Prinze Jr. continue to prioritise small gestures, shared routines, and mutual respect. Their journey illustrates that even seemingly minor choices, like maintaining separate bathrooms, can foster a meaningful and lasting partnership.
Their insights resonate beyond celebrity circles, offering relatable advice for couples striving to balance personal space with togetherness in modern relationships. By combining practical boundaries with emotional attentiveness, they demonstrate a holistic approach to marital longevity that many can aspire to emulate.
