At the New York City premiere of his latest film, *Red One*, J.K. Simmons took a moment to discuss the keys to a successful marriage during an interview with PEOPLE on Monday, November 11. The esteemed actor, 69, who has been happily married to his wife, Michelle Schumacher, since 1996, shared his insights on maintaining a strong relationship.
“Be nice. Be on the nice list,” Simmons advised, emphasizing the importance of kindness in a partnership. He underscored that “listening” is also crucial, a skill he acknowledges he is continuously striving to improve upon, even after decades of marriage. “None of us do that all the time, and it’s still a work in progress with me, but I really try to listen — to really listen,” he explained, hinting at the challenges that come with truly hearing one’s partner.
Simmons and Schumacher, who is a talented writer and director at 58, have built a life together since their marriage, raising two children: 25-year-old Joe and 22-year-old Olivia. They first crossed paths in 1991 during a production of *Peter Pan*, where Schumacher showcased her skills as a dancer while Simmons took on the role of the villainous Captain Hook.
Reflecting on their initial meeting, Simmons recalled a whimsical moment that set the stage for their future together. “I rented a car, and I don’t remember where I was heading, but as I was leaving the parking lot, I spotted our dance captain walking alongside this beautiful, petite blonde,” he recounted, with a twinkle of nostalgia in his eyes. “I was determined not to be that guy who gawks at a gorgeous woman.”
The actor also reminisced about a significant yet awkward encounter in Schumacher’s dressing room before a performance. “I wanted to wish her luck for the show,” he said with a chuckle, “but on my way out, I made an absolute fool of myself. I knocked on her door, she said ‘Come in,’ and I walked in to find her dressed only in her dance underwear, like many dancers do. I panicked, tried to play it cool, and turned to make my exit. But I tragically stubbed my big toe on the door, squealing like a little kid.”
Despite this embarrassing moment, Simmons fondly remembered how Schumacher was charmed by him. “Somehow, she still found me attractive,” he joked, reflecting on how love can blossom despite mishaps.
Interestingly, time would reveal that the attraction was mutual. Simmons later learned from Schumacher that she had also had a crush on him when they first met. “Much later on, Michelle admitted to me that she had spotted me and said, ‘Oh, who’s that?’ when she first saw me. The dance captain had casually responded, ‘Oh, that’s J.K. He’s straight. He’s our Captain Hook,’” he shared with a grin.
The couple’s journey together is not only a testament to their enduring love but also an inspiring reminder of the simple yet profound elements that contribute to a lasting relationship.
