LeBron James is keeping it real about his marriage to Savannah James, saying their relationship has had its share of challenges despite the public perception.
The 40-year-old Lakers star admitted, “I’m gonna be honest, a relationship is never picture perfect.” He added that while couples may appear “perfect” from the outside, that’s rarely the case, speaking on 360 with Speedy.
“If you’re okay with working through the hardships and the adverse moments, then it will make it all worth it,” LeBron said. “We’ve been together since high school, so, s–t ain’t always gonna be a bed of roses, in any relationship, let alone someone you’re living with for over 20 years.”
The couple, who married in 2013 in San Diego, recently celebrated their 12th anniversary. LeBron marked the occasion on Instagram with a heartfelt message: “Happy anniversary my beautiful. I love you mama.”
When asked what makes his marriage work, LeBron didn’t hesitate.
“Communication,” he said, calling it the number one priority. “Being honest is number two, and number three is, like, you have to be okay with being uncomfortable in relationships sometimes and you can’t always have it your way, it’s not gonna work that way.”
He also joked about a phrase many couples know well. “Happy wife, happy life is real,” he laughed, before podcast host Speedy Morman chimed in with, “Happy husband, happy loving.”
LeBron and Savannah, both 39, share three children together: 20-year-old Bronny, 18-year-old Bryce, and 10-year-old Zhuri. Despite his global fame, the four-time NBA champion has always credited Savannah for grounding him.
Previously, LeBron admitted he was “scared” to be a father due to his nonexistent relationship with his own dad. “I had no idea how I was going to be,” he said in a 2022 Beats by Dre campaign. But through “patience, commitment [and] joy” learned from sports, he has built a family life he calls his greatest accomplishment.
READ MORE: Lakers Lock In JJ Redick With Extension