Javier Bardem was honored with the Donostia Lifetime Achievement Award at the San Sebastian Film Festival in Spain in September 2019. During his acceptance speech, Bardem emotionally thanked his wife, Penelope Cruz, whom he married in 2010. He expressed his deep gratitude for her as a person and for everything she does in their lives and the lives of others. Cruz, who was in the audience, blew kisses in response to Bardem’s heartfelt words. The couple first met on the set of the Spanish film “Jamón, Jamón” in 1992 when Cruz was just 16, and they began dating in 2007 after working on “Vicky Cristina Barcelona.” They have two children together, Leo and Luna.
Bardem spoke about the chemistry between him and Cruz during the filming of “Jamón, Jamón,” describing it as a document of their passion. He joked about showing the film to their kids one day as a celebration of their existence. Despite their early connection, the couple chose to keep their relationship private and quietly tied the knot in the Bahamas in 2010. Cruz, in particular, has spoken out about their decision to keep their marriage and family life out of the public eye, stating that it would feel strange to discuss their relationship publicly. Bardem also commented on how their lives changed after having children, emphasizing that family is their priority and that they work together to balance their professional and personal lives.
The couple’s decision to keep details about their marriage and family private stems from their desire for a sense of normalcy despite their fame. Bardem and Cruz have maintained a relatively low profile over the years, only occasionally sharing insights into their relationship and family life. Bardem, in particular, emphasized the importance of not confusing fiction with reality, acknowledging that their work in the entertainment industry is separate from their personal lives. With two decades of history together, Bardem and Cruz have navigated the challenges of balancing their careers with family life, always putting their children’s needs first.
Despite their successful careers in Hollywood, Bardem and Cruz have made a conscious effort to shield their children from the spotlight, choosing to prioritize their privacy and well-being. The couple’s dedication to keeping their family life private has allowed them to create a sense of normalcy for their children away from the public eye. Bardem and Cruz’s commitment to their family values and maintaining a strong, private relationship has enabled them to navigate the challenges of fame while prioritizing their roles as parents. As they continue to build their family together, Bardem and Cruz remain steadfast in their commitment to each other and their children, creating a loving and supportive environment for their family to thrive.
