When Warren Beatty began his acting career in the 1960s, he was known for being a dedicated bachelor. With a reputation as a ladies’ man, he enjoyed the company of women whenever he wasn’t on set.
However, everything changed when he met Annette, the woman who would become his wife. According to Beatty, she inspired him to leave behind his old lifestyle and embrace the idea of building a family with a wife and children.
A Turning Point in Beatty’s Life
In the early years of his career, Beatty starred in films such as Bonnie and Clyde and Dick Tracy. During this time, he also enjoyed an active social life, dating numerous women.
That all shifted in 1991 when he met Annette Bening on the set of Bugsy. By then, he was in his 50s. Beatty later admitted that he fell for Annette instantly and, in that very moment, realized he was ready to start a family with her. He described it as love at first sight, saying:
“It took me about five minutes before I realized that she was the one for me. Perhaps even five.”
Although he was certain about his future with Annette, he acknowledged that he had to let go of the life he had known before meeting her.
When asked how he knew he was ready to settle down, Beatty explained that he had never been avoiding marriage—rather, he had been trying to avoid divorce. But when he met Annette, he was confident that they would never part ways.
Keeping the Romance Alive for Over Three Decades
By Hollywood standards, Beatty and Bening’s marriage is remarkably long-lasting, spanning more than 30 years. Naturally, they’ve been asked many times how they have maintained their love for so long.
Both agree that one key factor is the element of surprise. Beatty shared that Annette still manages to surprise him every day, while Annette said she also enjoys the unexpected things her husband does. In addition to keeping things fresh, they continue to go on dates and cherish each other’s company.
In fact, the couple celebrated Valentine’s Day the previous year with a romantic getaway. Annette noted that they don’t feel pressured to do anything extravagant—sometimes, a simple flower or a heartfelt message is enough to express their love.
A Devoted Husband and Father
Despite his bachelor lifestyle before meeting Annette, Beatty always knew he wanted children. When asked about his family, he once said:
“I always knew I wanted to have children.”
He also emphasized that he wanted to start his family with the right partner—someone who shared his values and desire for parenthood. He found that in Annette, and together, they welcomed their four children: Steven, Ben, Isabel, and Ella.
When they decided to start their family, Beatty stepped away from the spotlight to fully support his wife and be present for his children. He later reflected on that decision, saying:
“Annette and having four kids was the most important thing that’s ever happened to me. It was also the nicest thing that’s ever occurred to me.”
Though he briefly returned to acting after their children were born, Beatty has largely led a private life with his family. He has often spoken about them with pride in interviews, and his devotion to them remains clear.
We wish Warren Beatty and Annette Bening many more years of love, happiness, and good health together.