Celebrity

Paul Newman’s Naughty Letters To Joanne Woodward

Melissa Newman has written a new book, ‘Head Over Heels: Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman – A Love Affair in Words and Pictures.’

Joseph Adeyinka

Published October 23, 2023

Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward had one of Hollywood’s most enviable marriages. They met in 1953 during the Broadway play “Picnic,” where Newman was married with three children and Woodward was dating someone else. However, their undeniable chemistry led to Newman eventually divorcing his first wife, Jackie Witte. They finally tied the knot on January 29, 1958, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Despite facing hardships together, including Newman’s son’s death from a drug overdose, the couple’s love continued to flourish.

Paul Newman had written naughty letters to Woodward, which were discovered by their daughter, Nell while going through her parent’s belongings.

Paul Newman's Naughty Letters To Joanne Woodward — Getty Images

Per Fox News, Nell decided not to include the letters in her book about her parents, stating, “I can’t put this in the book.” Newman and Woodward’s love story is not only fascinating but also inspiring. They both had successful acting careers in Hollywood, with Newman starring in acclaimed films like “The Hustler” and “Cool Hand Luke” and Woodward winning an Oscar for “The Three Faces of Eve.” They also worked together in several films, with Newman directing Woodward in “Rachel, Rachel” and “The Glass Menagerie.”

Newman even won an Oscar for his role in “The Color of Money,” which was directed by Martin Scorsese and starred both Newman and Woodward. Their relationship was not just limited to Hollywood. They were both actively involved in liberal politics and various charitable organizations. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary before Newman’s death from lung cancer in 2008. Despite living most of their married life in the public eye, Newman and Woodward managed to keep their love life private and their family life simple. Their love story has been the subject of many documentaries, including “Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward: A Lifetime of Love,” which aired on PBS in 2008.

The documentary showcased rare home movies and interviews with family and friends, providing an intimate look at their life together. In 2010, “Paul Newman: The Memoir,” written by Shawn Levy, was published. The book provided an in-depth look at Newman’s life and career and his relationship with Woodward. It also uncovered some of Newman’s secrets, including his struggle with alcoholism and his extramarital affairs while married to Woodward. So far, Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward’s love story is one that will continue to inspire future generations.

FAQs

How did Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward meet?

They met in 1953 during the Broadway play “Picnic,” where Newman was married with three children, and Woodward was dating someone else.

Were there any documentaries made on Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward’s love story?

Yes, there have been many documentaries made on their love story, including “Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward: A Lifetime of Love,” which aired on PBS in 2008.

Was there a book published on Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward’s life together?

Yes, “Paul Newman: The Memoir,” written by Shawn Levy, was published in 2010. It provided an in-depth look at Newman’s life and career and his relationship with Woodward.