Oscar-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow has opened up about experiencing a profound sense of loneliness during the Christmas period, a feeling that persists even when she is surrounded by her family.
A House Divided at Christmas
The 53-year-old star of Iron Man laid bare the festive friction in her home during a recent episode of her Goop podcast. She revealed that her husband, television producer and writer Brad Falchuk, 54, is a self-confessed 'Grinch' who actively dislikes almost every hallmark of the holiday season she cherishes.
'Brad is the worst,' Paltrow admitted candidly. 'He hates Christmas music, he hates Christmas decorations, he hates roast turkey, the traditional dinner.' When pressed on whether her husband anticipated any aspect of the festivities, her reply was blunt: 'No! Well, he looks forward to it being over.'
Maintaining Traditions Amidst Aversion
Despite her partner's disdain, Paltrow is determined to uphold her cherished customs. 'I love decorating, and we have a traditional menu that we do every year,' she explained. Her culinary centrepiece is always Martha Stewart's recipe for a perfect roast turkey, accompanied by family recipes for stuffing and sweet potatoes.
While the family celebrated in Italy last year, Paltrow insisted on staying home in Los Angeles this festive season. 'Being home for the holidays is so important to me,' she said, describing her ideal day as one spent in pyjamas until the afternoon, followed by a walk and a dressed-up dinner—a tradition her daughter Apple, 21, particularly enjoys.
The celebrations extend to Boxing Day, a tradition adopted from their time living in the UK, which she describes as 'another day of glorious gluttony and total relaxation and board games.'
Navigating Holidays in a Blended Family
Paltrow, who shares children Apple and Moses, 19, with her ex-husband Chris Martin, also celebrates Hanukkah, honouring her Jewish heritage from her late father, Bruce Paltrow. She spoke thoughtfully about creating stability for children during what can be a complex time for separated families.
Reflecting on her own 'conscious uncoupling' from Martin in 2016, she recalled continuing to spend Christmas together for their children's sake. Her advice to others in similar situations is to prioritise love and forgiveness, but not at the expense of personal comfort and boundaries.
'I remember back in the day thinking, I'm just going to remember all the best qualities about my ex when we first got divorced,' she shared. 'That was really helpful - to not focus on the reasons why you're not together, but the reasons why you loved the person.'
Ultimately, Paltrow remains the steadfast host of the festivities, a role she prefers. And she enforces one non-negotiable house rule: 'In bed by nine. Always!'
