Love Wins: Meet the Most Inspiring LGBTQ+ Power Couples!
George Takei and Brad Altman
Actor George Takei, beloved for his iconic role as Hikaru Sulu on Star Trek, met his husband Brad Altman in the 1980s at a gay running club. While George wasn’t publicly out at the time, they bonded over their shared love of running.
Over the years, their connection grew from friendly competition to a deep partnership. In 2005, a pivotal moment arrived. George came out publicly, and his relationship with Brad soon entered the spotlight. With California legalizing same-gender marriage in 2008, they were among the first couples to celebrate their love with “I do’s.”
Jim Parson and Todd Spiewak
In the galaxy of Hollywood, Jim Parsons, the brainy heartthrob from “The Big Bang Theory,” and his partner Todd Spiewak, a maestro of art direction, found their stars aligned in 2002 over a battle of wits and hits at a karaoke bar.
Fast forward to 2017, and the duo decided to tie the knot, exchanging more than just flawless harmonies. Jim’s antics as Sheldon Cooper might have won him accolades, but Todd orchestrates the aesthetics off-screen, proving they’re a power couple that perfectly blends science with art.
Kate McKinnon and Jackie Abbott
Around 2017, the captivating world of comedy and photography collided when “Saturday Night Live” star Kate McKinnon and actress-photographer Jackie Abbott began their intriguing romance. Known for her hilarious impersonations, Kate has earned her stripes as a comedy icon, while Jackie shines through her evocative photography.
Their relationship first caught public attention during a glamorous walk at the 2017 Emmys red carpet, revealing a partnership grounded in mutual support and privacy. Opting to focus on their respective careers rather than parenting, the couple cherishes their privacy, allowing their love story to flourish away from the limelight.
Don Lemon and Tim Malone
Emmy-winning journalist Don Lemon, known for his thought-provoking commentary on CNN, met real estate broker Tim Malone in 2016 at a restaurant in the Hamptons. Their connection was instant; by 2018, they were celebrating their love with a New Year’s Eve kiss broadcast live across the nation.
The couple’s 2019 engagement, announced with the help of their adorable dogs sporting “Daddy Will You Marry Papa?” collars, was met with cheers from fans and a wider LGBTQ+ community. Finally, in 2024, they tied the knot in a star-studded ceremony officiated by the U.S. ambassador to the UN.
Kristy McNichol and Martie Allen
Kristy McNichol, an Emmy-winning actress known for her role in “Family,” and Martie Allen, who prefers to keep a low profile, have been in a committed relationship since the early 1990s.
Kristy, who captured hearts as a teen idol in the 1970s and 1980s, stepped back from the spotlight to focus on personal happiness and mental health advocacy. In 2012, she revealed her partnership with Martie to combat bullying and support LGBTQ+ youth. They have chosen not to have children, instead dedicating themselves to each other and their shared causes.
Chely Wright and Lauren Blitzer
Country singer Chely Wright, known for hits like “Single White Female,” took a courageous step in 2010 by coming out as one of the first openly gay celebrities in the genre. Shortly after, at a charity event that same year, fate brought her together with Lauren Blitzer, an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
Their connection was strong, and by 2011, they were married in a ceremony officiated by both a rabbi and a reverend. In 2013, the couple welcomed twins via surrogate, completing their family.
Samantha Fox and Linda Olsen
Samantha Fox, an icon of the 1980s pop scene and former glamor model, found love with Linda Olsen, a Norwegian native. The pair, united in their affection, officially got engaged in 2020, amidst a world turning on its head due to the pandemic.
Their relationship marks a significant chapter in Samantha’s life, offering solace and companionship after her previous partner’s tragic passing in 2015. As they plan for their upcoming wedding, the couple also actively engages in charitable activities, strengthening their bond through shared values and community service.
Samira Wiley and Lauren Morelli
Actress Samira Wiley, best known for her role as Poussey Washington in the hit series “Orange is the New Black,” met screenwriter Lauren Morelli on set in 2012. Morelli was a writer and co-producer on the show at the time. Their connection went beyond the professional, and by 2014, Lauren had come out publicly, and their relationship blossomed.
In 2017, they celebrated their love with a Palm Springs wedding. In 2018, they welcomed their first child, a daughter named Stevie, via surrogate. Samira and Lauren continue to be powerful forces for LGBTQ+ representation, both on screen and off.
Rachel Maddow and Susan Mikula
News anchor Rachel Maddow, known for her sharp political commentary on MSNBC, has been in a long-term partnership with visual artist Susan Mikula. Their meet-cute is an unexpected one: Rachel, working on a side hustle in 1999, was hired by Susan to do some yard work.
It seems love can blossom anywhere, even while digging up tree stumps! While details about their early relationship are private, they’ve been together ever since. In 2020, Rachel publicly acknowledged Susan’s battle with a popular virus, highlighting their unwavering support for each other.
Bob Harper and Anton Gutierrez
Renowned fitness guru Bob Harper and creative set and prop stylist Anton Gutierrez first sparked their romance in 2016, sharing a keen interest in health and aesthetics. Their bond deepened over the years, culminating in a heartfelt engagement in 2019.
Surrounded by close friends and family, they celebrated this joyous occasion, marking a new chapter in their lives. Bob and Anton, choosing not to have children, focus on nurturing their shared passions and supporting each other’s endeavors. Their relationship stands as a vibrant example of love and commitment.
Jim Nabors and Stan Cadwallader
Jim Nabors, famed for his role as Gomer Pyle in both “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.,” and Stan Cadwallader, a former firefighter, met in 1975 when Stan was working in Honolulu.
Their friendship blossomed into a profound partnership, culminating in marriage in 2013, soon after same-gender marriage became legal in Washington. The couple had no children but shared a life filled with laughter and mutual respect. A significant moment in their relationship was when Jim publicly came out in 2012, aligning his public persona with his private happiness.
Meredith Baxter and Nancy Locke
Meredith Baxter, beloved for her role as the matriarch on the classic TV series “Family Ties,” and Nancy Locke, a general contractor, formed a strong connection after meeting through mutual friends in 2005. The couple’s relationship blossomed over shared interests and deep conversations, leading to their marriage in an intimate ceremony in 2013.
While Meredith has five children from previous marriages, she and Nancy have no children together. Their union was a significant step for Meredith, who came out publicly in 2009, embracing her identity with Nancy’s support.
David Hyde Pierce and Brian Hargrove
Emmy-winning actor David Hyde Pierce, best known for his role as the sardonic Niles Crane on “Frasier,” has shared a beautiful partnership with writer and producer Brian Hargrove. The details of their initial meeting in the early 1980s remain private, but their friendship blossomed into a committed relationship over the years.
In 2007, they took a significant step by entering into a domestic partnership, a legal recognition of same-gender couples at the time. David and Brian have kept their relationship largely out of the spotlight, but their dedication to each other for over four decades speaks volumes.
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia De Rossi
Long before selfies and social media dominance, Ellen DeGeneres, the queen of daytime talk shows, and actress Portia de Rossi first crossed paths at a casual gathering in 2001. Though fate wouldn’t intervene for a few more years, the seed of connection was quietly sown.
By 2004, when the time was right, their friendship blossomed into a love story. In 2008, with a shift in legal landscapes, Ellen and Portia solidified their commitment in a beautiful ceremony. Over nearly two decades, theirs has become a love story synonymous with enduring support and unwavering dedication.
George Takei and Brad Altman
Actor George Takei, beloved for his iconic role as Hikaru Sulu on Star Trek, met his husband Brad Altman in the 1980s at a gay running club. While George wasn’t publicly out at the time, they bonded over their shared love of running.
Over the years, their connection grew from friendly competition to a deep partnership. In 2005, a pivotal moment arrived. George came out publicly, and his relationship with Brad soon entered the spotlight. With California legalizing same-gender marriage in 2008, they were among the first couples to celebrate their love with “I do’s.”
Lily Tomlin and Jane Wagner
Imagine falling for someone in two minutes flat. That’s the love story of comedy icon Lily Tomlin and writer Jane Wagner. A chance meeting in 1971, orchestrated by a friend, became instant sparks for Lily. Their connection blossomed into a creative and romantic partnership.
While they didn’t pursue parenthood, their family bloomed through hilarious collaborations. Lily and Jane’s comedic chemistry is legendary, from co-writing routines to gracing variety shows together. After decades of love and laughter, they finally sealed the deal with a heartwarming New Year’s Eve wedding in 2013.
Lance Bass and Michael Turchin
Lance Bass, famed *NSYNC singer, and Michael Turchin, a talented painter, first crossed paths at a birthday party in 2011. Their immediate connection led to a sparkling engagement in 2013 and a spectacular wedding in 2014, celebrated on a TV special. As advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, their relationship has been as much about love as activism.
In 2021, the couple welcomed twins via surrogate, expanding their family and joy. Their journey has been filled with personal and public milestones, embodying a blend of glamor and deep commitment.
Cynthia Nixon and Christine Marinoni
Cynthia Nixon, famed for her role in “S*x and the City,” and Christine Marinoni, an education activist, first met in 2001 while advocating for public schools in New York City. The duo made their love official in 2012 with a heartfelt wedding.
They share one son, who was born in 2011, adding to Cynthia’s two children from a previous relationship. When Cynthia ran for governor of New York in 2018, Christine was a pillar of support throughout the campaign, illustrating their strong partnership.
Raven-Symoné and Miranda Maday
Raven-Symoné, the star who first captured hearts on “The Cosby Show” and later on “That’s So Raven,” married Miranda Maday, a social media manager, in a surprise backyard ceremony in 2020. The couple met through mutual industry connections a few years prior, their romance blossoming quietly away from the limelight.
They have chosen not to have children, focusing on their careers and each other instead. Their wedding was revealed through heartfelt Instagram posts and showcased their joy and commitment. This significant event in their lives highlights their deep bond and shared journey.
Maria Bello and Dominique Crenn
In 2019, at a dinner party, Maria Bello, known for her compelling roles in “NCIS” and “Coyote Ugly,” connected with Dominique Crenn, a chef famed for earning three Michelin stars. Maria was captivated by Dominique’s culinary prowess, and their romance swiftly deepened.
By February 2020, the pair announced their engagement at Elton John’s annual Oscar party. Maria, who is a mother to one son from a previous relationship, and Dominique exchanged vows in a picturesque wedding ceremony in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, in May 2024, celebrating their commitment to a shared future filled with love and gourmet delights.
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