SUMMARY
  • Denzel Washington's first date was memorable for all the wrong reasons.
  • The two-time Oscar winner proposed three times before Pauletta said yes.
  • The couple believes that commitment and friendship are the keys to lasting love.

Hollywood love stories are usually filled with charm and glamour, but Denzel Washington’s first date with Pauletta Pearson had a funny twist. When they met in 1977 while filming the TV movie Wilma, it seemed like a typical romantic beginning. 

They clicked instantly, chatting and laughing at a party. But when their first date came around, things took an unexpected turn. The future Oscar winner found himself in a bit of a pickle. 

Denzel Washington in Equalizer 3
Denzel Washington in Equalizer 3 (Credits: Sony Pictures Releasing)

Imagine the scene: a well-dressed Washington, thinking he had everything under control, suddenly realizes he doesn’t have enough cash for the cab. It’s embarrassing for someone going out on a date for the first time. 

Denzel Washington’s First Date Was the Awkward Start

Denzel Washington and Pauletta Washington in Wilma
Denzel Washington and Pauletta Washington in Wilma (Credits: Cappy Productions)

After their initial meet-cute, Denzel Washington and Pauletta Washington decided to go out. Everything seemed perfect until the bill came. The actor, feeling confident, suddenly realized he didn’t have enough cash to pay for the cab. 

Pauletta, being the supportive partner, stepped up and paid the fare. Instead of letting that awkward moment end their date, Pauletta found it endearing, and they both laughed it off. Who knew that such a funny start would lead to a long-lasting love story?

That night, they probably didn’t know they were starting a beautiful love story. Today, they celebrate 39 years of marriage, proving that a little embarrassment can lead to something beautiful.

Washington had a tough childhood, which helped him grow into a caring husband and father. Despite his struggles, he climbed the Hollywood ladder to success.

The couple has been through ups and downs together, including a few proposal mishaps along the way. But Pauletta eventually said “yes” and their bond has only deepened over the years.

Denzel Washington and Pauletta Washington’s Lasting Love

Denzel Washington and Pauletta Washington in The Oprah Winfrey Show
Denzel Washington and Pauletta Washington in The Oprah Winfrey Show (Credits: OWN)

Fast forward to 1983, when Denzel Washington finally proposed to Pauletta. But he had to ask her three times before she said yes! In an interview with Access Hollywood, Washington has joked about being confused by her first two refusals, to which Pauletta simply replied, “Because I said no.”

When they finally got married, it was a big celebration filled with friends and family. But the day had its own little chaos. They were so busy enjoying their reception that they ran out of food! The Hollywood star said on Jimmy Kimmel Live in 2017:

We were shaking so many hands, taking so many pictures, they ran out of food.

Instead of letting that ruin the fun, the newlyweds went to a local diner for breakfast. It was a funny moment that added to their special day. Their love has only grown since then. In 1995, they renewed their vows in a romantic ceremony in South Africa.

Over the years, they’ve shown that a solid relationship isn’t just about love—it’s about sticking together and putting in the effort. The 69-year-old said it best while responding to a fan on Reddit AMA: “It’s not all the honeymoon. You work at it.”

Together, they’ve raised four wonderful children. The two have created a loving home and strong family, despite the challenges of Hollywood. Their relationship has thrived on mutual respect and support. So, what’s their secret to lasting love? Simple: love, laughter, and a bit of understanding.

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