When people look at Hollywood's most enduring relationships, the marriage of Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito often stands out as a masterclass in longevity and mutual respect. While the competitor article above gets basic details wrong—confusing Rhea Perlman with Dallas character Sue Ellen Ewing (who was played by Linda Gray) and misstating their wedding year as 1986 instead of their actual 1982 ceremony—the truth of their partnership is far more interesting than AI-generated slop. They built a multi-decade life together, raised three children, and maintained thriving, independent artistic careers while navigating the relentless pressure cooker of the entertainment industry.
Understanding their journey requires looking beyond tabloid headlines about their separation and separation status. It takes examining how two distinct comedic powerhouses met, collaborated, and carved out a unique space in television and film history.
Meeting and Early Careers in New York Theater
Before they became household names, both Perlman and DeVito honed their craft in the gritty, unglamorous world of off-Broadway theater in New York City. They met in 1971 when Perlman went to see a friend in a short play called The Shrinking Bride, which featured a young Danny DeVito. Sparks flew almost immediately, and within two weeks, they moved in together.
At the time, neither had any guarantee of mainstream success. DeVito was working odd jobs—including styling hair at his sister's beauty salon—while auditioning for commercials and stage roles. Perlman, a Brooklyn College graduate from a working-class family in Bensonhurst, was booking regional theater and small television guest spots. Their shared struggle forged a resilient foundation long before television fame entered the picture.
The Breakthrough: Taxi and Collaborative Projects
Their careers intersected famously in the late 1970s and 1980s. DeVito landed his iconic, Emmy-winning role as the abrasive dispatcher Louie De Palma on the hit sitcom Taxi, which ran from 1978 to 1983. Perlman made several memorable guest appearances on the show as Zena Sherman, the object of Louie's awkward affection.
Soon after, Perlman landed the defining role of her television career: Carla Tortelli, the sharp-tongued, no-nonsense waitress on Cheers. Her performance earned her four Emmy Awards and cemented her status as a comedic titan.
Beyond acting separately, the couple collaborated on major film projects through their production company, Jersey Films. They starred together in the dark comedy classic Matilda (1996), where they played Matilda's neglectful parents, the Wormwoods. Their undeniable on-screen chemistry added a layer of absurd brilliance to Roald Dahl's beloved characters.
Raising a Family Away from the Spotlight
Despite living in the public eye, Perlman and DeVito made a conscious effort to shield their three children—Lucy, Grace, and Jacob—from the invasive nature of tabloid culture. They raised their family primarily in California, prioritizing normal routines, education, and privacy over red-carpet exposure.
Balancing two high-profile careers with parenting required careful coordination. Perlman famously took a step back from heavy television schedules during certain periods to be present at home, proving that their partnership involved active compromise rather than passive delegation.
Evolving Dynamics: Separation and Lifelong Friendship
In 2012, after 30 years of marriage and over four decades together, the couple announced their separation. News outlets rushed to label it the end of an era, but Perlman and DeVito approached their changing relationship with a level of maturity rarely seen in Hollywood.
They never officially divorced. Instead, they redefined their bond, choosing to remain legally married while living separate lives. Perlman has openly discussed in interviews that they remain close friends, share holidays with their children, and talk regularly. Their unique arrangement demonstrates that love and family don't always fit into rigid societal boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito get married?
They married on January 28, 1982, after living together for over a decade since meeting in 1971.
Do Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito have children?
Yes, they share three adult children: Lucy Chet DeVito, Grace Fan DeVito, and Jacob Daniel DeVito. All three have pursued creative careers in acting, producing, or the arts.
Are Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito officially divorced?
No. While they separated in 2012, they chose not to pursue a formal divorce, maintaining a close friendship and legal marriage bond.
What are Rhea Perlman's most famous roles?
She is best known for playing Carla Tortelli on the long-running sitcom Cheers, for which she won four Emmy Awards, and for her role as Mrs. Wormwood in the film adaptation of Matilda.
