Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, two rock legends who have been together for more than four decades, continue to share a strong and lasting bond.
The couple, known for their iconic music careers, recently opened up about the secrets to their successful marriage during WhyHunger’s 50th Anniversary Chapin Awards Gala in New York City.
The Early Days of Their Relationship
Benatar and Giraldo first crossed paths in 1979, leading to both a professional and personal partnership. Giraldo became Benatar’s lead guitarist, and their chemistry on and off stage eventually led to their marriage in 1982.
Over the years, they have not only built a remarkable music career together, but they also welcomed two daughters—Haley, 40, and Hana, 31—and became grandparents to Stevie, Lola, and Cash.
The Secrets to a Long-Lasting Marriage
When asked about the key to their enduring relationship, Giraldo, 69, jokingly said, “A marriage rule? What, you’re always right? Yeah, that used to be a thing, but we don’t do that anymore.” Benatar, 72, responded with a laugh, “But it worked for so long.”
In addition to keeping humor alive, the couple shared more practical advice for maintaining a strong relationship. “We never go to bed angry,” Benatar emphasized.
Giraldo added, “We’ve learned how to be quiet and still be in the same room together and not have to talk to one another, and that’s good.” This ability to coexist peacefully, even in silence, is one of their relationship’s pillars.
Giving Each Other Space
The couple also discussed how they manage to give each other space despite spending so much time together. “We’re together 24/7, and we know how to give each other space in the same space,” Benatar said. Giraldo chimed in, “Other than that, I have no idea. I mean, we’ll make stuff up if we want.”
Their ability to balance personal and professional life has contributed to their successful partnership both on and off the stage.
Career Highlights and Future Plans
Benatar and Giraldo are four-time Grammy winners, with 36 million albums sold worldwide. Their musical journey continues, as they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
Despite ending a recent concert series, the couple is set to hit the road again as special guests on Bryan Adams’ Roll with the Punches Tour.
Benatar shared her thoughts on being back on stage: “It’s like breathing. Kind of pack the bags and go, you know?” She added, “We play so much, so it’s not that we’re just going to take a couple of months off, and it’s just, like, a reset. We just do it again, that’s all.”
Giraldo, on the other hand, expressed his excitement for the live shows but with a twist: “I hate rehearsing. I really hate rehearsing. I just want to go out and play — whatever happens, happens in real time. Be in the moment. … You know, be real.”
Benatar, however, is the opposite: “I just want to rehearse for three months,” she said with a smile.
Advocacy and Giving Back
In addition to their music career, Benatar and Giraldo were recognized for their philanthropic efforts. During the WhyHunger event, the couple was honored with the ASCAP Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award for their ongoing advocacy to end hunger and address its root causes.
Their work with the nonprofit highlights their deep commitment to social causes beyond music.
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo’s love story is one for the ages. After more than 40 years together, their marriage continues to thrive, with humor, mutual respect, and a shared passion for music and advocacy.
Whether on stage or at home, their love and partnership serve as an inspiring example for all.
