Leighton Meester has revealed the simple yet relatable secret to her 12-year marriage with actor Adam Brody, emphasizing mutual liking and camaraderie as the foundation of their enduring relationship. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE published on January 24, 2026, the actress highlighted that enjoying each other’s company and maintaining a realistic perspective are key to their marital success.
Meester, 39, shared that the core of her marriage to Brody, 46, revolves around genuine affection and friendship. ‘I think just liking each other, and getting along is a big part of it,’ she told PEOPLE, noting that appreciating each other at a basic level is essential. This down-to-earth approach contrasts with more complex theories about relationship longevity, making her insight accessible to many.
The couple’s journey began on the set of the 2011 film ‘The Oranges,’ where they first met. They made their romance public in February 2013, announced their engagement that November, and married in February 2014. Over the past decade, they have built a life together that blends personal and professional spheres seamlessly.
Meester and Brody are parents to two children: a daughter named Arlo, born in 2015, and a son, whose name they have kept private, born in 2020. Their family life is complemented by collaborative work on various projects, demonstrating their strong partnership both on and off screen.
Professionally, the duo has starred together in films such as ‘River Wild’ and ‘Life Partners,’ as well as television series including ‘Nobody Wants This’ and ‘Good Cop/Bad Cop.’ Brody’s performance in ‘Nobody Wants This’ earned him a Critics Choice Award in 2025, where he publicly thanked Meester in his acceptance speech, calling her his ‘darling’ and expressing deep gratitude for their shared life.
In the interview, Meester stressed the importance of realism in their relationship. ‘I think being with another person and knowing that they’re going to be imperfect and challenge you, and that you are far from perfect, is important,’ she said, adding that being open to self-improvement is crucial. This mindset has helped them navigate the challenges of a long-term partnership in the public eye.
Both actors rose to fame in teen dramas—Meester on ‘Gossip Girl’ and Brody on ‘The O.C.’—but have since cultivated a stable, low-key marriage that defies Hollywood stereotypes. Their ability to work together on projects while maintaining a healthy personal dynamic showcases their compatibility and mutual respect.
As they continue to balance careers and family, Meester’s revelation offers a refreshing perspective on marital success, resonating with fans for its simplicity and authenticity. Their story underscores that even in the entertainment industry, lasting relationships can thrive on fundamental elements like friendship, respect, and a willingness to grow together.
