Many Hollywood celebrities have formed deep, enduring friendships that have lasted for decades, transcending the pressures and challenges of fame. Some of these friendships have become legendary, with stars supporting each other both personally and professionally. Here are a few examples of Hollywood celebrities who were the best of friends over many decades:
1. Kirk Douglas and Burt Lancaster
How They Met: Kirk Douglas and Burt Lancaster first met in the early 1940s and quickly became one of Hollywood's most iconic duos. They starred together in several films, most notably in Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957) and Seven Days in May (1964).
Their Friendship: Their friendship lasted for over 50 years, and their professional collaboration helped both of their careers thrive. They were known to be deeply supportive of each other, both in and out of the spotlight. Lancaster was known for being a mentor to Douglas early in their careers, and Douglas, in turn, praised Lancaster’s acting prowess. Even later in life, they remained close until Lancaster’s death in 1994.
2. Lucille Ball and Vivian Vance
How They Met: Lucille Ball and Vivian Vance were best known for their roles as Lucy Ricardo and Ethel Mertz on the classic sitcom I Love Lucy (1951–1957). The two women developed a strong bond while working together on the show.
Their Friendship: Though there were reports of tension on set due to their different personalities, in private, they were very close friends. Ball was a supportive and protective friend to Vance, especially during challenging times in her personal life. Their friendship lasted beyond the show, with Vance often supporting Ball in her later projects, including Ball’s venture into the production side of television.
3. Matt Damon and Ben Affleck
How They Met: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck met as children in Boston and formed a close friendship during their early years. Their friendship became public when they co-wrote and starred in Good Will Hunting (1997), which won them an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Their Friendship: Their friendship has stood the test of time, with both supporting each other through personal and professional ups and downs. They’ve remained close throughout their careers, often collaborating on film projects, such as The Last Duel (2021) and other production ventures through their company, Pearl Street Films.
4. Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell
How They Met: Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell met in 1966 on the set of The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band. However, it wasn’t until 1983, when they worked together on Swing Shift, that their romantic relationship began, which turned into a long-lasting partnership.
Their Friendship: Beyond their romantic relationship, Hawn and Russell have enjoyed a deep friendship that has lasted for decades. They’ve been together for over 40 years but never married, preferring to keep their relationship based on mutual respect and love. Both are known for their down-to-earth nature and have always maintained a supportive, grounded bond.
5. George Clooney and Brad Pitt