Cary Elwes Shares the ‘Very Important’ Secret Behind His 25-Year Marriage

After more than three decades together and 25 years of marriage, Cary Elwes says the key to his lasting relationship with wife Lisa Marie Elwes comes down to one essential practice: gratitude. In a recent interview, the Princess Bride star reflected on the milestone anniversary the couple celebrated in 2025 and explained why appreciation remains the foundation of their relationship.

“Living in Gratitude” as a Daily Practice

Elwes, 63, credits “living in gratitude” as the most important part of his marriage. He says that mindset applies not only to how he and his wife treat each other, but also to how they view their life together.

“I think that’s a very important part of our relationship,” Elwes said, noting that gratitude extends beyond romance to family, home, and shared experiences. For the actor, that outlook has helped anchor the couple through both joyful milestones and unexpected challenges.

A Chance Meeting That Changed Everything

The couple’s story began long before Hollywood anniversaries and red carpets. Elwes met Lisa Marie in 1991 at the Malibu Chili Cook-Off, a lively community event complete with carnival rides and music. They bonded quickly, even sharing a ride that became symbolic of what was to come. Elwes remembers telling her at the time that life together would be “a crazy ride,” a comment that proved prophetic over the decades.

Family Comes First — Always

Despite a busy acting career, Elwes says being away from his family is the hardest part of filming. The couple share an 18-year-old daughter, Dominique, who graduated from high school in 2025 and is now studying film in college.

“My family are who I am,” Elwes said. “As soon as they yell ‘Cut!’ and send me home, I’m bereft without them.”

Though Dominique has left for college, Elwes jokes that the family doesn’t quite feel like empty nesters. She frequently returns home, something he views as a sign of how close they remain.

A Year of Highs and Lows

The past year brought significant changes for the Elwes family. In January, they lost their home during the California wildfires — a devastating setback. At the same time, they celebrated their silver wedding anniversary and watched their daughter take her next steps into adulthood. Elwes says those contrasts reinforced his belief in gratitude, even during difficult periods. Holding onto perspective helped the family navigate loss while still honoring moments of joy.

Supporting the Next Generation

Dominique’s decision to pursue filmmaking has been especially meaningful for Elwes, who calls it a “blessing” to see her follow her own creative instincts. She has already made her first short film, something her father says makes him immensely proud. His advice to her mirrors the philosophy he lives by: be authentic.

“Don’t try to be anyone else,” Elwes said. “Your uniqueness is what makes you interesting.”

Looking Ahead — On Screen and Off

Elwes currently stars in the new thriller Dead Man’s Wire, which is playing in select theaters before a wider release later this month. While he remains committed to his craft, he says family will always come first. As for working with his daughter one day? Elwes laughs that she may soon outshine him — and that he’ll happily call her agent when the time comes.