AceShowbiz - Denzel Washington and his wife Pauletta have been a beacon of hope and inspiration for couples for over four decades. At the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival premiere of their son Malcolm Washington's feature directing debut "The Piano Lesson", the couple proudly shared their insights into their long-lasting relationship.

"There is no secret" to their successful marriage, said Pauletta, 73. "But there is a strong connection." She added to PEOPLE, "We work at it. It's work. There are a lot of prayers for strength for staying in a forgiveness mode." She further emphasized, "But it's the basic love that we have for each other."

The couple met on the set of Denzel's first movie, 1977's "Wilma", but it wasn't until months later that they finally connected. Six years later, in June 1983, they tied the knot and have since welcomed four children, John David, 40, Katia, 37, and twins Malcolm and Olivia, 33.

As they celebrated their son's film premiere at TIFF, they also acknowledged the achievements of their other children. John David starred in the film, while Katia served as a producer. Denzel co-produced it alongside Malcolm, who dedicated the production to his mother.

"It's such a great honor," Pauletta said of the movie. "I broke down when I saw it."

Malcolm, still seeking to unravel the mystery of his parents' enduring love, joked, "I don't know, they love each other, but I don't know what the secret is."

Denzel, beaming with pride at his son's accomplishment, expressed his excitement about their future collaborations. "The Piano Lesson" is set to hit theaters on November 8 and Netflix on November 22.