Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey has revealed an intimate but surprisingly simple secret that he believes has kept his marriage to Camila Alves strong for more than 13 years — and it all comes down to their choice of bed.
The 55-year-old Hollywood star, best known for Interstellar and Dallas Buyers Club, recently released a new book titled Poems & Prayers, where he reflects on life, love, faith, and family. Among his personal insights, one piece of marriage advice has caught the attention of fans worldwide.
Why McConaughey Downsized His Bed
In the book, McConaughey writes:
“The best thing you can do for your marriage. One way to surely get ahead, is get rid of that king-size mattress, and sleep in a queen-size bed.”
The advice may sound unusual, but for McConaughey and Alves, switching from a king-size to a queen-size bed made all the difference. Speaking with Fox News, the actor explained how the change brought them physically and emotionally closer.
“We have kids and we go to our friend’s house and he has one of these double king-size beds,” McConaughey said. “The wife’s on one side with her side table and the husband’s on the other side. I woke up one morning, looked over, and Camila was like a football field away.”
What should have been a cozy cuddle turned into a marathon effort across the bed. Realizing how disconnected it made them feel, the couple decided to downsize.
“You’re like, man, this damn king-size bed is not good for the marriage. So we got a queen size where we’re shoulder to shoulder. I’m telling you, it’s good for your marriage,” McConaughey said.
Making Space for Each Other
The actor also joked that the smaller bed left no room for their children — Levi, Vida, and Livingston — to climb in, creating a private sanctuary for just him and his wife.
Married in 2012, the couple chose to raise their family in Texas instead of Hollywood, a decision that McConaughey says helped them prioritize family life while still nurturing their relationship as husband and wife.
“You’ve got kids, but you also gotta make sure this is your time as a couple,” he explained. “One of the best examples you can give your kids is showing them how their parents treat each other.”
For McConaughey, this philosophy of intimacy, respect, and togetherness has become the foundation of a lasting marriage.
Comments are closed.