Goldie Hawn Reveals Why She and Kurt Russell Never Married After 42 Years Together
Goldie Hawn says “freedom” not marriage is the secret behind her four-decade relationship with Kurt Russell
Goldie Hawn is opening up about the philosophy that has kept her relationship with Kurt Russell strong for more than four decades — and it has nothing to do with wedding vows.
In an exclusive clip from The Dan Buettner Podcast, set to premiere January 22, the Oscar-winning actress reflects on her 42-year partnership with Russell and explains why the couple never felt the need to get married. According to Hawn, the foundation of their lasting bond is simple but powerful: freedom.
“I’m a Bird Don’t Close the Cage”
Hawn, now 80, uses a vivid metaphor to describe how independence plays a crucial role in her relationship.
“I have a relationship with birds. I’m a bird,” she explains. “If you leave the cage door open, I may never fly away. But if you close it, I’d probably want to take all my feathers off.”
For Hawn, the ability to remain fully herself — without losing individuality inside a partnership is what allows love to thrive. She believes a healthy relationship doesn’t require two people to merge into one, but rather to coexist with mutual respect and personal freedom.
Why Marriage Was Never Necessary
Hawn and Russell, 74, have long faced questions about why they never walked down the aisle. But the actress makes it clear that time has already answered that question.
“Even if we did get married, it wouldn’t make any difference,” Hawn says. “It’s been 42 years.”
Russell previously echoed the same sentiment, revealing that both of them along with their children saw no reason to change what was already working.
Respect, Attraction, and Real Love
When asked why she continues to choose Russell year after year, Hawn doesn’t hesitate.
“I respect him,” she says. “He’s an amazing person.”
She also emphasizes the importance of physical attraction, even in long-term relationships — a topic she discusses candidly.
“I’m very sexually attracted to him,” she admits. “That matters. A long-term sexual relationship is healthy. He’s my sexual object.”
Beyond attraction, Hawn praises Russell’s intelligence, talent, and enduring charm. She describes him as a devoted father figure, a gifted actor, and someone who remains handsome and magnetic even decades into their relationship.
A Happy Not Perfect Family
While Hawn acknowledges that no relationship is flawless, she believes their family bond is deeply strong.
“We’re an unbelievably happy family most of the time,” she says with a laugh. “There’s a cohesiveness. Why would I want someone perfect? There’s no such thing.”
When to Watch the Full Interview
The complete episode of The Dan Buettner Podcast, produced by Andrew Zimmern’s Intuitive Content and distributed by Lemonada Media, will be available Thursday, January 22 at 10 a.m. PT on YouTube and major podcast platforms.