Sir Brian May, the legendary Queen guitarist, and his wife Anita Dobson have been married for 26 years, but they openly admit their relationship is often 'hard work'. The couple, who first met in 1986, credit their 'massive arguments' as the reason they have stayed together.
Tempestuous dynamic keeps them together
Appearing on Loose Women, Sir Brian said: 'I have a massive respect for my wife. She's an extraordinary actress and she's a lot of other things in the house that I don't even want to go into. I'm so proud of her.' He added: 'We do have massive arguments. But it's because we care. And little things and insignificant things can blow up. Your partner knows your buttons to press and I'm not usually quick to blow up, but Anita, she can get me.'
Anita Dobson, who turns 79 on Sunday, 19 July, echoed his sentiments: 'I think things only work because you want them to work and want to be with him. So that's the whole reason we're still together.'
Freddie Mercury doubted their union
The couple revealed that many people warned them 'it would never last' due to both being 'too volatile'. Among the doubters was Sir Brian's late bandmate Freddie Mercury. The couple met 40 years ago, and Sir Brian later produced Anita's 1987 single 'Talking of Love'. They tied the knot in 2000 at an intimate London ceremony.
In a separate interview with Yours magazine, Anita candidly described their marriage as 'hard' and 'infuriating' at times. She said: 'That's not to say that everything's been smooth sailing every day - there's no magic potion for a perfect marriage. It can be hard work. Even though Brian's the love of my life and he's absolutely adorable, it's not easy and we have to work at it.'
Compromise and independence
Anita noted that compromise is key: 'We do have to make compromises. I've had to give up a little bit of my independence, but because Brian loves me, he allows me to be me and that's the trick. It's hard sometimes, though, because allowing the person to be themselves can be pretty infuriating!'
The couple's enduring bond, despite the challenges, serves as a testament to their commitment. As Sir Brian put it, their arguments stem from caring deeply, and that passion is what keeps their relationship alive.
