Beyond the silver screen’s spotlight, the sports arena’s cheering crowd, and the political stage’s authoritative roar, lies a quieter, more intimate world for many high-profile individuals – the world of their relationships. Today, we focus on 21 remarkable black power couples whose love stories inspire and teach us the art of ‘forever’.
1. Barack and Michelle Obama
Few couples embody the essence of power and inspiration quite like the Obamas. Meeting at a Chicago law firm in 1989, their love story has been a testament to shared values, mutual respect, and enduring support. Their relationship has weathered the extraordinary pressure of two presidential terms, yet they’ve remained each other’s biggest advocates. Their down-to-earth personalities, combined with their commitment to public service, make them not just a power couple, but role models for many around the globe.
2. Jay-Z and Beyoncé
Superstars in their own rights, Jay-Z and Beyoncé have become a cultural tour de force since they began dating in the early 2000s. Despite intense media scrutiny, they have managed to keep much of their relationship private. Their story is one of collaboration and mutual success, with both contributing significantly to the music industry and leveraging their influence to advocate for social causes. Through their highs and lows, their bond continues to influence pop culture and redefine the power couple for a new generation.
ith | Kevin Winter/Getty Images
3. Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith
With a relationship spanning over two decades in the public eye, Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith’s relationship has often been hailed as one of Hollywood’s most enduring. They’ve navigated the challenges of fame, raising a family in the spotlight, and personal trials with a candidness that has endeared them to many. Their honesty, particularly on their web television talk show “Red Table Talk”, has allowed for broader public discussions about love, family, and personal growth.
4. Oprah Winfrey and Stedman Graham
One of the longest-lasting couples on this list, Oprah Winfrey and Stedman Graham, have been together since 1986. Despite having hugely successful careers individually – Winfrey as a media mogul and Graham as an educator, author, and businessman – they’ve managed to maintain a low-key and private relationship. They have defied traditional expectations, choosing not to marry, but their commitment to each other has never wavered. Their relationship exemplifies that love and commitment can flourish outside societal norms.
5. Denzel and Pauletta Washington
Denzel and Pauletta Washington’s relationship, which has spanned over four decades, stands as a beacon of longevity in an industry often characterized by fleeting relationships. Meeting on the set of a television film, they married in 1983 and have four children together. They credit their lasting relationship to their faith, mutual respect, and love for each other. Denzel once famously said about his wife, “A wise woman knows the importance of speaking life into her man. If you love him; believe in him, encourage him and be his peace”. Their enduring love story continues to inspire.
6. Lebron and Savannah James
NBA superstar Lebron James married his high school sweetheart, Savannah, in 2013. Together, they have three children and have demonstrated strength, resilience, and commitment to their family and community. Savannah is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, and together they’ve established the LeBron James Family Foundation that benefits children and young adults through education and co-curricular educational initiatives.
7. Morris Chestnut and Pam Byse
Actor Morris Chestnut, known for his roles in movies like “Boyz n the Hood” and “The Best Man,” has been married to Pam Byse since 1995. They’ve managed to keep their relationship largely out of the spotlight, focusing instead on building a strong family foundation for their two children. Their enduring marriage is a testament to the power of privacy and commitment in the often tumultuous world of Hollywood.
8. Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance
The love story of Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance, two of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors, began at Yale School of Drama. Though they didn’t immediately fall in love, fate had a different plan. After reuniting in Los Angeles years later, they began dating and married in 1997. They have a shared understanding of the industry’s pressures, which has been a key to their resilient bond. Together, they’ve navigated their careers while raising twin children and maintaining a sense of normalcy within their family life. Their relationship stands as a testament to the power of timing, love, and mutual respect.
9. Russell Wilson and Ciara
Grammy-winning singer Ciara and Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson are the epitome of a modern-day fairytale romance. They began dating in 2015, following Ciara’s public breakup with rapper Future. The pair made headlines with their vow to abstain from sex until marriage, demonstrating their commitment to their shared values. Since tying the knot in 2016, their blended family, which includes Ciara’s son from her previous relationship and two children they’ve had together, is often at the center of their loving social media posts. As a couple, they are not shy about expressing their love and admiration for each other, continually serving as a testament to the power of second chances at love and the beauty of blended families.
10. Samuel L. Jackson and LaTanya Richardson
One of Hollywood’s most enduring couples, Samuel L. Jackson and LaTanya Richardson have been married since 1980. With a marriage spanning over 40 years, they’ve seen it all – career ups and downs, the challenges of raising a child, and even Jackson’s struggle with addiction. Yet, through all the trials and tribulations, their love has never wavered. Both continue to support each other’s careers while maintaining a strong family unit. This powerhouse couple is proof that true love can stand the test of time.
11. Steve and Marjorie Harvey
Comedian, television host, and best-selling author Steve Harvey married Marjorie Elaine Harvey in 2007, and they’ve been inseparable ever since. Marjorie, a fashion aficionado, is often credited with upgrading Steve’s style. Together, they’re a blended family of seven children, and they’ve demonstrated that love and understanding can overcome any challenge. Steve often refers to Marjorie as his “rock,” and their relationship illustrates the power of support and mutual respect. They both continue to thrive in their respective careers and philanthropic endeavours while being each other’s biggest cheerleaders. Their partnership is not just about romantic love but also friendship, mutual respect, and shared visions.
12. Magic and Cookie Johnson
A basketball legend and a woman of immense strength, Earvin “Magic” Johnson and his wife Cookie have been together for over four decades. Their love story began in college and has weathered many storms, including Magic’s shocking HIV diagnosis in 1991. Cookie has stood by Magic’s side through it all, showcasing the power of unyielding commitment and love. The couple has been an inspiration, advocating for HIV/AIDS awareness and serving as role models for long-lasting relationships. Their bond extends beyond their love story. Together, they have built a business empire, Magic Johnson Enterprises, focusing on providing high-quality services to ethnically diverse urban communities across the United States. They have two children, EJ and Elisa, and their family represents the epitome of unity, resilience, and enduring love.
13. Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee
Legendary director Spike Lee and producer, writer, and entrepreneur Tonya Lewis Lee have been a steadfast couple in Hollywood since 1993. Together, they have produced films, launched a production company, and raised two children. Spike’s prolific career has spanned decades and genres, but behind the scenes, Tonya has been a force in her own right. She’s the founder of Movita Organics, a health and wellness company, and has produced several acclaimed films and documentaries. Their longstanding marriage is a testament to the power of shared passion, mutual respect, and love. They’ve supported each other’s careers while still carving out their own niches in the industry, all while raising a family and advocating for the causes they believe in.
14. Viola Davis and Julius Tennon
Oscar winner Viola Davis and actor-producer Julius Tennon have been married since 2003. They’ve combined their passion for acting and storytelling to create JuVee Productions, a multimedia production company dedicated to giving a platform to underrepresented voices. Their strength lies in their mutual respect and shared desire to effect positive change through their work.
15. Gabrielle Union and Dwayne Wade
Gabrielle Union, an accomplished actress, and Dwayne Wade, a former professional basketball player, showcase a partnership that speaks volumes about love, understanding, and acceptance. They’ve been together since 2009 and tied the knot in 2014. Their journey hasn’t been without challenges, including health issues and the complexities of blending a family. However, they’ve faced these difficulties head-on, demonstrating a commendable level of maturity and respect for each other. They’ve openly shared their experiences with infertility and surrogacy, bringing awareness to issues often stigmatized. They are also renowned for their unwavering support of their children, notably Zaya, who publicly came out as transgender in 2020. Their unconditional love and advocacy for their children’s individuality exemplify their strength as a couple and as parents.
16. John Legend and Chrissy Teigen
This couple is loved for their authenticity, humor, and their unwavering support of one another. John Legend, EGOT-winning musician, and Chrissy Teigen, model, cookbook author, and TV personality, have become one of the most admired couples in Hollywood. They’ve faced hardships together, including the devastating loss of their son Jack, showing their strength and deep love for one another in times of adversity. Their loving relationship and their efforts to raise their children, Luna and Miles, in a joyful and inclusive environment make them truly inspirational.
17. Rev Run and Justine Simmons
Known for their appearances in “Run’s House” and “All About The Washingtons,” Rev Run (Joseph Simmons of Run-D.M.C.) and Justine Simmons have been married since 1994. Despite the heartbreak of losing their newborn daughter, Victoria Anne Simmons, the couple’s faith in God and commitment to each other kept them strong. They have shown that through faith and love, a couple can endure anything.
18. Sterling K. Brown and Ryan Michelle Bathe
This acting duo has been together since their college days at Stanford University, proving that enduring love is possible in Hollywood. They’ve both had successful careers, with Brown winning two Emmys for his roles in “This Is Us” and “The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story,” and Bathe starring in popular series such as “First Wives Club” and “All Rise.” Their love story demonstrates the importance of mutual support and respect in maintaining a healthy and happy relationship.
19. Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz
Grammy award-winning artist Alicia Keys and music producer Swizz Beatz (Kasseem Dean) have been together since 2008, and their relationship is a testament to the power of creative synergy and mutual respect. They’re both incredibly successful in their careers, yet they always make time for each other and their two sons, Egypt and Genesis. They’ve been open about the work it takes to maintain a successful marriage, inspiring many with their honesty and dedication to their family.
20. Al Roker and Deborah Roberts
Al Roker and Deborah Roberts are another shining example of enduring love in the world of broadcast journalism. Roker, a weather forecaster and television personality, and Roberts, a successful reporter for ABC, have been married since 1995. Balancing their demanding careers with raising their three children, the couple has showcased a mutual respect and unwavering support for each other’s professional pursuits. In a world where their lives are on public display, they’ve managed to maintain a strong, grounded relationship, attributing their success to open communication, understanding, and, most importantly, love.
21. Robert Burton and Jeannette Reyes
Another testament to love thriving amidst the bustle of journalism, Robert Burton and Jeannette Reyes are an inspiring duo. Both hailing from ABC’s news team, Burton as a sports anchor and Reyes as a reporter, the couple tied the knot in 2018. Their playful banter and shared love for their work make them one of the most charismatic couples in the industry. Being in the same profession, they have a unique understanding of the pressures and demands of each other’s jobs. Despite the challenging and often erratic schedule of news reporting, they always find time for each other, proving that love and dedication are the ultimate anchors in a relationship.
