Rhea Perlman is not only known for her successful acting career but also for her personal life, which has been intertwined with her professional journey. Her marriage to actor Danny DeVito and her family dynamics have been a significant part of her life story. This article explores Perlman's personal life, focusing on her relationships and family.
Meeting Danny DeVito and Early Relationship
Rhea Perlman met Danny DeVito on January 17, 1971, when she attended a performance of the play The Shrinking
Bride, which featured DeVito. The connection was immediate, and they moved in together just two weeks after meeting. Their relationship blossomed, leading to their marriage on January 28, 1982.
The couple has three children: Lucy Chet DeVito, Grace Fan DeVito, and Jacob Daniel DeVito. Despite their different religious backgrounds—Perlman being Jewish and DeVito raised Catholic—they raised their children celebrating major holidays from both religions. Perlman emphasized the importance of bringing up their children to be good people rather than imposing a specific religious identity.
Family Life and Career Intersections
Throughout their marriage, Perlman and DeVito have collaborated professionally, acting alongside each other in the television show Taxi and the film Matilda. Their partnership extended beyond their personal life, showcasing their chemistry and mutual respect in their work.
Perlman's family life also includes her sister Heide Perlman, a television writer and producer who worked on shows like Cheers and Frasier. Her father, Philip Perlman, transitioned to a career as a character actor, appearing in several films and television shows, including Cheers.
Separation and Continued Friendship
In October 2012, Perlman and DeVito separated after 30 years of marriage. However, they reconciled in March 2013, only to separate again in March 2017. Despite their separation, Perlman stated that she has no intention of divorcing DeVito. In 2019, she revealed that they have become closer friends after their separation than they were in their final years as a couple.
The family resided in Beverly Hills, California, and owned a vacation home in Interlaken, New Jersey. Perlman's personal life reflects her ability to maintain strong family ties and friendships, even amidst changes in her marital status.
Rhea Perlman's personal life is a testament to her resilience and ability to balance her career with her family relationships. Her enduring friendship with DeVito and her commitment to her children highlight the importance of family in her life.
