Dolph Lundgren recently opened up about what he considers the “secret” to maintaining a happy marriage.
The Swedish-born actor, recognized for roles in films like Rocky IV, Creed II, and The Expendables, became a US citizen last year alongside his wife, Emma Krokdal.
Lundgren and Krokdal, who is nearly four decades younger than him, tied the knot in 2023. This is Lundgren’s second marriage; he was previously married to Anette Qviberg for almost two decades.
Despite the newness of his marriage to Krokdal, Lundgren shared what he believes keeps their relationship strong.
Speaking to Fox News, he said: “I have this new rule: I make sure to give her a big hug—ten times a day.”
“I try to get a few in before lunch,” he joked. “That way I still have some left for the rest of the day. It might sound silly, but it really helps prevent a lot of arguments and misunderstandings. Plus, it makes us both feel good. That’s my latest strategy.”
He added: “When there’s a disagreement, both people usually want to be right. But it’s important to make your partner feel good, even when you don’t see eye to eye. That old saying, ‘happy wife, happy life,’ is true. Respect and compliment each other.”
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The pair have been married since 2023.
Meanwhile, Robert Downey Jr. and his wife Susan, who have been together for over 20 years, rely on what they call their “two-week rule.”
The Iron Man actor, married to Susan since 2003, shares two children with her: Exton (born in 2012) and Avri (born in 2014). Downey also has an adult son, Indio, from a previous marriage.
Susan Downey explained to PEOPLE that their rule is simple: they never go more than two weeks without seeing each other or being together as a family. “Sometimes even two weeks feels too long, but we make it work,” she said.
She also mentioned that, as a producer, her job allows her more flexibility to travel and be with her family, compared to her husband’s work in front of the camera.
“Luckily, my role as a producer means I can be a little more flexible about where I need to be,” Susan explained.