Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. have been one of Hollywood’s most enduring couples, and as they approach their 24th wedding anniversary, the actress is sharing the surprisingly simple rule that has helped keep their relationship strong.
The Secret Rule
Speaking to E! News at the premiere of Netflix’s Star Search, Gellar revealed that the key to harmony in her marriage is straightforward: “Separate bathrooms. That’s what I always say.” It may sound small, but for Gellar, having her own space has been a game-changer. Fellow judge Chrissy Teigen agreed, noting that she and husband John Legend also follow the same practice to “keep the sexy and preserve the sexy.”
A Love Story That Lasts
Gellar, 48, and Prinze Jr., 49, tied the knot in 2002 after first meeting on the set of I Know What You Did Last Summer. Over the years, they’ve built a strong foundation rooted in friendship, respect, and quality time together. In a 2025 interview with Variety, Prinze Jr. reflected on the realities of marriage: “Marriage is hard, no matter what business you’re in. What works for us might not work for everyone else. We work at it. I’m not perfect. She’s not perfect. We piss each other off, but we respect one another.”
Making Time for Each Other
The couple has often emphasized the importance of carving out daily moments together. Back in 2016, Gellar told PEOPLE that their guiding principle was attentiveness. “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 said. Her advice highlights the couple’s commitment to being present, even amid busy schedules and family responsibilities.
Family Life
Together, Gellar and Prinze Jr. share two children: daughter Charlotte Grace, born in 2009, and son Rocky James, born in 2012. Both actors have balanced their careers with parenting, often sharing glimpses of their family life while keeping their children largely out of the spotlight.
Why It Works
For Gellar and Prinze Jr., the secret to their decades-long marriage isn’t grand gestures but rather respect, friendship, and small daily choices — like separate bathrooms — that help maintain balance. Their story serves as a reminder that lasting love often thrives on simplicity and consistency. As they near their 24th year of marriage, the couple continues to inspire fans with their enduring bond and practical wisdom.
