For the last 35 years (yes, 35 years!) award-winning actor and director Denzel Washington and his wife, actress Pauletta Washington’s marriage has not only served as one of Hollywood’s longest lasting relationships but has also been one of the most successful marriages in the black community.

It has served as one of the best examples of black love next to President Obama and First Lady Michelle’s romance. No matter how many rumors come year after year trying to shatter the couple’s positive image, they continue to celebrate their love with class and grace.

Here is their story of Black love while sharing wisdom from their journey with us all.

Denzel and Pauletta met in 1977 while the actor was filming his first TV role in Wilma – which she was also starring in.

“I don’t know if it’s show business that has a monopoly on divorce, it’s just that you hear about it,” explained Denzel. “I just think that you have to work at it. Not give up on each other. It’s a commitment. It’s not all the honeymoon, it doesn’t last forever, so you work at it. And hopefully you’re good friends first, that might help!”

When speaking about his wife on a recent episode of the T.D. Jakes Show, Denzel can’t stop complimenting his better half.

“She has done the heavy lifting. She has been the consistent one. She has given the daily religious instruction. She was the one taking them to school, while I was out providing.”

“I grew up in athletics, but my wife’s family had a great education. My wife was a child prodigy. I married up! Her family had a love and a closeness that I didn’t have. I came from a broken home and I said I have to have that.”

Washington and Pearson met on the set of the television film Wilma, and married in June 1983. The couple have four children together — 30-year-old son John David, 27-year-old daughter Katia and 13-year-old twins Olivia and Malcolm.

In 1995, they renewed their wedding vows in South Africa with Archbishop Desmond Tutu officiating.

Throughout the years, Pauletta has stood by her husband’s side no matter what the rumors or the fact that scores of women were trying to get to her man. It’s who she feels, believes and knows who she is to him that keeps the peace.