Actor Danny DeVito and his ex-wife, actress Rhea Perlman, remain on good terms and have no plans to legally end their marriage [1].
Their unconventional arrangement challenges traditional views of divorce and separation in the public eye, demonstrating a commitment to family stability over legal formality.
DeVito said the pair continues to communicate daily and frequently meet for meals. He said that they often spend time together at Perlman's home [3]. This close relationship has persisted for nine years following their separation [1].
Reports on the exact timing of the split vary, with some sources citing the separation occurred in 2012 [1] and others stating it happened in 2013 [2]. Despite the lapse of time, DeVito said, "We have no plans to legally end our marriage" [2].
The actors share three children: Lucy, 43; Grace, 41; and Jacob, 38 [4]. Both DeVito and Perlman said they value their family connection as a primary reason for maintaining their current status.
DeVito said, "We talk to each other every day" [1]. He said, "We’re always over at her house" [3]. The couple has avoided the legal process of divorce, choosing instead to navigate their separation through a supportive friendship.
“"We have no plans to legally end our marriage."”
The decision by DeVito and Perlman to avoid legal divorce despite a decade-long separation reflects a growing trend of 'conscious uncoupling' or non-traditional partnership structures. By prioritizing the emotional and familial bond over legal status, the couple maintains a kinship network that provides stability for their adult children while allowing for individual autonomy.
