Ariana Longson
Updated on: October 8, 2024 3:27 pm GMT
Actor Dennis Quaid shared insights about his defunct marriage to actress Meg Ryan during a recent appearance on the HBO Max show “Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace.” During the interview, the 70-year-old actor reflected on their decade-long relationship and emphasized that he harbors no regrets regarding their time together, despite the challenges they faced, including allegations of infidelity and the pressures of celebrity status.
Looking Back on a High-Profile Marriage
Quaid and Ryan, who tied the knot in 1991, stood together as one of Hollywood’s celebrated couples until their divorce in 2001. Reflecting on their marriage, Quaid acknowledged the impact of Ryan’s escalating fame on their relationship dynamics. “When I met Meg, I was here as far as career thing and she was here, and then it just went like that,” he stated, indicating the disparity in their professional trajectories. Ryan’s star power surged with major hits like “Sleepless in Seattle” and “When Harry Met Sally,” while Quaid faced personal challenges, including rehab stints, that affected his career trajectory.
In light of this, Quaid admitted, “I tried to be a big person and tell myself that didn’t bother me, but people are human.” He expressed admiration for Ryan, describing her as a “great, sweet person” who truly deserved her success. This acknowledgment of her accomplishments was central to Quaid’s reflections, showcasing a blend of respect and personal introspection.
Regrets and Revelations
Diving deeper into the complexities of their relationship, Quaid addressed the alleged infidelities that plagued their marriage. He did not shy away from the turbulent aspects, confirming that both he and Ryan had affairs. His appreciation for their union remains steadfast, however. “I don’t regret anything about my marriage to Meg,” he stated. We got Jack Quaid out of it, who is really going on to maybe eclipse both of us.” Their son, Jack, has carved a notable career in acting, starring in popular projects such as ”The Boys” and “Oppenheimer.
The sentiment behind Quaid’s reflection coincides with previous sentiments expressed by Ryan. In a 2006 interview with Oprah Winfrey, she described the circumstances of their marriage’s end, indicating that external pressures, including media sensationalism, contributed to their split. “I didn’t leave my marriage for Russell Crowe; I left my marriage,” Ryan clarified, emphasizing that her relationship with Crowe was a byproduct of her “unhealthy marriage” to Quaid.
The Far-Reaching Effects of Fame
Quaid’s commentary also opened a dialogue about the peculiar pressures that fame can put on personal relationships. The former couple’s celebrity status often attracted media attention, complicating their private lives. Quaid noted that once the tabloids got involved, ”you’re just really in trouble,” further complicating their efforts to navigate their relationship amidst public scrutiny.
Reflecting on these pressures, Quaid noted, “It was a growth opportunity — I learned from that.” His evolving perspective demonstrates a commitment to personal development, even in the face of difficulties. “The Parent Trap” star admitted to experiencing feelings of insignificance as Ryan’s fame escalated, yet he continues to express nothing but positive sentiments regarding their shared history.
Subsequent Romantic Paths
Since their divorce, Quaid has remarried twice, first to Kimberly Buffington in 2004 and later to Laura Savoie in 2020. His journey of love has seen both highs and lows, reflective of the complexities of maintaining personal connections in the public eye. In contrast, Ryan has remained single since her brief engagement to musician John Mellencamp, which ended in 2019. Both actors have spoken openly about their relationships, favoring honesty over the idealized portrayals often seen in Hollywood narratives.
Ryan’s views on dating in her 60s reveal a candid perspective, admitting in a recent interview that the dating landscape remains as perplexing as ever. ”I don’t think anyone ever gets good at it,” she remarked, shedding light on the universal struggles of romance irrespective of age or fame.
Continuing Professional Journeys
Both actors have maintained thriving careers post-marriage, with Quaid embracing a range of roles in film and television. He continues to be a prominent figure in the industry, embodying characters that resonate with audiences. Similarly, Ryan, often heralded as a rom-com auteur, has continued to contribute significantly to cinema, expanding her repertoire beyond romantic leads.
Quaid thinks a lot about his marriage to Ryan. He sees how love, fame, and growing as a person can be both good and bad. They have shared many experiences together, and their son, Jack Quaid, reminds them that even when things get tough, relationships can teach us important lessons and help us connect with others. Both actors are trying to understand their past while enjoying their lives today.
