‘Boy Meets World’ Star Shares Shocking Secret to 75-Year Marriage

William Daniels and Bonnie Bartlett met while studying acting at Northwestern University and married in 1951. They’ll celebrate their 75th wedding anniversary in 2026. Their marriage has lasted nearly as long as the average American’s life. William, now 99, and Bonnie, 96, raised two sons, and both had incredible careers. They have the longest-recorded active marriage in Hollywood history, something the pair surprisingly credits to an open marriage.

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Bonnie Bartlett explained to Daily Mail that she and William Daniels love each other very much, but they also understand being human.

“There was never any discussion as to what we were going to do, but in 75 years, the two of you together, you know, it would be abnormal if you… weren’t attracted occasionally to other people,” Bonnie said.

Bonnie admitted that she and he husband each explored outside their marriage vows, but that was a long time ago, and they always wound up back in each other’s arms.

“Our lives just went on, but we never got unhinged,” she said. “We never got unhinged, but our lives did go in different directions occasionally.”

Bonnie Bartlett and William Daniels realize that time is fleeting, and they pair love spending the years together. But their age is beginning to show.

“Physically, you know, we’re a little bit, hampered, I guess? My vision isn’t good and… I can walk, I mean, I can walk,” Bonnie said. “Bill has trouble, some trouble walking, and his memory isn’t as good as mine, but we’re fine, and we’re happy, and we have this wonderful family of ours right near us.”

Of course, after 75 years, there has to be some advice to share. When asked about how to have a long and successful  marriage, William Daniels made Bonnie Bartlett laugh when he said, “’Don’t.”

This story’s featured image is by Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images